SHINee’s Taemin Makes Historic US Radio Debut With First English Single Long Way Home

Singer Taemin has achieved a massive milestone for Korean solo artists by successfully breaking into the mainstream American radio market with his very first English-language release. According to official music industry data on June 3, 2026, the artist’s new single, “Long Way Home,” officially landed at No. 39 on the Mediabase Top 40 Radio Airplay Chart. Mediabase is a highly respected comprehensive music database that provides deep analysis and tracking for radio airplay across the United States.

Taemin in a black blazer and tie stands against a dark background with blue abstract patterns, holding a small black bag.
Taemin’s English Single Long Way Home Is Taking Over American Radio Stations / SNS

A Dreamy Visual Narrative and Elite Global Collaborators

“Long Way Home” is a dreamy, atmospheric pop R&B ballad that captures deep feelings of longing, physical distance, and the emotional journey of finding one’s way back to where they truly belong. The track features a cinematic structure and strong emotional depth, beautifully blending a memorable melody with Taemin’s captivating vocal performance to showcase a brand-new artistic side.

To build a sophisticated, genre-crossing sound, Taemin collaborated with a highly talented international production team:

  • Ben Parris: The acclaimed global producer helped shape the song’s sleek R&B foundations.
  • Corey Marlon Lindsay-Keay (Believve): The prominent songwriter added a modern pop sensibility to the track’s expanding narrative.
Taemin seated in a stylish outfit with a dark coat, surrounded by a backstage setting with mirror lights in the background.
Taemin’s English Single Long Way Home Is Taking Over American Radio Stations / SNS

From Coachella Historic Stages to US Television Studios

This impressive radio chart entry follows an incredibly aggressive promotional campaign in the United States. Taemin has delivered breathtaking live performances of “Long Way Home” across multiple major Western media platforms, including FOX’s popular daytime television program ‘The Jennifer Hudson Show,’ Amazon Music’s exclusive ‘In The Paint’ performance series, and most recently, Genius’s famous ‘Open Mic’ digital stage.

This American radio breakthrough perfectly matches Taemin’s recent historic achievement as the very first South Korean male solo artist to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. His spectacular weekend sets were heavily praised by music critics and festival attendees, officially being ranked as one of the most talked-about and highly celebrated performances of the entire festival season. With “Long Way Home” safely climbing the US radio charts, Taemin continues to solidifying his status as a leading global pop icon.