
YG Entertainment is known for producing the best rappers in the K-pop industry, who captivate fans with their fierce charisma and rap skills. However, behind the hard-hitting bars and swagger lies an often-overlooked talent: vocal ability. Over the years, YG rappers across generations have showcased their vocal skills with their solo tracks. These songs peel back the layers of their hip-hop image to reveal a more melodic, emotional side.
Here are some of the solo tracks by both former and current YG rappers that highlight their vocal strengths.
NEVER EVER [EUN JIWON]
A pioneer in the Korean hip-hop scene and the leader and rapper of Sechskies, Eun Ji Won’ has a beautiful voice, which he showcases through his solo track "NEVER EVER.” It blends nostalgic melodies with rhythmic finesse, and his delivery of melancholic singing captivates fans.
Untitled, 2014 [G-DRAGON]
Arguably one of the most iconic songs from a YG artist, "Untitled, 2014" strips away all production flair to spotlight G-Dragon's delicate vocals. Known for his rapping, GD surprises with his tender and raw singing that captures heartbreak and vulnerability with minimal instrumentation.
Hi Haruka [T.O.P]
T.O.P’s signature deep voice usually powers his iconic rap verses, but in “Hi Haruka,” the OST from ‘Secret Message,’ he surprises us with tender vocals, captivating both fans and non-fans. It's a rare window into his more introspective side, revealing a textured, emotional delivery.
[Lover Like Me] CL
CL’s vocal tone in her solo track "Lover Like Me" showcases her versatility as more than a fierce rapper. Her controlled vocals reflect emotional nuance, showing how heartbreak can be conveyed through both power and restraint.
[Beautiful Lie] MINZY
Minzy’s solo track "Beautiful Lie" presents a striking contrast to her dance-heavy image. The haunting ballad features her clean and passionate vocals, affirming her capacity as a singer capable of carrying weighty emotional content.
[LOSING U] MINO
WINNER's MINO is known for his gruff delivery and clever wordplay. "LOSING U" offers a heartfelt break from that, highlighting his singing ability layered over a soft piano melody. It captures emotional depth and vocal clarity.
[MY TYPE] LEE SEUNGHOON
Lee Seunghoon, the rapper from WINNER, showcases his vocal warmth in the track "MY TYPE” from his solo debut EP. The song highlights his skills both as a singer and a rapper. It's an easy-listening love song with a catchy hook and light rap verses.
Seoul City [JENNIE]
While most tracks on Jennie’s stunning debut album, ‘Ruby’ highlight her vocal prowess, “Seoul City” stands out as a melancholic gem that quickly became a fan favourite. Its dreamy melody, paired with Jennie’s captivating vocals, creates an immersive, almost otherworldly experience.
[DREAM] LISA
Known for her rap and dance skills, BLACKPINK’s Lisa demonstrated her vocal skills through her debut solo album, and the ballad song “DREAM" revealed a side of her rarely seen: a pure, delicate vocal style. The song emphasises her soft tone and sincerity, proving her musical versatility.
[Cherry Blossom] BOBBY
Bobby is known for his intense rap style, but in "Cherry Blossom," he trades grit for softness. The mid-tempo track captures a romantic mood, with Bobby's husky voice navigating melodies smoothly and soulfully.
illa illa [B.I]
B.I stunned fans with his solo debut song, “illa illa,” which demonstrates his skills both as a singer and rapper, boasting a sing-song melody. His voice quivers with emotion, combining his lyricism with a vocal performance that feels raw and deeply personal.
These songs prove that YG rappers are also excellent vocalists. Whether they're singing balladry, acoustic renditions, or genre-blending experiments, their voices carry emotional weight and artistic versatility.
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