Yes, I also think that there were some live performances mixed in with those that were focused on backtracks to varying degrees. The problem was it was difficult to distinguish any “pure vocal” performances from " vocal with aids/tricks" performances with the groups. Of course easier to figure out what was going on with the soloists. I just wish that these award shows could be more of a “concert experience” than what I got, but I understand the reasons why it’s not that feasible. I just get disappointed since the opportunity for me to see any of these K Pop stars in concert is very slim, so I have to rely on these awards shows for live performances. I’m probably in the minority for wanting to just hear the pure vocals. Most people seem to want to watch the dancing.
As for the mics- IKR? Not adjusting the mic stand must be a trend because it was also that way at the American Music Awards this year. So many people hunched down over the mic, poor things.
Glad you enjoyed some of the stages. Yeah- Stray Kids had an elaborate stage, and I thought Ateez stage was big as well with all of the traditional dancers and musicians.
@feyfayer Sometimes they do. I like to hear pure vocals at the award shows, so if a group doesn’t even try to sing live, it affects my view of them. I understand the need for backtracks but I still appreciate it more when K Pop stars keep it to a minimum for these live award show stages. It’s my understanding that only the top acts get invited to perform at the award shows, so I expect them to be able to sing live. I believe it is considered a big deal if an act is invited to perform on these award shows, a sign that they have “made it”. I know some people are very critical about the dancing at award shows, but that’s not as important to me so I can forgive more there. Sometimes you will just see a powerful performance at the award shows and that can introduce me to an artist that I wasn’t that familiar with or who I wasn’t that interested in previously,
I understand where you are coming from. And yes, many of them are more of a popularity contest. Certainly for South Korea as I have not been able to find a music awards show that is only based on artistic merit with no regard to sales or chart position. They all have numbers as part of the criteria for winning.
I was surprised to see Jannabi in the nominees too. I had seen the lead singer several times on Immortal Songs so I knew who they were, but often the guests on Immortal Songs aren’t seen in the K Pop Idol world. It was great to see them win at MAMA.
Yes, I agree that it’s a bit boring when you know that BTS is an auto win. I like BTS as people but I have to admit to a little bit of “BTS fatigue” when it comes to the award shows. I mean they have won Artist of the Year at MAMA for 6 years in a row now. Of course I know that they deserve everything, but there’s a small part of me that just wants someone else to have a turn. Like you said, there’s not much excitement anymore when they are nominated in a category since they have a lock on it.
I saw an article in Soompi today about her cancer surgery. I wish that she has a successful surgery with no complications and can make a full recovery. There were some informative comments from other posters who also had dealt with the disease. It looks like there is a very high survival rate which is good but dealing with the medications to replace the thyroid hormones can be difficult. She will have to be on medication for the rest of her life. I wish her only the best.
), but I always feel like SM gives me what I’m interested in. I can feel their passion for the music more than just the performances.
it!
I get it now! They’re different people 
Thanks!!