BTOB’s Yook Sungjae has found great success as an actor and variety star, but hasn’t been as active as a solo musician. He made his solo debut in 2020, weeks before his mandatory military enlistment. Four years later, he’s back with a new single album and title track Be Somebody.
Sungjae has a powerful voice and in K-pop this can often shoehorn you as a balladeer. His personality seems more pulled toward youthful, upbeat material and Be Somebody splits the difference between the two. It’s an empowering anthem, but in a very canned way. The leaden beat reminds me of Imagine Dragons (never a compliment) and the melodic structure trudges along in similar fashion. Sungjae sounds fantastic, but I could’ve told you that before even listening to the song.
Rock music feels like a good venue for Sungjae’s charms and he attacks Be Somebody with full gusto. However, the song makes too many predictable moves. The contrast between soft verses and bombastic chorus doesn’t work and the trap-beats-meet-rock-guitar production feels rehashed. It might have been somewhat fresh five years ago. Today, it sounds more like the soundtrack to an advertisement.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 7 |
| Longevity | 7 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7.25 |
Grade: C
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
I had to laugh because the little rim shot sound at the end of chorus is straight out that sample package that all of kpop uses.
Anyway, song is placed too high for him for the high high notes of the chorus. Sure 90% is well within his full belt, but the “trying to be somebody” high phrase is just not good (at 0:54). The song itself sounds US radio friendly, which is fine.
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His Come with the wind is one of my fav solos of all time, just love how that song speaks to the listener🥺. This, on the other hand..gives me more of a Renegade feel for whatever weird reason. And agree with Myma that it’s placed too high, it’s not just that one phrase, but the singing overall feels that way.
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Thank god Sungjae is so brave to challenge himself for new genre.
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The strong music arrangement and high high notes really helps to emphasize the rage from the lyrics. And he can reached that note so no problem
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I loved everything about this comeback, the song and vocals are great!
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