The title track is inspired by his personal experiences of performing abroad
NCT’s Taeyong releases his much-anticipated first mini-album Shalala. Cowritten and composed by the K-pop star, the seven track mini-album is available now on various music sites including iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify and more.
The title track of the mini-album highlights Taeyong’s signature witty rap flow. The hip hop track combines lively percussion and impactful drums that help deliver the song’s key message: ‘We can all shine wherever we are.’
The second track, “Gwando,” is a pop-rock track with contrasting hip hop style drums. The lyrics that touch on the various emotions felt when saying goodbye, and that everyone will eventually be able to move on. The mini-album then transitions into “Move Mood Mode” featuring Wendy, where the lyrics focus on the youthful emotions of being with a lover. The song features a harmony of captivating rap from Taeyong and soothing vocals from Red Velvet’s Wendy.
Tracks on the mini-album also highlight Taeyong’s various personal experiences. In “Virtual Insanity,” he explores what his music would sound like if he were to watch his own concert through VR. “Ruby” is dedicated to his late dog and features a more playful sound. “404 File Not Found” is a medium tempo track about loneliness. The closing track, “Back to the Past,” is a self-reflection of his past with a hopeful message about moving forward.
In 2019, Taeyong released his solo track “Long Flight” via SM Station, SM Entertainment’s digital music project aimed at showcasing its artists and producers in new ways. Both the track and music video received positive reviews. The track debuted at No. 6 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart. In 2022, he collaborated with rapper Wonstein for the single “Love Theory.” The song notably debuted at No. 8 on Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart.
Taeyong is a member of NCT sub-group NCT 127, which recently completed a world tour earlier this year. NCT 127’s fourth album repackage, Ay-Yo, marked the group’s fifth consecutive top 10 debut on the Billboard Top Album Sales chart. In January, to celebrate their special anniversary 127 Day, the group hosted a virtual event and concert experience on Roblox, the event marked the first concert in a dedicated K-pop experience on the platform, as well as the largest ever official group performance by any band on Roblox, with nine band members performing virtually.
