ATEEZ is known for being a successful self-produced idol group, with many acknowledging Hongjoong as one of the producers involved in ATEEZ’s releases alongside EDEN and MADDOX. However, Mingi’s contributions to production often go unnoticed. Mingi is currently in 6th place with 54 songs as of 2021 in the list of 4th Gen Idols with the most songwriting credits, yet many fans don’t give him the credit he deserves. Although Mingi hasn’t shared extensively about his journey as a music producer, he has given us glimpses of his work. This article I’m writing will hopefully highlight his achievements and contributions.
Early Beginnings
Similar to Hongjoong, Mingi’s debut as a music producer started with ATEEZ’s first release “From” during their KQ Fellaz era and Treasure Ep.1: All to Zero. Since then, Mingi has continued to co-write and produce almost all of ATEEZ’s releases.
Production Work
In 2022, Mingi gave fans a peek into his life as a music producer when he attended a 3-day Songwriting Camp in LA, working on 3-4 songs simultaneously. Although it didn’t showcase all his skills, Mingi explained the process and the elements they were adding to the songs. He actively contributed during the songwriting process, and many fans commented on how he seemed in his element in the studio. At the end of the video, Mingi shared how he felt really happy during his time working with other producers he liked and how he enjoys songwriting very much :)
Solo Releases
Over the past two years, Mingi has released two solo songs and one duet with Yunho, showcasing his true talent as a music producer and songwriter. The first song, untitled, was released on his birthday as a gift to ATINY. Fully written, produced, composed, and sung by Mingi himself, the song captures his emotions of fear, sadness, and feeling overwhelmed, showing a vulnerable side to fans. Similarly, his next two releases also reflect deep emotions, with “YOUTH,” the duet with Yunho, rumored to be about his and Yunho’s feelings during his hiatus.
Philosophy and Impact
What I admire most about Mingi’s work is his use of music to express his emotions and communicate with ATINY. Mingi once said he wants ATEEZ to be like ATINY’s friends, who smile together and cry with them during hard times. He works hard to achieve this by releasing songs that fans can relate to.
Mingi’s love for his job, his fans, his members, and the producers he works with is evident in his music and is something I truly admire and respect. Despite being a rapper, he has broken stereotypes by singing in two out of three of his solo releases, his singing voice full of emotion and passion. Mingi’s passion and love for music make his work stand out, as he constantly puts effort and heart into his productions. This dedication and genuine passion are what I particularly look up to in Mingi and his music and is something I hope to have someday too.
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