Vocal range can be described as the distance between the lowest and highest notes a singer can produce and a wide range makes it easier to sing across genres, deliver dramatic live stages, and keep performances exciting.
In this article we look at the best K-pop singers with wide vocal ranges, supported by data and performance.
1. Taeyeon (Girls’ Generation)
Taeyeon is often called the “vocal queen” of K-pop. She is the leader of Girls’ Generation and has been proving her skill for years. She can sing softly in songs like Fine but also hit huge high notes in songs like I.
Her speciality is her control as she doesn’t just have range, she knows how to use it well. She can sing gently, powerfully, or even heartbreakingly depending on the song and that’s why many younger idols name her as their role model.
2. IU
IU’s voice is one of the most flexible in K-pop, to be honest. She can also sing very high pitched notes with ease and can also sing in a softer, lower register in songs like Through the Night.
Her vocal range makes her such a rarity as she can get away with summery pop tracks, emotional ballads, and even jazzy numbers without losing her identity.
3. Jonghyun (SHINee)
SHINee’s Jonghyun’s voice was powerful yet very emotional and he could transition from deep smooth notes to high ones very easily.
His range can be heard in songs like ‘End of a Day’ and ‘Breathe’ in which he hits the notes but, more importantly, pours emotion into them. Many fans, as well as Kpop singers, regard him still today as one of the greatest vocalists in the history of K-pop.
4. Rosé (BLACKPINK)
Rosé’s is one of those voices that can always be recognized. It is rather thin, airy, and mostly stays on the high side. However, she does have the ability to hit lower notes as well.
A great example of what she’s capable of as a singer is her solo On The Ground as she shifts betwen low verses and building to high powerful choruses. Her full range gives her solos much depth and makes her stand out among Kpop girl groups.
5. Chen (EXO)
Many Kpop fans gush over how amazing Chen’s vocal abilities are as he effortlessly hits those high notes, however, his lower range is not bad either. The balance makes him very flexible as a singer.
He shows control in the low notes in Beautiful Goodbye, then glides smoothly to higher parts. In EXO songs like Don’t Go, he adds some intensity with his high register. It’s Chen’s range that helps make EXO’s music sound so imposing.
6. Wendy (Red Velvet)
She plays the role of the main vocalist in Red Velvet. The reason for her fame is her delicate singing abilities along with powerful high notes.
Her solo When This Rain Stops highlights her ability to handle both soft lows and big highs. In group songs like Psycho, her vocals blend beautifully with the others while still standing out. Wendy’s live performances often sound just as good as studio recordings, proving her skill.
7. D.O. (EXO)
D.O., of EXO, has a really solid voice. He does not frequently peak at the highest notes, but his range is still very impressive. His biggest strength is his smooth transition and warm tone.
In his solo song That’s Okay, D.O. sings low to mid-high notes with ease, and the transition gives the song a steady and emotional feel. D.O.’s vocal range in EXO’s music adds to the overall balance of the other members’ voices which makes the group complete.
8. Ailee
Widely regarded as one of the best female vocalists in Korea, Ailee is known for her wide vocal range as well as the powerfulness of her voice.
Ailee is capable of singing soft low parts and then switching to strong high belts in the same song with almost no effort. Her vocal range makes her one of the best Kpop singers in the Kpop industry.
- Jungkook (BTS)
Jungkook’s vocal range is no joke as he can sing soft ballads, as well as the more energetic pop songs very easily. His smooth lower notes transitioning into emotional high notes in Euphoria is so emotional and fantastic. Also, the Still With You solo showcases his vocal mastery and the fans were full of praise for his skills.
10. Solar (MAMAMOO)
MAMAMOO’s leader Solar is capable of commanding a wide vocal range and power, and is exceedingly flexible with both her higher head voice and lower chest voice.
Solar’s versatility is apparent during her solo live performances and showcases. Her range and agility allow her to deliver her part with added power and affect when it comes to MAMAMOO’s music.
Why Vocal Range Matters
Good vocal range is not the primary trait that determines a singer’s greatness, but it is worthy of note. Even if a singer’s artistry is at times limited by a smaller vocal range, singers are able to explore and access music of various genres and connect with the fan on an emotional level. Vocal range allows an artist to deliver additional levels, and engage with the audience on a live stage in ways that are memorable and impactful.
Conclusion
When all the noisy negatives are presented regarding K-pop being “just” visuals, or choreography, these singers provide an appropriate rebuttal. No matter what is performed, these vocalists bring art and sincerity as evident in the range of their voice (and via their performance) and are capable of drawing a genuine feeling with their audiences every time.