KEY, a prominent member of the K-pop group SHINee, recently embarked on his first solo tour in the United States, captivating audiences with his performance at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles on December 3, 2023. The concert, part of the KEYLAND: Uncanny Valley series, showcased not only his musical talent but also his unique approach to performance art.
Dressed in an eye-catching ensemble that resembled a suit of armor, KEY opened the show with the grungy pop-punk track “Strange,” immediately establishing a captivating atmosphere. His striking outfit, which included a silver corset and bedazzled shoulder pauldrons, set the tone for a night filled with theatrics and artistry. “Yeah, we all got something to hide,” he sang, hinting at the deeper themes of his performance.
Throughout the concert, KEY emphasized that his elaborate costumes serve a dual purpose. While they are a form of artistic expression, they also function as a strategy for storytelling. “I don’t wear costumes to show my identity. It’s more like strategy,” he explained in an interview with Billboard. He noted that he is not always focused on revealing his true self but rather engaging the audience in a multifaceted narrative.
As the evening progressed, KEY gradually shed layers of his extravagant attire, transitioning into a sparkly football uniform and finally a casual zip-up jacket adorned with playful designs. This evolution reflected his desire to connect with his audience on a more personal level, culminating in the heartfelt performance of “Lavender Love.”
Reflecting on the concert experience, KEY expressed his joy at headlining his first solo show in the U.S. “It was the greatest moment of this year. I had so much fun last night,” he stated. He also noted a distinct energy from the American audience, who were more vocal and expressive compared to fans in other countries.
In deciding the setlist for his U.S. shows, KEY aimed to create a more upbeat atmosphere. He replaced darker songs like “Novacane” and “Trap” with more lively tracks such as “Imagine” and “Glam.” This shift was intentional, as he wanted to leave the audience on a high note.
The concert’s smaller scale compared to his Korean performances presented a unique challenge. KEY opted to bring a live band instead of a larger dance crew, believing this choice would resonate more with U.S. audiences. “The live band was really, really important,” he remarked, emphasizing the authenticity of the musical experience.
As he navigates his career, KEY has been introspective about his journey in the K-pop industry. Having been active for nearly two decades, he has witnessed significant shifts in the landscape. “When I got out of the army, I felt like if fans were there, or work came to me, then I should just keep going,” he explained, acknowledging the unexpected longevity of his career.
With a keen understanding of branding, KEY has adapted to the evolving expectations of the industry. “Now I’m running KEY as a brand,” he stated, acknowledging the importance of social media in shaping public perception. He was among the early adopters of platforms like Instagram, which he used to cultivate his identity as an artist.
In discussing the current state of K-pop, KEY highlighted the emphasis on individuality among idols today. “You have to listen to the agency, of course, and learn from them. Then you develop yourself and your taste,” he advised, noting the balance between agency direction and personal expression.
Despite his success, KEY remains grounded in his artistic vision. He described the challenges of perfectionism, stating, “I know how to negotiate with myself. I want to be perfect, but I’m not chasing it.” This pragmatic view allows him to focus on the creative process rather than solely on outcomes.
The themes of self-reflection and inner conflict are evident in his latest album, HUNTER. He candidly acknowledged the struggle of battling one’s own doubts, a sentiment many can relate to. “Fighting yourself is the hardest thing,” he noted, emphasizing the universal nature of self-doubt.
Looking to the future, KEY expressed a desire to return to the U.S. with SHINee as a group. “I want to. Maybe. I promise we’ll come back,” he said, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the possibility of another U.S. tour.
In conclusion, KEY’s first solo U.S. concert not only showcased his dynamic artistry but also revealed his thoughtful approach to performance and personal branding. As he continues to evolve as an artist, he remains committed to enjoying the journey, stating, “If you enjoy your life, it’s fine.” With his blend of theatricality and authenticity, KEY is poised to leave a lasting impact on the global music scene.
