Jonghyun, a member of the K-pop band SHINee, said “Deja-BOO” best captures his musical style and color. 

“I personally like this song a lot, and that is the reason behind selecting it as one of the two title songs of the album,” the singer told the press before a live showcase on Thursday at the SMTOWN Coex Atrium in Samseong-dong, southern Seoul. “That is also why I decided to prerelease it.”

Written by the singer himself, the funky retro song is among the seven tracks on his first solo EP, “BASE,” which he unveiled earlier in the day.

Released Wednesday before the unveiling of the full album, “Deja-BOO” topped the local music charts, including Genie, Melon and Naver Music.

“To be honest, I am not confident in singing ballad songs,” the singer said. “Fans have loved my ballads in the past, but I am not really good at” singing them, he added.

“For this album, I focused on introducing my style of music and what I would like to pursue in my musical career.”

That is why the album was named “BASE of JONGHYUN,” he explained. “I wanted to make an album filled with songs I like, and work with musicians who inspired me.”

Some renowned musicians and artists collaborated with Jonghyun on the album. “Deja-BOO” features hip-hop musician Zion. T.

Younha, Wheesung and IRON also participated on the album. 

Jonghyun’s solo venture follows the release of fellow SHINee member Taemin’s first solo EP, “ACE,” last year.

Jonghyun said that although he performed on stage alone, he could feel the presence of other members cheering for him.

“BASE” will be available for purchase both online and in traditional stores starting from Jan. 12.

By Ahn Sung-mi (sahn@heraldcorp.com)