Kings Theatre, located in a quiet part of Brooklyn's Flatbush neighborhood, is a historic venue originally constructed in 1929. Its striking architecture stands out against its surroundings. Like many historical sites, the theater has welcomed a multitude of performers over the years, aging gracefully and increasing in importance with time—a notion that resonates deeply with the artist who took to its stage on February 13th.
SHINee’s Taemin, often referred to as K-pop’s “idol of idols,” has enjoyed an illustrious career spanning nearly 17 years. As the youngest member of SHINee, he has continuously reinvented his artistry, first as part of the group and subsequently as a solo artist.
Among many achievements as a veteran in the industry, his remarkable longevity as an artist stands out. While countless musicians aspire to be remembered across the years, they often grapple with the reality that their impact can be fleeting. This sentiment is one that Taemin reflects upon, which is perhaps reflected in the title of his world tour, Ephemeral Gaze. This concept contrasts with his upcoming 2024 release, ‘ETERNAL’, a seven-song EP where he explores experimental and unrestricted themes, asserting his status as the “Greatest of All Time” in the opening track ‘G.O.A.T’. Taemin’s body of work features many such contrasts, possibly indicating that recognizing the ephemeral nature of existence is what motivates his performances.
Despite the venue's limited capacity, which couldn’t accommodate all the fans eager to see him after nearly two decades (the show sold out within minutes), it certainly matches his grand character. Designed in the style of the Palace of Versailles, with high ceilings, gold ornamented pilasters, and red velvet drapes, it embodies a regal atmosphere, complementing Taemin's royal presence.
As he kicks off the show with ‘Deja Vu’, Taemin steps on stage with arms wide open and head bowed—his signature pose. The song’s compelling melody, enriched by captivating strings and distorted echoes, captures his struggle to discern reality from illusion, setting the perfect tone for the evening.
While he has a commanding presence when needed, his introduction to the audience softens this intensity, revealing a warm smile that contrasts with his artist persona and is genuinely heartwarming.
The setlist boasts a wealth of his iconic tracks, including ‘Sexy in The Air’, ‘WANT’, ‘The Rizzness’, ‘Horizon’, and the crown jewel of his repertoire, ‘MOVE’.
Though it’s challenging to pick a highlight from the night, Taemin’s rendition of ‘Heaven’ embodies the essence of his artistry. Attendees have remarked that the song evokes a collective euphoria akin to a spiritual experience, and witnessing it live elucidates this sentiment. The piece is both ethereal and haunting, with Taemin’s body becoming an instrument as he transforms into a siren, the melody resonating through every outstretched hand and body movement in the choreography.
Towards the show’s conclusion, a staircase is unveiled, and he ascends the steps with a mix of resignation and grace. With his head lowered, he turns back to the audience, performing the sign of the cross before raising his arms toward the sky as he falls backward. The moment he disappears is deafeningly tense, with thunderous sounds echoing followed by darkness. This vivid image sears itself into the audience's memory—his outstretched arm and poignant expression.
Vocally, he is equally impressive. At times, it’s difficult to tell whether it’s only his voice or a backing track that is heard—Taemin’s live vocals mirror his studio recordings with remarkable precision, a significant accomplishment for any live artist. Before performing ‘The Unknown Sea’, he shares that the song is written from the viewpoint of a butterfly encountering the ocean for the first time. As he sings, it evolves into a first-person narrative. Even after 17 years, Taemin’s joy in finally connecting with his international fans is evident.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the fans who have consistently supported him and requested their continued encouragement as he explores the depths of his artistry: “As long as you guys want it, I will continue to stand on stage and repay your love back to you.”
Once a shy 14-year-old, propelled by his passion for dance and an aversion to after-school tutoring to audition for an idol position, Taemin has blossomed into one of the greatest performers in K-pop history. Witnessing someone so evidently enamored with their art is genuinely a privilege.
Taemin was destined for the stage.
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Words + Photography: Natalia Kabenge
Kings Theatre, located in a quiet part of Brooklyn's Flatbush neighborhood, was originally constructed in 1929 and is visually impressive.