K-Pop has lost one of its most legendary producers Shinsadong Tiger. The maestro, known for producing classics such as ‘Up & Down’ (for the girl group EXID, ‘Thriller’ for BtoB, ‘Mastermind’ by Beast, Apink’s ‘No No No’ etc, was found dead in his recording studio on Thursday. He was 41 years old.
According to a report by The Korea Herald, the composer was found dead by an acquaintance, who travelled to his studio after the producer didn’t respond to calls.
Born as Lee Ho-Yang, Shinsadong Tiger was one of the most renowned names in K-Pop. In a career spanning over two decades, he produced many chartbusters such as T-ARA’s ‘Roly Poly’, Apink’s ‘NoNoNo’, EXID’s ‘Up&Down’ and Momoland’s ‘Bboom Bboom’. However, he was often criticised for not being experimental and following popular music trends.
TIiger began his musical journey in 2012, at the tender age of 18. He often had to do odd jobs to fund his musical career. In 2012, he floated his own music label AB Entertainment, and launched the girl group EXID. In 2021, he was credited as a producer for the agency TR Entertainment, where he launched the girl group Tri.be.
According to the Yonhap News Agency, the composer was undergoing financial difficulties and had pleaded for debt relief support multiple times to local courts.
The cause of Lee’s demise is unknown. Currently, the Seoul police do not suspect foul play or suicide.