Chapter 345: Chapter 346:

The “Christmas Special” logo flashed on the screen as the male and female MCs, donning Santa hats, introduced the special stage.

After a cute dance routine set to the rhythm of a famous carol, they exclaimed:

Merry Christmas!

Broadcasting live, the heart of the Hallyu wave and K-pop, Music On~!

The MCs smoothly delivered their prepared Christmas greetings and introduced the lineup of performers.

AFB, Iris, High Color, ENOT! We’ve also prepared a joint carol stage featuring this year’s hottest rookies!

Serenity! Wild!

And New Black, the trendsetting idol group that rose to fame in 2015!

As the bold captions for New Black passed by, the names of TNT and Teen Spirit also appeared.

Shall we start with the first performance? Music~

On!

The signature pose pointing to the camera transitioned into the rookie idols’ carol performance.

Christmas Special.

This special featured not only the year’s most famous songs but also many beloved carols covered by the artists.

The vocal lines of Iris and AFB gathered to sing “All I Want For Christmas,” while the girl group High Color performed their title track rearranged in a carol style.

Meanwhile, the idol community was buzzing with live comments from fans watching the show.

The rookie pool is pretty cool this year too.

Yeah, last year was crazy, but this year’s lineup is honestly great.

New Black and Serenity… considering their talent, it really has been an insane year.

AFB’s main vocalist is good, right? Isn’t he the junior from the military?

Famous for his smile, Uju is the only idol who frowns, lol.

What kind of intense training did they do in the military to produce an idol main vocalist, lol?

The girls from High Color kind of look like TJ.

After discussions about the rookies’ joint performance,

The latter half of Music On began, and New Black’s stage started, sparking a flurry of posts.

Bijoo, I’m crying!

“Wind Flower” is a banger no matter how many times I hear it.

Not sure if it’s because of the album color, but from the intro, Bijoo really stands out.

Today’s outfits are so cute, for real, lol.

But I’m curious about the carol they said they prepared, lol. Feels like something amazing is going to pop out.

Remember this; roasted sweet potatoes, roasted chestnuts. It’s New Black.

The forum, which had been quiet, suddenly became lively with the influx of new fans after the awards.

As other idol fans exclaimed, “There are so many…” in awe,

The simple title “New Black – Merry Christmas” appeared as a caption at the bottom of the screen, and the song began.

“Wow.”

I knew a Christmas carol was going to be pre-released.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

But since it was described as a fan song, I only had modest expectations.

If they had really planned to make a hit out of the carol, they would have released it earlier.

Fans, expecting a light song for fan service, blinked in surprise.

“What? It’s actually good…?”

On the screen, members dressed in Christmas attire swayed lightly to the rhythm, like a dance.

A refreshing melody filled my ears.

It reminded me of the carols that used to play from old speakers when I walked down the street or entered a store as a child.

The music set, filled with red boxes and twinkling Christmas trees, merged with the song, evoking an imaginary Christmas village.

I could almost see Santa riding his sleigh pulled by Rudolph over snow-covered hills, with white smoke rising from chimneys and elves busily wrapping gifts.

When Rihyuk ended the song with a staccato, singing “Riding the sleigh ta-ta-ta” with a warm smile,

Amazing, I’m crying!

The song is really good… Thank you, Uju, for coming to Earth.

It’s so good, I’m crying!

The alternating parts between Bijoo and Jiho are so good. This combination is the best.

Today, their voices and visuals are killing it, for real.

Just like offline, the online response was positive.

Being a fan means loving your idol’s songs, but when the song is objectively good, it brings even more joy.

“It feels like there should be an original version of this song.”

It wouldn’t feel out of place if the album booklet said, “[This song has been a leading Christmas carol since 1953, remade countless times…].”

Though I couldn’t find the same song, it had a classic vibe.

It was as if they had arranged a virtual original song into a 2010s version and covered it.

“Could there be any problem?”

The sense of déjà vu made me worry if a similar song existed that could cause an issue.

The Soufflés chuckled and shook their heads in disbelief.

“No way, that can’t be right.”

I was reminded of music enthusiasts who, upon hearing a song from the '70s or '60s on a variety show, would exclaim with joy, recognizing a favorite tune.

It was impossible for Woojoo not to know which carols were available.

Yet, the thought crossed my mind that perhaps the song was just too good…

The song is freaking awesome LOL

Seems like the perfect carol for Korean sentiment

If they release a stage video, the original is definitely charting

Did they adapt the lyrics to Korean for a fan song? Curious about the original lyrics

Riding on a sleigh, ta-ta-ta-ta-ta

Puzzled by the odd reactions of other fans, the Soufflés soon realized something.

“Ah…”

They were the only ones aware that it was a pre-released track, while other fans naturally perceived it as one among countless cover songs.

After clearing up the misunderstanding with an explanation…

If this is the original, isn’t it even more amazing?

It’s not even the title track, but if it’s included in the album, that’s really something

?? The song is this good, why did Kyuho release it on Christmas Day? Should’ve been earlier

Can’t see his head, how would I know what’s in his head?

Kyuho: Kyoo?

Seems like it was released for an event, but this is definitely charting LOL

Soon after, sarcastic posts started appearing, “Honestly, with New Black, even this would chart LOL,” as if preparing to later write, “Hey hey hey! New Black’s pre-released album track didn’t chart!”

Meanwhile…

Humming the catchy chorus, “Riding on a sleigh, ta-ta-ta-ta-ta,” the Soufflés fiddled with their smartphones.

“Why didn’t they release this gem earlier?”

The question deepened.

The weekend flew by busily.

The day after appearing on PBS’s MusicOn Christmas special, Saturday was spent on TBC’s year-end wrap-up special.

Just like the day before, after performing Windflower’s stage…

“Yaaaay!”

“Finally, this year’s music broadcasts are over!”

We celebrated joyfully in the car on the way to the hair salon.

Though there were still three major network year-end stages left, the end of all this year’s music broadcasts was a happy thought.

It felt real that 2015 was coming to a close.

“Guys! Guys! It’s snowing outside!”

“Wowwww!”

“Can we open the window for a bit when the car stops? I want to touch the snowflakes.”

As the evening darkened, traffic lights and the headlights and taillights of cars painted the air with colorful lights.

Snow was falling from the sky.

Suddenly, I remembered the day last year when I went to the DNS building to practice for the year-end joint stage with Street Boys.

“Time flies so fast…”

“Right. Rihyuk is an adult now, and next year, I’ll be a senior in high school.”

“Not much time left for you either.”

“Eh, it’s better than being twenty-four next year.”

“…I’ll definitely laugh at you when you go to the military. For real.”

While the youngest laughed, we all gazed out at the falling snow, lost in thought.

A calm voice that could lull one to sleep flowed from the radio.

“The next song we’ll play brings a warm end-of-year atmosphere. Truly, as you listen, you’ll feel it’s a carol meant just for you. New Black’s ‘Merry Christmas.’”

The radio was quick to reflect trends.

To think that the song released just last evening was already on tonight’s radio playlist.

Rihyuk asked,

“I don’t get why everyone loves it like it’s their own song. It’s a fan song I made for the Soufflés.”

“Maybe it’s like the Soufflé bread case.”

“But even my mom says the carol is so nice. She says it feels like winter when she plays it while having coffee.”

As we talked, Minki, who was tapping the steering wheel with his fingers, said,

“I think I get what you mean.”

“Huh?”

“You wrote the lyrics for the fans to listen to, but it feels like it’s being sung just to me. It reminds me of the old days.”

“…?”

“Simply put, it’s the kind of vibe that old folks like me enjoy.”

“Ah, I see.”

As we burst into laughter, saying, “We got it right away,” the manager in his early thirties couldn’t help but look somber.

While chatting away, we browsed the internet.

Thanks to the fans’ streaming after yesterday’s performance, “Merry Christmas” had entered the charts.

Perhaps it was due to the title ‘New Black.’

As time passed, the ranking climbed, and by the next evening, it was high enough to threaten ‘Nine.’

New Black, fan song ‘Merry Christmas,’ enters Mango real-time chart

‘New Black’ to come back next month (January), pre-release carol revealed

“As expected of the digital monster,” New Black’s pre-released carol enters the chart

We laughed at the comments from adults on the music site’s review section, saying, “It seems like a really warm song.”

“If we knew the reaction would be this good, we should have released it earlier.” “Exactly.”

It was an outcome none of us had anticipated.

The A&R team, the producing team, and even Producer Ha Seung-Joo and Director Jo had all praised the carol, saying, “You’ve made a good carol.”

But no one knew the reaction would be this good.

It was just a thought, “Shall we release it as a fan service for Christmas?”

The youngest member spoke up.

“But now I’m like, wow, is it good? Back then, after hearing the title and the tracks, it was just so-so.” “Right. It had a relatively mild impression.”

The carol had been overshadowed by the other tracks included in the special album.

As the carol season was coming to an end, it was a pity to see such praise for the carol, but on the other hand, it was quite pleasing.

It seemed like the title track would receive an even better response.

I said with a bright smile.

“Roasted sweet potatoes.” “Roasted chestnuts.”

And then we all high-fived and shouted together.

“New Black!” “Steamed buns?”

When Jung-hyun wondered, “Isn’t it steamed buns?” we resolved once again to become the winter trio.

Meanwhile, our carol joyfully resonated around us.

After getting dolled up at the shop.

We visited the Yeouido PBS broadcasting station once again.

“Wow…”

The new public hall.

Waiting backstage, we marveled at the sight beyond the stage.

“It feels like a completely different place.” “It looks like they just set up tables, but the atmosphere is totally different from yesterday.”

Where there used to be jib cameras and staff lined up for music broadcasts, today it was filled with tables.

[2015 PBS Entertainment Awards]

Such VCRs twinkled from every direction.

It was an award ceremony for PBS’s variety shows aired that year.

In front of the audience filled with various placards, entertainers and actors dressed in tuxedos and dresses were visible.

“Wow…”

It felt like a rare visit to the entertainment world, unlike when we were with the 6-year veteran idol seniors.

“Wow, there’s Senior Kwak Si-Hyun. Kwak Si-Hyun.” “Wow.”

Actor Kwak Si-Hyun, the face of Lemon Entertainment and called a Hallyu top star, sat elegantly in a black dress.

It was fascinating to see a face I had only seen in movies.

He had made a surprise appearance due to a movie-related project with the popular PBS variety show ‘Mr. Producer,’ a face that was really hard to see if not for such award ceremonies.

“It’s really hard to see him even at the company. Maybe I’ll go get an autograph later. Wow. Wow.” “Do you like him that much?” “He acts so well. Really.”

Our aspiring actor’s eyes shone especially bright.

There were also many entertainers I saw for the first time today.

The cast of ‘Mr. Producer,’ considered one of the two national variety shows along with Joo Se-Han, was also a first.

“There are so many seniors I haven’t seen in a long time…”

Maxi, wearing a leopard print outfit and a black jacket, was waving a placard that read ‘Maxi is Hot.’

Comedians Seo Ji-Hyung and Oh Hyung-Seok, whom I had seen on Joo Se-Han, were also there.

The PD of Myeonggokdan, who was happily smiling due to the soaring ratings this year, was also present.

Jung-hyun said.

“It feels like when I appeared on Joo Se-Han. Back then, I was also amazed when I saw the seniors for the first time.” “Huh? Jung-hyun, did you go ‘wow’ too?”

“Yes.”

“I didn’t think it was.”

During such an exchange, I couldn’t help but smile pleasantly, feeling the stage fright I hadn’t felt in a while.

“Here are the special guest singers who have graced us with their presence at today’s Entertainment Awards!”

While the announcer, Baek Sang-jung, was introducing us, the assistant director gestured to me from the side.

“I’ll go now.”

Nodding, I made my way up to the stage.

“Let’s enjoy the first part’s closing performance by New Black!”

As the spotlight shone down like direct sunlight, we gathered in formation on stage, beaming brightly.

With the prelude of “Nine,” cheers erupted from the audience.

“Wowww!”

While the actors clapped softly, the entertainers also cheered, exclaiming, “It’s New Black!” and clapping along.

I caught a glimpse of Seo Ji-hyung being restrained by those around him as he cheered, “Our New Black!”

Jiho grabbed the microphone and shouted.

“Entertainment Awards! Make some noise~!”

“Wowww!”

The stage then came alive with “Nine,” and the audience’s warm response matched our energy.

Some entertainers comically followed the point choreography in front of the cameras.

Every time we pointed out nominees for the Entertainment Awards, everyone responded with good cheer.

“Wowww-!”

“Thank you! Have a wonderful night!”

After waving to the camera to conclude the first part, the lights dimmed, bringing the first half of the Entertainment Awards to a close.

As commercials played on the public hall TV, people bustled about, heading to the restroom or touching up their makeup.

And then…

“New Black!”

Familiar entertainers approached to greet us.

Some, whom we hadn’t spoken much with, warmly complimented our recent songs.

Maxi, from a distance, waved a placard at us with a distant smile.

Even among the audience, some stopped on their way to the restroom, curious to watch us.

Comedian Oh Hyung-seok asked,

“Can I take a commemorative selfie?”

“Of course.”

“Let’s gather for a selfie with New Black!”

As we took selfies with various tables, sending finger hearts,

A tall man in a hoodie approached us.

“Hello. It’s my first time seeing you.”

“Hello!”

PD Shin Mu-rok of PBS’s ‘Mr. Producer,’ smiled with his characteristic sullen expression.

“I’ve seen this year’s shows. Any chance you’d appear on our program?”

It was an impromptu invitation.

We looked at each other with wide eyes and nodded.

“That would be great. We’d love to.”

“We’re preparing a new project for next year, and I think it would be fun to work together.”

We thanked him with bright smiles, asking those around us, “You heard that, right?”

He then handed us a paper.

“Could you sign this with the name ‘Shin Myung-soo’?”

“Sure!”

While signing, I asked with a smile,

“How old is Myung-soo?”

“He’s my father, 66 years old. He keeps asking when New Black will be on ‘Myung-gok-dan’ again.”

“Oh…”

I wrote, “Wishing you longevity,” and the onlookers chuckled at my comment.

As we prepared to return for the second part,

“Wow. Amazing…”

We were delighted by the sudden entertainment booking request.

Suddenly, the youngest member, who had disappeared, came running back, face flushed, holding an autograph.

“I got the signature!”

“Are you that happy?”

“No, it’s more than that…”

Jiho laughed joyfully.

“The actor’s daughter is a fan, so I did a quick video call. She cried when she saw me.”

I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of video calling the family of an actor I admired.

New Black was in the midst of a hectic end-of-year schedule, with no time to rest.

Sunday.

It was just a few hours before the HBS Music Awards were to begin. The Soufflés were seated in front of the TV.

“Dad! The ‘Legendary Song Squad’ has just started!”

“I’m coming!”

“Mom, come quickly! You love this show!”

It was ‘Challenge, Legendary Song Squad,’ the program most beloved by the middle-aged and elderly viewers this year.

As the phrase “Suitable for All Ages” faded, the screen brightened.

With the keyword [Live Broadcast] emblazoned at the top, the MC appeared before the audience.

“What’s on today?”

“They’ve gathered all the singers who appeared this year for a live performance. There’s also a special stage.”

“Oh, look, it says it’s the ‘End-of-Year King of Kings Special.’”

“NewBlack is performing too.”

At that, the family nodded in agreement.

“They’ve been off the air for a while, haven’t they? Didn’t they say they were leaving the show?”

“Seems like they’re making a brief appearance.”

“It would be nice if they did more. They don’t perform anywhere else but on ‘Legendary Song Squad.’”

Amidst such conversations, the performances of the ‘Legendary Song Squad’ singers continued.

Cha Woo-hyun, Jo Yuri Band, Lisa, Song Bo-hyung, and others.

After the performances of the cast members who contributed to the creation of the current ‘Legendary Song Squad’ as first-generation members.

The stage for NewBlack’s ‘Life’ followed.

As the members sang with emotion, the audience’s reaction to their improved vocal skills flowed out from the TV.

After the lingering performance of ‘Life.’

“We’ve also prepared a carol for today’s special stage, may we show it?”

“Yeees!”

“I was asking the audience, not our members.”

When the audience laughed and replied with a ‘Yes!’ NewBlack’s carol performance followed.

Just like the reactions of those who saw the carol on the music broadcast, the viewers at home also responded favorably.

“Oh my, that song is nice.”

“They sing well.”

As the refrain ‘Riding a Sleigh’ echoed in their ears, leaving a lasting impression, NewBlack’s performance ended.

The devoted viewers watching ‘Legendary Song Squad’ at home said,

“That’s a really good song for these times.”

“Right?”

The Soufflés smiled brightly and said,

“NewBlack will be on the HBS Music Awards later. Do you want to watch it together?”

“Are they appearing again?”

“Yes, I think they might sing the carol again.”

“Oh…”

The parents sent positive signals.

It was the moment when the viewers, who usually had no interest in the year-end stages featuring idols, joined the HBS Music Awards, riding on the wave of the ‘Legendary Song Squad.’

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