‘K-Pop Star’ Upgraded Stage…Followed By A Storm Of Responses
The 15th episode-aired on the 11th-presented the Top 8 contestants as the second episode of the live shows was revealed. The contestants were asked to perform a song from the domestic and foreign million sellers' lists, and showcase their own style.
The first live show episode left the audience disappointed, the contestants were performing in front of a live stage for the first time and their nerves got the best of them. There were also outbursts when the Top 9 was revealed. This week, the elimination process was changed: 60% of the vote will come from the judges, 30% from text messages, and 10% from internet voting.
The show's 'elegant tone' Baek Ahyeon performed second and was the strong favorite to win. Unfortunately, Ahyeon had to spend her birthday competing instead of celebrating. However, she performed Jo Sungmo's (who share the same birthday) hit song, 'Do You Know.' The deep, emotional feelings of the original song were brought back and the judges were definitely touched, giving an average score of 92 points out of 100. Ahyeon received the highest average score and is said to be the favorite.
In addition, the second live show caught the attention of viewers. Dubbed as showing a 'dramatic transformation,' the contestants showed a different side to their styles. Even though he received the lowest average score from the judges, the viewers showed their supports and helped Lee Seunghoon to stay in the competition. This week, he showed a different side to his performance with the song, 'Bobbed Hair (Dahnbal Muhri).' Lee Seunghoon performed the song with a funny, entertaining rap that he wrote himself, and embraced the retro style of the song. Park Jinyoung (JYP) stated, "The finished product, sincerity, lyrics, clothes, and the dance were all perfectly in sync."
Baek Jiwoong performed Lee Moonsae's 'In the Rain' featuring exceptional performances, attracting the audience. Completely different from last week's live show, Baek Jiwoong showed us a relaxed performance with quiet confidence, impressing the judges. Park Jinyoung praised him with the statement that this was the best performance that Baek Jiwoong ever gave.
Next, Kim Nayoon chose to sing Adele's song, 'Set Fire to the Rain,' an ambitious choice. Unfortunately, it seems that she bit off more than she could chew; the performance eliminated her from the competition. Singing an Adele song, it's hard to divert away from her style but the judges agree that she did so successfully. However, the performance was hard to fully digest.
After the show, viewers responded, "It was beautiful to see the contestants be given new challenges!" "Was able to see Baek Jiwoong perform strong live. Also seeing Baek Ahyeon perform without shaking was good to see" "Lee Seunghoon's original and fun performance was very good. I can't wait for next week's performance!" "Kim Nayoon, you did very well. Hope to see you again on a stage."
Top 8's Baek Jiwoong, Baek Ahyeon, Lee Michelle, Yoon Hyunsang, Lee Hai, Park Jaehyung, Lee Seunghoon, and Park Jimin will perform again on the 18th. The live stage will be moved to a different location and the contestants will be given a new mission. Expectations are high as the live survival show continues.
