EXID
As a long-term fan of EXID, I want to dedicate one post to them. I am proud to say I have been a fan since their debut. From a girl group that literally lost half of its members to one of the most popular girl groups in South Korea, EXID's success story is definitely worthy of applause and should act as encouragement for other K-pop groups out there.
EXID which stands for “Exceed in Dream" debuted in 2012 as a 6 member girl group with their debut single, "Who'z That Girl." This group is comprised of many ex-JYP trainees. The original six members are LE, Hani, Jeonghwa, Dami, Yuji, and Haeryeong. Their debut was decently successful. They went for a more refreshing girl crush vibe. One thing that caught people's attention was definitely their singing abilities. Most of the members had a chance to demonstrate their vocal skills, especially Yuji and Dami. There was also a lot of rap compared to a lot of girl groups. LE, the main rapper, was an underground rapper, so she was different compared to other groups with more stereotypical "idol rapping." There was also a dance solo by Jeonghwa.
Who'z That Girl
Everyone had their eyes on this rookie girl group and then suddenly THREE MEMBERS LEFT. Literally, 2 months after their debut, Dami and Yuji left for educational purposes and Haeryeong left for her acting career. This seems sketchy as who would just drop out after finally debuting. Also, not one, not two, but three people dropped out. This sounds a bit sketchy. Also, just one year later, these three members became members of Bestie. According to rumors, there were issues with management. One of the selling points of EXID during their debut was that this group was produced by Shinsadong Tiger, one of Korea's most popular producer, who is the star behind hit songs like Bo Beep Bo Beep by T-ara, Bbom Bboom by Momoland, and NoNoNo by Apink. EXID is under AB Entertainment but as a new entertainment agency, it needed help so it co-produced EXID with YNB Entertainment. When their debut song was accused of plagiarism, it was rumored that YNB Entertainment took its three members and left EXID. For a more detailed description of what was rumored to have happened, please refer to this LINK.
In August 2012, EXID regrouped as a five-member girl group and came back with the original members, Hani, Jeonghwa, and LE, and added two new members, Solji (fun fact: she was EXID's vocal trainer and ex-member of a vocal duo named 2NB) and Hyelin. They came back with "I Feel Good," a song with crazy beats and energy. After hearing this song, I really do feel a lot more happy and energetic. I highly recommend blasting this on a bad day. The music video is about the members of EXID getting together after work to have a great time. It is easy to understand and relatable. I really miss their old music videos. LE really added to the song with her unique voice and rap. Solji's vocals are FIRE in this song. Hyelin really caught me by surprise with her baby face. I was worried that her looks and more petite body compared to the group would not fit with the rest of the members but her vocals really tie the whole group together. Sadly, "I Feel Good" was not very successful.
I Feel Good
Next, they came back in October 2012 with "Every Night" which was their first sexy concept. The vocals definitely did not disappoint and it also has the classic LE rap. The music video is hilarious and very high quality. I really thought this song was going to be a huge hit. It is catchy, the music video is good, it had killer vocals, and the dance is easy to follow and sexy. Sadly, it did not do super well.
EXID's first and only sub-unit, Dasoni, debuted with "Goodbye" in February of 2014. The members of Dasoni are Hani and Solji. This song did a great job of displaying both Solji and Hani's vocals. This song also did not do too well.
In June 2014, EXID signed with Yedang Entertainment with Shinsadong Tiger as EXID's exclusive producer.
In August 2014, EXID came back with the infamous "Up and Down." I was quite surprised by the quality of the music video. Their previous music videos are pretty good quality and their outfits seemed more expensive. Their outfits here were literally them in faux leather leggings, black heels, and neon shirts. Cheaper outfits are usually bad because it means the company is poor and does not have enough money to invest. The group was on the verge of disbandment because of their lack of success. The song, on the other hand, is amazing. When I first heard it, I loved it. EXID never disappoints in terms of vocals. The song is extremely catchy and the dance was provocative which made this song more popular. Once again, I was like, "This is the one. This will definitely be a hit." Sadly, this song also was not a hit.
Up and Down
Then came the infamous fan-cam incident. Four months after its initial release, in October, a fan-cam of Hani performing this song went viral. This was not common at all. "Up and Down" topped music charts, and EXID was invited back on music programs to perform this song. This song became a huge hit and was playing everywhere. Finally, on January 8, 2015, they received their first music show number one since their debut. Hani, the star of the fan-cam, became really popular and was a guest on many variety shows. Though extremely charismatic on stage, her personality is hilarious and very easy going, making her popular on variety shows. I was crying tears of happiness. Finally, my girls are getting the recognition they deserve. Hani has been my bias since the start and to see her finally shine is very gratifying.
After the success of "Up and Down," a lot of people criticized EXID. Some called Hani untalented and criticized her for just being sexy. Hani actually has amazing vocals. If you look at her performances when she first debuted, the company gave her a lot more challenging lines ("Who'z That Girl" and Dasoni's "Goodbye"). I have not seen too many videos of her being a dancing machine like Hyoyeon of Girls Generation, but Hani possesses undeniable charisma. On stage, she is all serious and her eyes could kill. You would never expect her to be such a goofball off stage. There is a reason for her video to go viral. Also, EXID is the first group to have all of its members go on King of Masked Singer with Solji being the show's first winner; this proves the vocal abilities of this group as a whole.
In April 2015, EXID came back with "Ah Yeah." Riding on the success of "Up and Down," "Ah Yeah" was even more successful. I was so scared that they would only have one viral song then be forgottenlike Crayon Pop.
In November 2015, EXID came back with "Hot Pink." They went hard on the girl crush theme and crushed it. Every member was stunning.
In January 2016, EXID signed with Chinese entertainment company, Banana Project. In March, EXID's record label Yedang Entertainment changed its name to Banana Culture, launching a joint venture company in Seoul with Banana Project. Banana Culture Music's CEO is Wang Si Cong. His father is the chairman of Dalian Wanda Group, China's largest real estate developer, as well as the world's largest movie theater operator. With all of these resources, I was very excited for EXID's future.
In June 2016, EXID came back with "L.I.E." When this song and music video came out, I was a bit disappointed. I felt like they were recycling the same successful algorithm for too long. I was craving something new. Nevertheless, this song was very catchy and the girls did well.
In December 2016, EXID had their first Chinese single, "Cream."
Also in December 2016, Solji was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, and she would halt all her activities for the awards season of 2016-17.
In April 2017, EXID came back with "Night Rather Than Day." For a really long time, EXID has been sticking to one concept, a more sexy girl crush concept. They have been recycling this successful concept for some time. "Night Rather Than Day" is more disco and jazz and more throwback and retro. It is interesting to see EXID finally taking a big step towards experimenting with new concepts.
In November 2017, EXID came back with "DDD." This song was more raw and sexy compared to their previous songs.
In April 2018, EXID came back with "Lady." I loved the song, the concept, and the outfits. Sadly, Solji could not partake, or else this song would have been even better. They went for a throwback concept, sporting 90s color block windbreakers, white caps, and baggy denim. Hani was stunning in this. Personally, I thought she was the prettiest during this era. Wish I can pull off a white cap, pink hair, and 90s colorblock jacket as well as her. Everyone looked great but I feel like Hyelin really shined in this song. Not that Solji overshadows her but Solji's amazing vocals might sometimes make people forget how equally talented Hyelin is. She can pull off a lot of high notes as well. This song gave her many chances to demonstrate her vocal abilities *ahem her amazing dolphin notes*. I also think she looked great with her new hairstyle.
In May 2018, EXID officially debuted in Japan with the Japanese version of "Up and Down."
In November 2018, Solji returned to promote with the group, and EXID came back with "I Love You." Once again, EXID went for a more girl crush, mature theme and they totally killed it. Oh, I've missed Solji's killer vocals. EXID in suits is so beautiful, mature, and sexy. These girls look good in everything. I am so sad it did not win number 1 on any music shows. People be sleeping on bops, smh.
I Love You
Currently, in 2018, EXID is now one of the top girl groups in Korea. They have been through a huge lineup change and were on the verge of disbandment but they pulled through. Their success is truly legendary and should give new groups hope. I am so happy that "Up and Down" went viral and introduced to the public this amazing group. The success of "Up and Down" goes to show that sometimes it is not the artists' fault or the songwriter's fault, but the public just is not hearing their songs yet. I feel like people need to give rookies a chance and give their songs a listen. If people just venture out more and listen to less popular songs, there are so many groups out there with so much potential.
I feel like though their company is messed up at times (cough cough the departure of half the group), their company is not too bad. Each year, they have on average 2 comebacks. Though Hani went viral, the company did not make her overshadow other members of the group. It is easy for one member to become the only member that gets any screen time, but it seems like everyone has a part. Solji's and Hyelin's vocals go hand in hand to deliver killer vocals. LE's unique voice adds so much character to their songs; she is also their songwriter. Hani is such a queen with overflowing charisma and incredible stage presence. The company works extra hard to give Jeonghwa the spotlight she deserves. They give her solo parts in the song and make her the center even when Hani is technically the most popular member of the group. Everyone has a part in this song; no one really overshadows anyone else.
EXID's use of sexual symbolism which includes social commentary is very unique. For example, in the music video of "Ah Yeah," the mosaics are criticizing Korean censorship for always deeming things inappropriate when really they did not mean for it to be inappropriate.
Currently, EXID's popularity is stable but they still are not doing as well on music shows as they could. Like come on... how did "I Like You" not win number one on any music shows... still salty.
There is honestly so much to love about this group. This group is crazy talented. Think Solji's and Hyelin's vocals and Hani, LE, and Jeonghwa's charisma (P.S. LE is an amazing songwriter and composer. She writes and composes many of EXID's songs. She also helped write the lyrics for Troublemaker's "Troublemaker"). They are hilarious; truly a fun group to watch on variety shows. I crack up no matter how many times I watch their Weekly Idol appearances. They are so beautiful and hardworking. I really wish them much success in the future and for many more people to love them. I am very proud to be a LEGGO!
EXID which stands for “Exceed in Dream" debuted in 2012 as a 6 member girl group with their debut single, "Who'z That Girl." This group is comprised of many ex-JYP trainees. The original six members are LE, Hani, Jeonghwa, Dami, Yuji, and Haeryeong. Their debut was decently successful. They went for a more refreshing girl crush vibe. One thing that caught people's attention was definitely their singing abilities. Most of the members had a chance to demonstrate their vocal skills, especially Yuji and Dami. There was also a lot of rap compared to a lot of girl groups. LE, the main rapper, was an underground rapper, so she was different compared to other groups with more stereotypical "idol rapping." There was also a dance solo by Jeonghwa.
Who'z That Girl
Everyone had their eyes on this rookie girl group and then suddenly THREE MEMBERS LEFT. Literally, 2 months after their debut, Dami and Yuji left for educational purposes and Haeryeong left for her acting career. This seems sketchy as who would just drop out after finally debuting. Also, not one, not two, but three people dropped out. This sounds a bit sketchy. Also, just one year later, these three members became members of Bestie. According to rumors, there were issues with management. One of the selling points of EXID during their debut was that this group was produced by Shinsadong Tiger, one of Korea's most popular producer, who is the star behind hit songs like Bo Beep Bo Beep by T-ara, Bbom Bboom by Momoland, and NoNoNo by Apink. EXID is under AB Entertainment but as a new entertainment agency, it needed help so it co-produced EXID with YNB Entertainment. When their debut song was accused of plagiarism, it was rumored that YNB Entertainment took its three members and left EXID. For a more detailed description of what was rumored to have happened, please refer to this LINK.
In August 2012, EXID regrouped as a five-member girl group and came back with the original members, Hani, Jeonghwa, and LE, and added two new members, Solji (fun fact: she was EXID's vocal trainer and ex-member of a vocal duo named 2NB) and Hyelin. They came back with "I Feel Good," a song with crazy beats and energy. After hearing this song, I really do feel a lot more happy and energetic. I highly recommend blasting this on a bad day. The music video is about the members of EXID getting together after work to have a great time. It is easy to understand and relatable. I really miss their old music videos. LE really added to the song with her unique voice and rap. Solji's vocals are FIRE in this song. Hyelin really caught me by surprise with her baby face. I was worried that her looks and more petite body compared to the group would not fit with the rest of the members but her vocals really tie the whole group together. Sadly, "I Feel Good" was not very successful.
I Feel Good
Past members:
Current Members:
(from left to right) Jeonghwa, Solji, Hyelin, Hani, LE
Next, they came back in October 2012 with "Every Night" which was their first sexy concept. The vocals definitely did not disappoint and it also has the classic LE rap. The music video is hilarious and very high quality. I really thought this song was going to be a huge hit. It is catchy, the music video is good, it had killer vocals, and the dance is easy to follow and sexy. Sadly, it did not do super well.
EXID's first and only sub-unit, Dasoni, debuted with "Goodbye" in February of 2014. The members of Dasoni are Hani and Solji. This song did a great job of displaying both Solji and Hani's vocals. This song also did not do too well.
In June 2014, EXID signed with Yedang Entertainment with Shinsadong Tiger as EXID's exclusive producer.
In August 2014, EXID came back with the infamous "Up and Down." I was quite surprised by the quality of the music video. Their previous music videos are pretty good quality and their outfits seemed more expensive. Their outfits here were literally them in faux leather leggings, black heels, and neon shirts. Cheaper outfits are usually bad because it means the company is poor and does not have enough money to invest. The group was on the verge of disbandment because of their lack of success. The song, on the other hand, is amazing. When I first heard it, I loved it. EXID never disappoints in terms of vocals. The song is extremely catchy and the dance was provocative which made this song more popular. Once again, I was like, "This is the one. This will definitely be a hit." Sadly, this song also was not a hit.
Up and Down
Then came the infamous fan-cam incident. Four months after its initial release, in October, a fan-cam of Hani performing this song went viral. This was not common at all. "Up and Down" topped music charts, and EXID was invited back on music programs to perform this song. This song became a huge hit and was playing everywhere. Finally, on January 8, 2015, they received their first music show number one since their debut. Hani, the star of the fan-cam, became really popular and was a guest on many variety shows. Though extremely charismatic on stage, her personality is hilarious and very easy going, making her popular on variety shows. I was crying tears of happiness. Finally, my girls are getting the recognition they deserve. Hani has been my bias since the start and to see her finally shine is very gratifying.
After the success of "Up and Down," a lot of people criticized EXID. Some called Hani untalented and criticized her for just being sexy. Hani actually has amazing vocals. If you look at her performances when she first debuted, the company gave her a lot more challenging lines ("Who'z That Girl" and Dasoni's "Goodbye"). I have not seen too many videos of her being a dancing machine like Hyoyeon of Girls Generation, but Hani possesses undeniable charisma. On stage, she is all serious and her eyes could kill. You would never expect her to be such a goofball off stage. There is a reason for her video to go viral. Also, EXID is the first group to have all of its members go on King of Masked Singer with Solji being the show's first winner; this proves the vocal abilities of this group as a whole.
In April 2015, EXID came back with "Ah Yeah." Riding on the success of "Up and Down," "Ah Yeah" was even more successful. I was so scared that they would only have one viral song then be forgotten
In November 2015, EXID came back with "Hot Pink." They went hard on the girl crush theme and crushed it. Every member was stunning.
In January 2016, EXID signed with Chinese entertainment company, Banana Project. In March, EXID's record label Yedang Entertainment changed its name to Banana Culture, launching a joint venture company in Seoul with Banana Project. Banana Culture Music's CEO is Wang Si Cong. His father is the chairman of Dalian Wanda Group, China's largest real estate developer, as well as the world's largest movie theater operator. With all of these resources, I was very excited for EXID's future.
In June 2016, EXID came back with "L.I.E." When this song and music video came out, I was a bit disappointed. I felt like they were recycling the same successful algorithm for too long. I was craving something new. Nevertheless, this song was very catchy and the girls did well.
In December 2016, EXID had their first Chinese single, "Cream."
Also in December 2016, Solji was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, and she would halt all her activities for the awards season of 2016-17.
In April 2017, EXID came back with "Night Rather Than Day." For a really long time, EXID has been sticking to one concept, a more sexy girl crush concept. They have been recycling this successful concept for some time. "Night Rather Than Day" is more disco and jazz and more throwback and retro. It is interesting to see EXID finally taking a big step towards experimenting with new concepts.
In November 2017, EXID came back with "DDD." This song was more raw and sexy compared to their previous songs.
In April 2018, EXID came back with "Lady." I loved the song, the concept, and the outfits. Sadly, Solji could not partake, or else this song would have been even better. They went for a throwback concept, sporting 90s color block windbreakers, white caps, and baggy denim. Hani was stunning in this. Personally, I thought she was the prettiest during this era. Wish I can pull off a white cap, pink hair, and 90s colorblock jacket as well as her. Everyone looked great but I feel like Hyelin really shined in this song. Not that Solji overshadows her but Solji's amazing vocals might sometimes make people forget how equally talented Hyelin is. She can pull off a lot of high notes as well. This song gave her many chances to demonstrate her vocal abilities *ahem her amazing dolphin notes*. I also think she looked great with her new hairstyle.
In May 2018, EXID officially debuted in Japan with the Japanese version of "Up and Down."
In November 2018, Solji returned to promote with the group, and EXID came back with "I Love You." Once again, EXID went for a more girl crush, mature theme and they totally killed it. Oh, I've missed Solji's killer vocals. EXID in suits is so beautiful, mature, and sexy. These girls look good in everything. I am so sad it did not win number 1 on any music shows. People be sleeping on bops, smh.
I Love You
Currently, in 2018, EXID is now one of the top girl groups in Korea. They have been through a huge lineup change and were on the verge of disbandment but they pulled through. Their success is truly legendary and should give new groups hope. I am so happy that "Up and Down" went viral and introduced to the public this amazing group. The success of "Up and Down" goes to show that sometimes it is not the artists' fault or the songwriter's fault, but the public just is not hearing their songs yet. I feel like people need to give rookies a chance and give their songs a listen. If people just venture out more and listen to less popular songs, there are so many groups out there with so much potential.
I feel like though their company is messed up at times (cough cough the departure of half the group), their company is not too bad. Each year, they have on average 2 comebacks. Though Hani went viral, the company did not make her overshadow other members of the group. It is easy for one member to become the only member that gets any screen time, but it seems like everyone has a part. Solji's and Hyelin's vocals go hand in hand to deliver killer vocals. LE's unique voice adds so much character to their songs; she is also their songwriter. Hani is such a queen with overflowing charisma and incredible stage presence. The company works extra hard to give Jeonghwa the spotlight she deserves. They give her solo parts in the song and make her the center even when Hani is technically the most popular member of the group. Everyone has a part in this song; no one really overshadows anyone else.
EXID's use of sexual symbolism which includes social commentary is very unique. For example, in the music video of "Ah Yeah," the mosaics are criticizing Korean censorship for always deeming things inappropriate when really they did not mean for it to be inappropriate.
Currently, EXID's popularity is stable but they still are not doing as well on music shows as they could. Like come on... how did "I Like You" not win number one on any music shows... still salty.
There is honestly so much to love about this group. This group is crazy talented. Think Solji's and Hyelin's vocals and Hani, LE, and Jeonghwa's charisma (P.S. LE is an amazing songwriter and composer. She writes and composes many of EXID's songs. She also helped write the lyrics for Troublemaker's "Troublemaker"). They are hilarious; truly a fun group to watch on variety shows. I crack up no matter how many times I watch their Weekly Idol appearances. They are so beautiful and hardworking. I really wish them much success in the future and for many more people to love them. I am very proud to be a LEGGO!
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