Kang Daniel’s discography is beyond a staple or collection of bops but it is a creative outlet, a story that captures his journey, one that if you listen and watch very closely, you’d be able to resonate with as you will inevitably be able to draw some levels of similarities with your own life. This is perhaps one of the reasons why his art is one of the most refined today and why he is one of the most well-rounded artists in the industry. While all his songs can rightfully be classified as masterpieces (because they truly are) here are some of our absolute favorites and ones we draw deep meaning and connection with.
1. ‘Antidote’
One of the reasons why Kang Daniel’s songs stand out is because of how relatable his messages are. The album “Yellow” was a pure masterpiece as it musically illustrated the quest to overcome our demons and the conflicting pressures that comes with that pursuit. ‘Antidote’ speaks to a desire to break free, to be relieved of the pain, pressure, and ache that has afflicted us. Seeking for the cure to what feels like a never-ending pain, even if it is for a brief second, if you can escape from the bonds, then the struggle to get said relief would be worth it. Kang Daniel’s vocals on this song served as the beautiful vehicle that brought the thought-provoking message to life. Melodious and filled with emotions, his intonations brilliantly portray the conflicting struggle that he faces, high, rough, soft, and low, he tunes his voice in several ways that fit the particular lyric he sings, which is why at different moments of the song, one might feel various levels of emotions that ultimately makes you understand him.
2. ‘Save U’
Kang Daniel undeniably has one of the most soothing voices in K-Pop today. Soft, gentle, warm, and sincere, his tone carries the power and meaning of this song. He provides a sense of comfort and security to his listeners. Yes, he might also have his own struggles but his arms are still wide open to receive you and it is outstretched to lift you up. A simple song with a deep and resounding meaning, many kinds find a sense of hope and restoration from listening to this song. Perhaps that was part of his purpose for making this, to heal, to restore, and to save.
3. ‘Paranoia’
A song that years from now will still be regarded as a pure masterpiece, this already timeless bop in our books, is one of the best K-Pop songs ever. Kang Daniel does not just explore his darkest demons in this song but brings us on his journey. He shows it is not just the glitz and glamour that we see on the surface, beyond that, in the corners of the dark are where the true reality lies. An inescapable presence, one we can never get rid of. Like a shadow, it follows you, haunting you as it tries to take over your being. Kang Daniel’s brilliance is once again emitted with this song and its incredible concept, with the music video of this song, he vividly shows us what each lyric means and the ultimate purpose of the song, to shed light on the monster that creeps in the dark of our lives.
4. ‘Upside Down’
A comeback that rightfully earned him a spot on our first half of the year ranking, once again, Kang Daniel uses his songs to heal. While he often illustrates the reality of life and never sugarcoats his music or messages, he also uses his songs to create a sense of peace and comfort for his listeners. He understands the complexities of life as one who has been through various trials. His path hasn’t been a landscape filled with the most beautiful of flowers, and like many others, he has perhaps met a few potholes and stumbling blocks on his journey, but he keeps going and doesn’t let the negatives derail him. His music creates a sense of appreciation in the minds of his listeners “Oh! I am not alone in this.” This could be a reaction that many get whenever they listen to healing songs like ‘Upside Down’.
5. ‘Misunderstood’
Before we delve into his incredible lyrical skills, we have to talk about how amazing his vocals sound in the song. Layered beautifully, his tone is so melodic and powerful. From the first note, he seizes your attention with his piercing sound. His tenor is rich, deep, and with a hint of raspiness and growl that makes his voice so unique. Once again, his message is clear and reflective of the human mind. ‘Misunderstood’ speaks to the reality that not everyone would understand and relate to you, even though you try to put up a cheery front in contrast to what’s really going on in your mind. There is a fog-like presence that almost clouds the world from seeing the pain and darkness roaming through your mind, and when you try to speak about it, there is a drawback. This is perhaps why it is easier to say “I am okay” even when you’re not. He brilliantly tackles the mental issues many individuals face today and the internal and external pressures that come along with it in this song.
6. ‘Who U Are’
A bop and a half! Kang Daniel can either have you in your feelings, making a reassuring stance to be a better person as you see the light at the end of the tunnel or he can simply have you dancing and grooving. ‘Who U Are’ is a kind of song that would make you feel so good, confident, and sexy even.
7. ‘The Story’
Kang Daniel’s voice is simply magical and he effortlessly entrances you with his sound. He sings with so much gentility and calmness, making his songs quite enjoyable to listen to. His technique is brilliant and in this song, his perfect adlibs, runs and riffs were the icing on a very sonorous track. The drop of the instrumentals towards the end, with just the drums and his vocal searing through every beat, was another extra wow moment that beautifully brings the song together and makes us listen to this song on repeat. Which of these songs is your favorite? Are there any you consider a true masterpiece that is not here? Share with us in the comments section below. Boy Crush: Kang Daniel, The Man Who Makes Us Want To Lead A ‘Parade’ In Honor Of His Perfection KPOP STORIES|Jul 4, 2022
