Written by: @sunnyhyucks_
1. Welcome To My Playground – NCT 127
Album: Regulate
Year of release: 2018
Genre: Pop
Our playlist kicks off with the bright b-side, ‘Welcome To My Playground’. As you can guess from the title, this song has a playful yet easy-going melody, sure to lift your spirits without being overwhelmingly energetic.
“After I met you
This city shines, wherever I go
It makes me into a child
I want to play however I want”
Despite being a side track on a repackaged album, it’s a favorite among NCTzen, as both a comfort song or song for a sunny day! Based on the cheerful chorus, it definitely leaves you feeling energised.
NCity’s reviews
@monskynyaw: “(It’s) a really fun playful song.”
@ltyssw: “Jungwoo’s voice alone is sunshine personified in this song. It always brings me to a good mood whenever this song starts playing.”
@mrkieezone: “it makes me really happy and i feel like its a song that everyone can vibe too”
2. We Go Up – NCT Dream
Album: We Go Up
Year of release: 2018
Genre: Urban hip-hop
‘We Go Up’ is the title track of NCT Dream’s EP of the same name. It’s an upbeat hip-hop track with ‘retro vibes’ that leaves you feeling nostalgic. Paired with lyrics expressing NCT Dream’s teamwork that remains as they go on to bigger stages, you’ll be thinking about the days you’ve spent with your own group of friends back in school.
“Trying to fly a bit higher
Memories of the days that made me shine
Even when I lacked so much, it makes me more beautiful
Let’s end this track, next stage, we go up”
The refreshing cowbell beat and the clear vocals of the Dreamies give this song its cheerful tone so you can’t help but smile as you reminisce old times.
* Fun fact: Bazzi co-wrote this song with Mark Lee!
NCity’s reviews:
@unwhitewashyuck: “Youthful, inspirational, catchy”
@NE0BABIE : “(This song) never aged. It has very nice and unique sounds that no one can pull off but them.”
3. Love Song – NCT 127
Album: Neozone
Year of release: 2020
Genre: R&B
This side track from NCT 127’s second full album, Neo Zone, is a smooth R&B track that’s littered with interesting ad libs and lovely vocals. With its Korean title ‘우산’ [romanised: woo-san], that translates to ‘Umbrella’, the track is about a love story unfolding under the rain.
“I can see my reflection inside your eyes since we’re this close
When you look at me while smiling,
I feel like my heart drops to my knees”
This song had the most votes for ‘song for a rainy day’. It’s clear its sweet lyrics are reminiscent of romance clichés, and the groovy beat and the angelic vocals and rap stole NCTzen hearts. While most rainy day songs tend to be melancholic, you can switch up your rainy day playlist with this light-hearted track. So next time it pours, make sure to put on your headphones and enjoy the weather while listening to NCT 127!
NCity’s reviews:
@66jwi: “… a song I can put on repeat and not get annoyed by.”
@onleeyunoh: “Hyuckil intro>>>> and the lyrics were just cute and very chill”
4. Electric hearts – WayV
Album: Awaken the World
Year of release: 2020
Genre: Electronic
Track no. 9 of WayV’s first full album, “Electric Hearts”, earns its place on our playlist with its addictive beat. The member’s voices, particularly Ten and Xiaojun’s, compliment the funky feel of the chorus with their unique colors.
“Heaven knows I’m falling
I can never be the same…”
This is a supercharged love song that will tempt you to sing along. Yangyang and Hendery took part in the lyric writing, making the song even more heartfelt.
* Fun fact: Adrian Mckinnon took part in producing this track. He’s produced other popular songs in K-Pop including Super M’s ‘Jopping’, Exo’s ‘Lotto’ and SHINee’s ‘View’.
NCity’s reviews:
@NE0BABIE: “… everytime I hear it, I feel so happy and (it) always makes my day.”
5. Puzzle Piece – NCT Dream
Album: Reload
Year of release: 2020
Genre: Acoustic Ballad
‘Puzzle Piece’ is a track from NCT Dream’s most recent EP ‘Reload’. The melodious guitar paired with warm vocals makes for an intimate song that pulls on your heartstrings. As cold weather, this is the perfect addition to your playlist.
“You’re my missing puzzle piece
Finally I solved it
You filled every piece of my heart
Even the scarred part of it to the fullest
And somehow, you’ve become my everything
My missing puzzle piece”
When it was first released, many fans expressed their joy over Jisung’s growth as a vocalist. Jeno and Jaemin also contributed to writing the sincere lyrics. Besides that, main vocalist Haechan was able to showcase his vocal color, a unique blend of raspy and airy, that really brings out the intimacy of the track.
NCity’s reviews:
Anonymous: “It’s a really comforting song. It feels as if you’re sitting round a campfire with your best friends and healing.”
6. Let me love you – WayV
Album: Take off
Year of release: 2019
Genre: R&B/Pop
WayV serenades us once again with a song expressing their adoration and affection. Similar to ‘Puzzle Piece’, the acoustic guitar creates an intimate setting as if they’re literally serenading us live. However, the upbeat drum set, the additional instruments, and various effects shaped this song into a more fun, lighthearted piece.
“Every minute, every second, I love you, love you”
Some fans consider this song their comfort song, while others consider it to be a song for a sunny day, showing just how versatile it is. Either way, WayV’s charm shines through this track and will make you fall in love with them for sure!
NCity’s reviews:
@jj19285: “It is such a sweet song.”
7. Simon says – NCT 127
Album: Regulate
Year of release: 2018
Genre: Pop
It’s no surprise popular bop ‘Simon Says’, from NCT 127’s repackage album ‘Regulate’, earned its place in our playlist! Many mentioned this song to be their all-time favorite of all NCT title tracks. A common reason seems to be its interesting and “bouncy” instrumental and the “killer bridge” that you simply cannot stop listening to.
“Don’t be afraid
The only one stopping you is you
Don’t misunderstand
Today, we break the rules
Open your eyes and wake up
Fall deep inside
The moment you find your true self between reality and dreams”
This track is known for being a distinct change in NCT’s style and it may have been a hit or miss with some listeners. However, there is no denying the members were able to let their vocals and rap lines shine equally, with Taeil’s sustained high note and Taeyong’s opening rap being some of the highlights of the song. Not to mention, this song is littered with ad libs that add to the instrumental that gets increasingly ‘messy’ as the song reaches its climax.
* Fun fact: At the end, the instrumental cuts off just before Mark finishes his line and his voice is the last thing you hear followed by a short breath.
NCity’s reviews:
@2thesunandback: “Because it has the vibe that i really into, like you can dance with the flow, and it has a really unique intro, actually i like 7th sense too but i’ll just go with simon says instead”
8. Don’t Need Your Love – NCT Dream (feat. HRVY)
Year of release: 2019
Genre: Synth-pop
‘Don’t Need Your Love’ was released as an SM Station and features English singer, HRVY. With its cool guitar and synthesizer rhythm, it delivers a bright and catchy tune that hooks you in. But despite its bright and cheerful sounding instrumental, its lyrics present a bleak view on love.
“Memories are fading
Even the way I used to look at you
Just like the wind never lingers
Yeah I’ll just pass you by”
In HRVY’s words, “for those who have been dumped, had a break up, or dealing with a broken heart”, this is the track for you. The energy the boys gave into this track motivates you to get back up stronger too. For the Sunflowers out there who were disappointed Haechan couldn’t participate in the song, be sure to check out the live version that was recorded from The Dream Show.
* Fun fact: HRVY was born in 1999, which makes him the same age as Mark. It’s no wonder he could mix with the Dreamies so well!
NCity’s reviews:
@vioietjaehyun: “BRUH UR TELLING ME THIS AINT A BREAK UP ANTHEM???? or an anytime anthem??? RENJUN CRIES. HE SOBS. It’s also so funky and addictive… ”
9. Yestoday – NCT U
Album: Empathy
Year of release: 2018
Genre: Old-school hip-hop
This track from NCT 2018’s album, ‘Empathy’, reflects on the passing of time and the difference between the ‘me’ from the past and the present. It’s a rap-heavy song with Taeyong and Mark having the longest verses filled with personal thoughts comparing their past selves to the present, and Lucas’s rap addressing the loss and loneliness felt by the present self. The light and hazy instrumental paired with Doyoung’s bright vocal captures the dream-like and sentimental vibe of the song.
“My exhausted mind and soul
Somehow you always tried to drag those days away
I wondered how can you be so strong uh
I was busy filling up with greed
But I’ve lost a lot”
The lyrics deal with the concepts of past versus present, loss of self, and the exhaustion that comes with chasing one’s dream. It’s no surprise this track brings comfort, maybe even motivation, to many. While you work towards your dream, note the sacrifices that you have to make.
NCity’s reviews:
Anonymous : “I relate a lot to the lyrics”
@skydancer_8: “Well bless me with doyoungs vocals pls”
10. No Longer – NCT 127
Album: Regular-Irregular
Year of release: 2018
Genre: Ballad
No NCT autumn playlist would be complete without this track from NCT 127’s first full album, ‘Regular-Irregular’. The heart-wrenching ballad expresses one’s yearning for an unrequited love—the perfect song to accompany you on a cold day. It features NCT 127’s vocal line: Taeil, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo and Haechan.
“I love you, I love you, I’ll tell you all of my heart
Share your scars with me
I’m running to you right now
Because all of my moments want you”
The track opens with a soft piano melody which sets the mood for the rest of the song and it is accompanied by a quiet and muffled drum set. With the quiet instrumental, the vocals, along with the backing vocals and ad libs, are able to be in the forefront. Breaths and the natural raspiness of the human voice are left in the official recording and add the genuine touch to the track, simulating a live performance. Hence, the reason most fans have applauded the track’s ability to portray the pain of heartbreak.
NCity’s reviews:
@notkibum: “… This may be biased but haechan’s parts were the crème de la crème for me.”
@mangospin_: “It makes me cry every time I hear it.”
11. Dear Dream – NCT Dream
Album: We Go Up
Year of release: 2018
Genre: Hip-hop/Pop
As opposed to our last heartbreaking track, this track is a heartwarming celebration of memories. NCTzens know this song as Mark’s graduation song and while that made most of us sad, the song itself was able to provide a more positive view on separation.
“Even if we’re on the same boat, we are on a different ocean
But I will continue to always be the lighthouse
You can rely on”
With lyrics that detail the feelings of one who will be separating from his ‘home’, it leaves a bittersweet taste in our mouths. However, there is a sense of positivity in the track, with its bright sounding instrumental and lyrics like “Don’t forget we are in touch,” which reminds us the separation isn’t permanent.
NCity’s reviews:
Anonymous: “This song makes me cry, especially when it comes to Mark’s last rap.”
12. Coming Home – NCT U
Album: –
Year of release: 2019
Genre: Ballad
‘Coming Home’ by NCT U is another well-loved SM Station track Released December 2019, the track fits the cold season really well with lyrics of finding comfort during hard times. The different vocal colors of the four NCT members bring the story to life. With Jaehyun’s warm baritone voice, Taeil’s clear and distinct tone (and not to mention, his powerful belts), Haechan’s uniquely high and breathy voice, and Doyoung’s airy and expressive voice, the four were able to convey the yearning for comfort.
“Right when the journey is over
I will know
Then I’ll hold you tight like before
I won’t even ask
And I’ll go back to you
I’m coming home”
Besides their vocals, the structure of the chorus leaves you feeling almost unsatisfied as it goes higher as if heading towards a climax, only to be brought back down to its next verse. This increases the impact of the final chorus where Taeil finally hits the long awaited high note that completes the progression. It gives a hopeful ending, as if they have finally found their way back home.
NCity’s reviews:
Anonymous: “The vocal line SERVED.”
13. Face to face – WayV
Album: Take Over The Moon
Year of release: 2019
Genre: Ballad
‘Face To Face’ is track no. 6 of WayV’s 2nd EP, ‘Take Over The Moon’. It’s a calming ballad with words of reassurance. The hushed voices of the members effectively convey the comforting lyrics, making this a good healing track. Once again, some fans have this song saved for a rainy day while others have it on their study playlist. Either way, the relaxed beat could help you unwind or focus on your tasks.
“Please open your eyes and try to feel this warmth
I will make sure that you redress all your grievances”
The track is cyclical in nature with Xiaojun’s quiet opening line accompanied by a piano. The song mainly retains the same calm atmosphere throughout, except for the bridge where it starts to get a little louder and more assertive. But we’re faced with the same hushed tone from Xiaojun in the last verse, which mirrors the introduction. This cycle somewhat enforces the idea of staying by your side through everything, just as the lyrics mention.
NCity’s reviews:
@jaehyuniepot: “Their vocals are insane in this and makes me long for a lover I don’t have lol”
14. Not Alone – NCT 127
Album: NeoZone
Year of release: 2020
Genre: Synth-pop
‘Not Alone’ from NCT 127’s album ‘Neo Zone’ is a comfort song for NCTzens. It has a chill beat that drives the song forward, but most of the interesting elements lie in the vocals and effects placed on it.
“On this path that we walk together
We’re never alone…”
The song is filled with echoes and repeated melodies that engulf you. As you bask in their gentle vocals, take the time to appreciate their lovely ad libs, which add to the effects the track tries to achieve. In the last chorus, Haechan’s ad lib perfectly washes over the main vocals, almost like the sun shining through the cracks in your window blinds. Taeil and Doyoung’s ad libs also elevate the chorus by adding more layers to a chorus that we have already heard twice before. Generally, this song is a dreamy, feel-good song that reminds you that no matter whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone and to take it step by step.
* Fun fact: If you listen carefully, you can pick up on the slight echo effects added to every line in the first verse, the second verse and the bridge.
NCity’s reviews:
@sunnyhyucks_: “This song was able to comfort me and became my go-to for a bad day. The lyrics are just so reassuring, it made me feel supported.”
15. From Home – NCT U
Album: Resonance Pt. 1
Year of release: 2020
Genre: Ballad
‘From Home’ is a track from NCT’s latest album, ‘Resonance Pt.1’. This NCT U unit consists of Taeil, Doyoung, Haechan, Yuta, Kun, Renjun and Chenle. Using this line up, the track was able to feature four languages in it: Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese. It opens up with the sound of a cassette tape being inserted into its player followed by a piano.
“’Cause I’m not alone
You became a warm home for me”
Immerse yourself in the touching melody of ‘From Home’. The harmonies of the chorus that are bright, coupled with hopeful lyrics, will warm your heart. It’s also worth noting Renjun and Doyoung’s voices are the perfect cherries on top of the harmonies. Although this song is relatively new, NCTzens have expressed their liking for it and the feelings of home and sentimentality the track brings out.
* Fun fact: In the music video, the baby pictures were shown in the order of Haechan → Renjun → Taeil → Chenle → Yuta → Kun → Doyoung → Haechan → Renjun → Taeil → Chenle → Yuta → Kun
NCity’s reviews:
@unwhitewashyuck: “Diverse, Ballad, Vocals, Unique, Inclusive”
@sunnyhyucks_: “The vocal talent exhibited in this song gives me goosebumps. And besides that, we also have four different languages being featured in one track which isn’t easy to do.”
