Byun Baekhyun of EXO contributed a treasure trove of solo songs to the Korean pop discography. On his 32nd birthday, we are diving deep into the best of his singles, which marks why Baekhyun remains a celebrated K-pop soloist amidst his talented peers.
EXO Baekhyun released his first solo EP, City Lights, in 2019. It made history, selling over half a million copies within days of its release, becoming the best-selling solo album of the 2010s. But much before his official solo debut, Baekhyun teased a glimpse of his vocalist charm when he collaborated with Suzi on the track “Dream”.
Since “Dream,” Baekhyun has released over 14 singles, four extended plays, and multiple collaborations. So here’s the roundup of the best of Baekhyun, whose magical vocals have been a strength of EXO since their debut.
‘Hurt’
Baekhyun’s 2021 track “Hurt” with singer Seomoontak is unlike anything he has released before. The predominantly rock-based song brings out the vocal prowess of the musical duo and lends a heart-wrenching tune that is hard to ignore.
“Hurt” also displays Baekhyun’s ease in fitting his vocals into any concept. The “Candy” crooner flawlessly taps into high notes in the song’s chorus, singing, “Weep for love/Now I know/I finally learn fake of love/ Sweet memories become tears.” Since its release, the song’s performance music video has garnered over 2.1 million views on YouTube and remains a particular track for fans because it showcases Baekhyun’s diverse singing ability.
‘Amusement Park’
Baekhyun’s Amusement Park was a winter gift to fans, released on December 6, 2020. The single marked his comeback six months after his second mini album, Delight. Fitting with the slow winter theme, Baekhyun’s Amusement Park is cherished among those who appreciate the singer’s minimal arrangements and soothing vocals.
In the laid-back jazzy track, Baekhyun sings in a lullaby style: “Full of dreams and love/ Let’s go to a mysterious world/ Colorful fireworks/ A wonderful parade for the two/ I am your amusement park.” The music video has received over 15 million views since its release, making it one of Baekhyun’s most popular tracks, which fans always return to.
‘Take You Home’
Byun Baekhyun’s “Take You Home” was part of the 2017 SM Station Spring special release. The song proved once again that Baekhyun, as a solo vocalist, stands tall in his realms, making his own distinguished space amid many star contenders.
The song’s specialty is its mellow tune that pairs with Baekhyun’s soft vocals perfectly as he sings to his lover: “I know, even when you act like nothing’s wrong/ I know that you’re waiting/ In your eyes that try to smile, there is sadness/ But I can’t do anything about it/ I can feel it.”
The music video is also a special treat for fans alongside the song’s heartwarming tune. Baekhyun shows everything he is ready to do to convince the person he loves of his dedication. Since its release, the song has received over 19 million views on YouTube and remains one of the best Spring K-pop videos.
‘UN Village’
EXO icon’s UN Village was a part of his debut EP, City Lights. Contrary to his signature pop genre tracks, “UN Village” reveals Baekhyun’s mastery of diverse genres like R&B and alternative R&B.
In “UN Village,” a brave Baekhyun invites his lover to take a leap of faith, singing, “Even if you say you already know/ In a fresh new way/ I’ll lead you/ Lean on me/ Only I have the right to spend/ This special time with you, I know/ I know that I know that, I know.” The moody music video and Baekhyun’s edgy vocals have made the song an all-time favorite of EXO fans, recording over 56 million views.
‘Bambi’
In “Bambi,” Baekhyun’s solo charm culminated into a masterpiece. The song is the title track of Baekhyun’s 2021 EP, Bambi, his last EP before his military hiatus. The music reflects Baekhyun’s maturity as a solo singer, highlighting his fluidity in adapting to a more R&B approach than his previous soft boy pop tunes.
After its release, Bambi reached number 10 on the US World Tunes chart and topped the Gaon Digital chart at 14th. The song has received over 56 million views on YouTube since its release and is among the singer’s most-watched music videos.
‘Candy’
Baekhyun’s “Candy” marked the beginning of his solo era, and the music video is everything that a typical K-pop release promises to be. In “Candy,” a passionate Baekhyun promises to become attractive and lure his lover to come to him. The song’s catchy beats and groovy tunes ideally give way to Baekhyun, introducing a dance break on the track, and making it a signature K-pop hit.
“Candy” is also a treat for those who love vibrant Korean music videos. The song is an instant lift-me-up with lyrics like “I’ll become something special/ So you’d come to me, yeah/ Even someone picky as you/ Will be addicted to me, yeah.” Since its drop in 2019, Candy has wrecked over 82 million views.
