JAEHYUN Makes Beautiful Return With Single Release “99 Degrees”

Photo: SM Entertainment

After returning from mandatory military service, NCT member and solo artist JAEHYUN has made a seamless reentry into the music scene. He has hosted several solo events and released a new single. JAEHYUN’s music is predominantly in the R&B genre, as shown when he released his debut solo album, J. Each song had R&B characteristics while drawing inspiration from other genres, such as pop and jazz. 

His new release, “99 Degrees,” is a beautiful ballad that thrives in the R&B genre. What distinguishes this track is the careful progression of the instrumentation alongside JAEHYUN's vocals. The song starts with a stunning piano solo. The simple notes are captivating and set the loving tone for the track. “99 Degrees” is in English, and as listeners take in the lyrics, they grasp the track's message. As the track progresses to the first verse and chorus, JAEHYUN conveys, through the lyrics and vocal tone, a yearning for this person’s love and affection. With lyrics like “I carry the torches for when you can’t see in the dark,” and “Hot or cold I’ll always hold the space to be all that you are,” listeners can hear how this ballad is a love story. As the song progresses, the piano accompaniment has expanded to include additional instruments, lending the track a greater dramatic weight. JAEHYUN’s voice has more emotion, and the once-tame vocals listeners heard at the beginning are now stronger, carrying a sense of hunger that carries into the beautiful bridge. The key change during the bridge is accompanied by a strong bass guitar that matches the intensity of JAEHYUN’s voice, and it becomes a part listeners can’t help but rewind to hear over and over again. After such a powerful bridge, the track returns to the calmness of the beginning of the song to end the track. Throughout the song, JAEHYUN tells a breathtaking story about love through his voice and instrumental accompaniment, and as a listener, you get the message from the very beginning.

The deliberate craft behind the song is evident at every stage of its arrangement. The song is musically intricate, and the music video is shot with clear visual intentionality, featuring scenes of JAEHYUN roaming the streets, in a theatre, and driving, showcasing his artistic side. “99 Degrees” is a lovely song and is an exceptional release from JAEHYUN after his long-awaited return.

New ReleaseCidney AtchersonJaehyun, NCTComment