Although K-pop artists often shift from sound to sound, SHINee pushes the boundaries of sticking to one sound per comeback and has mastered a wide range of genres. This is accomplished through their complex dance routines, live vocal talent, and fashion influence.
The boy group’s name is formed from “shine” and the suffix “ee,” which means “one who receives the light.” In May 2008, SHINee debuted under SM Entertainment with their first EP, “Replay.” The group’s five members—Onew, Minho, Key, Taemin, and Jonghyun—brought with them diverse backgrounds in piano, dance, acting, and writing music. Jonghyun struggled with his mental health and passed away in 2017, a loss that sparked important conversations about the pressures of the South Korean entertainment industry.
As SM Entertainment prepared for SHINee’s debut, they envisioned the group as trendsetters in dance, music, and fashion. The group’s choreography is as intricate as ballet. Their MV for their song “Lucifer,” released shortly after SHINee’s debut, earned many awards for its complex routines and creative dance moves.
SHINee creates a harmonious blend between their main and sub vocals, uncommon in the K-pop industry. The synergy between the vocals of Onew and the late Jonghyun is aesthetically contrasting. Because of their unique vocal chemistry, SHINee has been noted as one of the best live vocal groups in K-pop.
Lastly, SHINee has paved the way for new trends with their distinctive fashion. Their look features high-top sneakers, skinny jeans, and colorful sweaters. In the group’s early years, this style became iconic among young people, known as the "Shinee Trend." Over the years, their style has evolved to be more mature while maintaining charm.
SHINee's fifth extended play, Everybody, showcases the epitome of what the group is, classified under the complextro genre. The group’s versatility, combined with their exceptional dance routines, live vocals, and fashion, makes SHINee a trendsetter.