Page 93 – KultScene

Playlist Sunday: I Wanna Dance

July 13, 2014/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

You know those songs that just make you get up and move? Well, for this week’s playlist we have each picked K-Pop tunes that always make us move our feet. Whether it’s BIGBANG or Ailee, there are plenty of dance-worthy K-{op tunes out there for all to enjoy. Here are our picks for this week.

If there’s a song I love blasting on my laptop while getting ready to go out, it’s Orange Caramel’s Bangkok City. Even though I’m not a big fan of the rave concept with the clown hair and outfits, it’s a great song to dance and sing along too. Plus, this is probably the group’s song that showcases Nana’s voice the best without making it cutesy fake to fit their overall concept. And that’s another thing! Even though they wear the little top hats and oversized bows, Bangkok City is probably the least cute song they have. Don’t get me wrong, I love Orange Caramel’s weirdly cute concept, but it’s refreshing to see another side to them while still remaining true to their brand.

–Alexis

I Will Show You is one of the most fun, powerful songs that I’ve heard in a while. Ailee‘s powerful vocals and the beat are amazing, and the revenge message of “I will show you,” is extremely empowering. Ailee’s change from a bit of a nerd to a sexy woman to prove to MBLAQ’s G.O that he shouldn’t have broken up with her (once he got hot) is comical, but it’s something that many people with broken hearts probably feel like doing.

However, I do have one small problem. At the end, G.O wants her back, but not because he realizes that he likes the old Ailee, but instead because he likes the new Ailee. Not cool. Love her for everything she was and is, not just what she’s changed into. The song is great, but the ending message is a bit lacking. Sure, Ailee knows she has him wrapped around her finger, but what about when she gets a bit old and can’t fit into those shiny dresses?

–Tamar

f(x) is one of my favorite girl bands, and listening to their newest album Red Light, I fell in love with 뱉어내(Spit It Out). Everytime f(x) releases a song like this, it makes me remember why they became one of my favorite bands. They always have songs that make me want to blast them in my room, and of course, dance along and create my personal choreography to the song. This song has the element that I love about them, the way they blend different music genres together. The track has a lot of electronic and dance elements, and the way they all sing together at the chorus is what makes an f(x) song. My favorite part is when Amber yells “Spit it out” right before the beat goes up. Get your dancing shoes and get ready to dance!

–Alejandro

A surefire way to get everyone up and jamming is to blast BIGBANG’s Fantastic Baby and watch the party begin. The eccentric fashion and totally hypnotizing lyrics (BOOM SHAKALAKA, anyone?) pulls you into this music video, and the addicting beat and chorus (Wow, Fantastic Baby) come in to make you stay. Every time this song comes up on my iPod, I get to have a little moment to myself and dance a little.

Who could also resist TOP’s mesmerizing role as the vocal bass, or Taeyang’s powerful voice that lies in the bridge, tying the verses and the chorus together? Whether you’re a big fan of BIGBANG or not, it’s difficult not to move along when Fantastic Baby comes up!

–Thuc

One song I can’t stop listening to is Jump by BTS. I first discovered the song during the showcase for their Skool Luv Affair album and haven’t stopped listening to it since. The rapping is what makes this song.

Aside from great rapping from Suga, J-Hope, and Rap Mon, the overall tone of the song is upbeat and energetic. If you turn on Jump there won’t be anyone standing around. The whole song keeps an upbeat and fast tempo, which gets me in such a good mood and so energized and excited to do whatever I’m about to do. I listen to Jump almost every morning on my way to work to get my day started off right and to give me energy for the day.

–Tara

What’s your favorite dance song? Share your opinion with us! Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Let’s Discover: NU’EST

July 12, 2014/in Features /by Tara

I mentioned to one of my fellow KPOPme writers that I need to broaden my K-Pop horizons when I saw the teaser for NU’EST‘s comeback. She suggested I use that as a basis for an article (or many to follow in similar format). So here I am, about to write a Let’s Discover article about NU’EST.

Why NU’EST, you may ask? Well, for me personally, I really do not know much about them. I know Ren of NU’EST, because he is the most recognizable out of the group and he was the only one I ever really heard about. In all honesty, I thought NU’EST was a well established K-Pop group, thinking they have been in the industry for at least four years.

So imagine my shock when I found out they have only been together for two years! This was both shocking and a warm welcome to me. Shocking, because the way they were talked about online made it seem like they have been around longer. Now as I write this I realize that they debuted in 2012, which was the year that I really became interested in K-Pop, and that may be the reason why I heard so much about that at the time. The fact that they have only been together for two years meant there were only two years of music for me to discover.

NU’EST is a five-member male K-Pop group that debuted two years ago in 2012. One thing that I initially noticed is that there are only five members. It feels like the majority of K-Pop groups these days are made up of more than five members. I wasn’t sure I was counting correctly at first. I think five is a good number for a group. There aren’t too many rappers, main singers, dancers, etc. Everyone has a chance to shine and it’s easier to learn about each member.

The fact that there’s a Korean-American in the group, Aron, also shows that NU’EST wishes to appeal to international fans. I watched some of NU’EST’s videos online and there’s a lot of times that Aron speaks to his fans in English, which I really enjoy being that I am a native English speaker.

Before I listened to NU’EST’s older songs, I began with their Judgement teaser, which was what caught my attention in the first place. After watching the teaser I was intrigued. From there I began to watch their other music videos and naturally I have seen a few of them before, but they never left a lasting impression on me. I noticed that with K-Pop and other music genres for that matter, I have to like an artist at my own pace.

Judgement and their looks (let’s be honest guys) was enough for me to explore more. A quick side note, why are there four members born in 1995? They should be older!!!!! These boys, especially Baekho, have mature faces for 19-year-olds. Ok, back to the music.

I watched all of their music videos, at least most of them, and have come to the conclusion that I love Action. The chorus is what gets me. So good. I grew up in the 90’s with NSYNC and Backstreet Boys and this song’s beat and production remind me so much of those boy bands. I would recommend Action to any new fans of NU’EST. It’s upbeat and so catchy.

The five guys seem to work well together, based on their music videos and some behind-the-scenes videos I discovered. I would like more videos of them together though because a lot of the videos online are older. I did discover that on their YouTube page, they had a series of videos showing what the members were up to leading up to this comeback. It’s nice for fans to see their idols and for new fans, like me, who don’t know much about the group. Those types of videos make the idols more personable.

After watching Good Bye Bye, it’s clear to see that these boys (yes boys, they’re only 19 and 21!!) have come back with a more mature concept and look. Throughout the video, they look and act masculine, and Ren looks so different now! He looks much more mature and more handsome.

With each listen the song grows on me. At first I wasn’t really into the song, but while writing this article I’ve gone back and listened to it a couple of times and I like it more and more after each listen. Anyway, I absolutely love the instrumentals and the production of the song. They fit the tone of the song and video perfectly.

I hope NU’EST has a successful comeback with Good Bye Bye and their first full length album, Re:BIRTH. I listened to the album, and I love, love, love Big Deal. Based on the comments, the fans love it as well, and they hope for a music video (I’m totally down for a music video for Big Deal, it would be sooo good).

All in all, I’m glad NU’EST made a comeback this week so I can discover them even though they have been together for two years. That’s one of the beauties of K-Pop, there are so many groups (old, new, disbanded, still together, etc) for people to explore and a lot of them have their own style, which makes finding new music so easy.

Based on their comeback spoiler episodes on 1theK, the boys put A LOT of hard work into the new album and their comeback. They clearly love to sing and dance and are humbled by the support of their fans. For that, they have gained a new fan.

Are you guys new fans to NU’EST too or have you been a loyal fan from the beginning? What are some of your favorite NU’EST songs I should check out as I explore NU’EST’s music? If you have any ideas or topics you think we should discuss in these Let’s Discover articles leave your comments below! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr,and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

8 Reasons Why Fans Love Luhan

July 11, 2014/in Fans /by Thucydides

EXO has been popular since their debut (and even before that), as each of their members possess a certain air that makes their fans swoon. There’s no doubt in particular that Luhan has quite the large fanbase, but what is it about him that grabs your attention?

At first, I couldn’t come up with definite explanations, but I gradually came up with eight reasons why this guy is so darn lovable.

1. He’s kind of pretty-handsome

Yes, we all know that SM Entertainment is known for their gorgeous idols, but Luhan ranks high on the list of pretty-yet-handsome celebrities. In an industry where androgynous looks are popular, he definitely excels in that field.

However, let’s not forget his sharp debut pictures that put great emphasis on his handsome jawline:

2. His proportions are elfin

Branching out from his attractiveness, his proportions are otherworldly. From his baby face to his tall stature to his very cute hands, it’s hard to believe that this guy’s not from another planet.

Let’s not forget about his lean physique:

His long neck adds a graceful aspect to complete the whole package:

3. He sings well

I fell in love with Luhan’s voice when I first heard him sing with Chen in Baby Don’t Cry for the group’s debut showcase. There’s a reason why he’s the lead vocalist; his voice is extremely soft and soothing, and yet he maintains a strong sense of emotion along with gentle vibrato:

4. He takes care of his members

You wouldn’t think, with his youthful appearance, that Luhan is one of the oldest members of EXO. Well, he is, and he shows his protective, brotherly side to his younger bandmates. Not only does he make sure they’re doing okay in variety shows and performances, but he also translates for the Korean members during Chinese promotions.

5. He’s not afraid of sasaengs

In this current time period where many people have no idea what personal lives are, idols have to deal with a number of obsessive stalker “fans” called sasaengs. When faced with annoying, overzealous sasaengs, Luhan doesn’t back down; he stands up for himself and makes sure the rest of the good fans know exactly what’s going on.

You see that? That’s the face of someone who’s not afraid to show how annoyed they are when people call them nonstop on their personal phones.

6. He’s sporty

Tons of idols get their bodies from sheer practice alone, but Luhan actually enjoys sports as a hobby. Growing up with football (or soccer) and being a fan of Manchester United, he’s participated in a variety of idol events involving the sport. Did I mention he’s also pretty good?

7. His manliness complex

This is what you might call a cute fault! Due to his feminine appearance, Luhan often reminds people that he’s not just a pretty-boy by claiming that he’s the manliest member in his group. Sometimes he plays along to the cute trope, but he generally stands his ground:

8. He’s a weirdo

Do I even need to say anything about this? Despite being an idol, Luhan has the widest range of facial expressions I’ve ever seen:

Yeah… Weirdo. But that doesn’t mean I hate him for it. It kind of makes me cry more inside because he’s so strange, and I can’t help but adore that.

Is your bias Luhan? What are your reasons for liking your favorite idol? Share your thoughts and make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Artist Spotlight: Megan Lee

July 10, 2014/in Artist Spotlight, Entertainment /by Alejandro Abarca

Megan Lee has been around for quite a few years now. But finally she debuted with her first official single 8dayz this past May. In a world where K-Pop idols are fabricated, Megan Lee comes off very fresh. She is not only an actress, but she is a singer-songwriter and knows how to play the guitar. I first discovered Megan when I saw her on a video with Simon and Martina from Eat Your Kimchi going around Korea. Then I found more about her and I was instantly in love with her voice. Her personality was very bubbly and fun and it made me want to find out even more about her.

Even though her career started when she was 10, the 18-year-old Californian started getting recognition throughout the internet with her YouTube covers. She even won a 2NE1 cover contest and flew to Korea to meet the girls. Eventually, she joined MBC’s Start Audition season 2, where Lena Park hand-picked her to be her mentor.

Last year, she signed with g.o.d’s Kim Tae Woo’s record label Soul Shop Entertainment and also with LOEN Entertainment. She had previously released her self composed songs and released a track with Kim Tae tittled Oppa, where their voices compliment each other very well.

With 8dayz, Megan shows a new side. Her whimsical voice blended really well with the country feeling of the song. And even though 2Yoon did the country and K-pop crossover with 24/7, Megan brings a fresh twist a la Taylor Swift. The concept of the video is very fun and the boho-chic fashion goes very well with her. The song even features BEAST’s Yong Junhyung.

And if you look closely, you’ll notice a special cameo from Kim Tae Woo.

And there’s even has an English version of the song:

Moreover, legendary band g.o.d just released a teaser for their upcoming new music video and it features none other than our featured artist Megan Lee.

Listen to the full audio below:

I really hope you love Megan Lee as much as I do. I see a very bright future ahead of her.

Did you like Megan Lee? Make sure to let us know in the comments. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

What’s Super Junior Been Up To Between ‘Sexy, Free, & Single’ & Now?

July 10, 2014/in Entertainment /by Tamar Herman

Super Junior recently announced that it would return with its seventh album. It’s been almost two years since the SM Entertainment group released a Korean album as a whole unit. And how is ELF taking the news? Well, it’s safe to say that we’re all like:

Despite this unofficial hiatus, Super Junior as a whole was very active in the Japanese and Chinese market. The group released both Japanese album Hero and the Japanese single Blue World in 2013. Their subgroups were also very active. Super Junior K.R.Y (Kyuhyun, Ryeowook, and Yesung) released a single, Promise You, also in Japanese. Morover, in 2013, Super Junior-M released Break Down in China, and in Swing in 2014.

Donghae & Eunhyuk for t heir part released I Wanna Dance in June 2013, and was the only subgroup to have a Korean release in 2013 with the single Still You. Super Show 5 ran between March 2013 and February 2014. The group also appeared at SM Town Live World Tour III. So what has each member been up to?

Leeteuk headed into the army shortly after Sexy, Free & Single was released in 2012. He will finish his military service on July 29, and appears to be returning to Super Junior for the 7^th album. So, pretty much, they’ve been waiting for their dear leader. Think about that for a minute.

Heechul completed his military service at the end of last August, and made his Super Junior comeback in Blue World. He’s also appeared on We Got Married Global Edition Season 2, with a fake marriage to Taiwanese idol Puff Guo. Heechul is currently appearing in the drama Flower Grandpa Investigation Unit.

Kangin returned from the army and to normal Super Junior promotions on Sexy, Free & Single. The strongman became the host of MBC’s Show Champion in 2014, and is playing the lead role in the upcoming film Cat Funeral.

Shindong continued his career as a host, appearing on The Beatles Code 2 and his own radio show, ShiShimTaPa. In preparation for the album and his upcoming enlistment, Shindong ended his stint as ShimShimTaPa’s DJ in early July. In 2013, he won the Radio Category Top Excellence Award for the radio show at the MBC Entertainment Awards.

Sungmin, along with his activities as a Super Junior-M member, has made himself known in the musical scene. He appeared in the musicals Jack The Ripper, Summer Snow, and The Three Musketeers since 2013. He also hosted Super Junior Kiss The Radio show with Ryeowook, but stepped down in April 2013 to focus on his musical activities.

Eunhyuk not only appeared at all of Super Junior’s concerts, but he was continuously active in two subgroups, Super Junior-M and Donghae & Eunhyuk. In addition, he appeared on several variety shows, including Barefoot Friends.

Donghae‘s activities were pretty much the same as Eunhyuk for many parts, but he also opened up a restaurant in Seoul and appeared in the movie Rumor and the popular drama God’s Quiz Season 4.

Siwon partook in Super Junior-M activities and was busy acting. He appeared in the Hong Kong film Helios, and was cast in the film Dragon Blade, which he will act in alongside Jackie Chan, Adrien Brody, and John Cusack. Siwon also appeared in the music video for Donghae & Eunhyuk’s song Motorcycle.

Ryeowook has been busy with subgroup activity with Super Junior K.R.Y and –M. He also sang songs for several soundtracks, and appeared in two musicals. Ryeowook took over as the sole host of Super Junior Kiss The Radio after Sungmin left, and he also hosts the Mnet show Super Idol Chart Show with Beast’s Dongwoon.

Kyuhyun participated in subgroup activities with K.R.Y and -M, and appearing in the 2014 reiteration of SM The Ballad. He also appeared on Henry’s solo song Trap. Throghout part of 2013, he was a host of the show Mamma Mia. Kyuhyun also acted in four musicals since 2013, and is currently appearing in Singin’ In The Rain.

Yesung went into the army in May 2013. Hero was the last albumin which his vocals appeared on. Before enlistment, he also sang Carbon Paper for the drama That Winter, The Wind Blows.

[Disclaimer: These two are members of Super Junior-M officially and many people consider them official Super Junior members so I am including them on the list.]

Zhou Mi promoted with Super Junior-M and SM The Ballad, and he, wait for it… Was the mastermind behind the lyrics of not only the title song Swing but also Fly High! He also hosted a Chinese radio show with Miss A’s Fei and Jia.

Henry promoted with SuJu-M and became SM Entertainment’s first male solo artist in over a decade when he debuted in 2013 with Trap. He also appeared on numerous variety shows to promote himself and SuJu-M, including MasterChef Korea Celebrity and Real Men. Henry also acted in the movie, Final Recipe. He’s currently gearing up for his comeback with Fantastic.

Pretty much, the members of Super Junior have been busy, but now it’s time for them to release something new. SM Entertainment has shared that the group will release a new album in September, and have a concert at the end of that month.

Are you excited for Super Junior’s comeback? Or do you like their solo activities more? Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

4 Reasons to Start Watching “Trot Lovers”

July 9, 2014/in Entertainment /by Alexis Hodoyan-Gastelum

Even though it’s been lagging behind Doctor Stranger, Trot Lovers has been among the most viewed dramas in its time slot since it premiered. And while the plot line in its essence is nothing new, Trot Lovers has that je ne sais quoi (but it probably concerns its comedic approach) that gets you hooked since the first episode.

If you’re not currently watching this drama, I will give you four short reasons why you should get on DramaFever or Hulu and start ASAP. Here it goes:

1. Eunji’s character is similar to Reply 1997’s Shi Won

If you were (or still are) a fan of tvN’s 2012 drama Reply 1997, you’ll surely enjoy Trot Lovers because of A-Pink’s Eunji. I don’t know if this is intentional or Eunji simply can only play one character as an actress, but anyone who liked Sun Shi Won will like Choi Choon Hee too because they’re very similar.

Even though both characters follow the ever present plotline of needing to be rescued by the leading male, these are not useless women without their male counterparts (think Jan Di in Boys Over Flowers). No, Choi Choon Hee is, to some extent, independent and her own strong person who doesn’t always take Jang Joon Hyun’s ish so willingly. In fact, she only lets the former singer boss her around so he can help her become famous and pay off her father’s debt.

Furthermore, you’ll often see Choon Hee breaking free from Joon Hyun’s grasp (in most K-Dramas, girls get manhandled a lot!) or talking smack back to everyone. She’s obviously not as funny or whiny or crazy as Shi Won, but hey, they’ve only aired five episodes of Trot Lovers so far. There’s still some hope that Eunji will make Choon Hee just as funny or funnier than Shi Won.

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2. Ji Hyun Woo

The eye-candy factor should be more than enough, but ok, I’ll elaborate. Recently released from the army, Ji Hyun Woo gets his hunky self back in the acting game by taking the male lead, Jang Joon Hyun, in the drama. And even though he plays a self-centered, mean, singer à la Hwang Tae Kyung (You’re Beautiful), he’s just as likeable in a masochist way that, let’s be real, a lot of girls like. I mean, really, who can resist those scenes when he sings while playing the guitar? Not me, of course. Plus, he’s developing a really sweet relationship with Choon Hee’s little sister, which is adorable! And that eye smile! I die!

3. The inevitable love line

I hope I’m not giving you this drama-ruining spoiler experience by pointing out that a love line and love triangle is bound to happen –it always does! It’s so predictable that I already want to see it develop before my eyes. It will obviously play out with Choo Hee at the center and Joon Hyun and Jo Geun Woo (CEO of the entertainment company played by Shin Sung Rok) chasing after her. And we can’t forget about Park Soo In (played by Lee Se Young) who used to be Joo Hyun’s lover and now is jealous of all the attention Choo Hee’s getting. I’m still not sure which guy this girl will pursue yet, but she has ties with both of them too.

Even at five episodes in, you can see that the Choo Hee-Joon Hyun relationship will be a love-hate one, making Geun Woo the second male lead who never gets the girl but always has a more meaningful relationship with the leading woman.

4. Eunji’s singing

While I don’t have the knowledge to properly say what “good singing” is, just like Geun Woo pointed out during Choo Hee’s trainee audition, her voice and interpretation amuses people and makes them dance. And even though Eunji is described as a “competent to good” vocalist by a blog more savvy than me in this department, it’s safe to say she’s bringing trot to the domestic K-Pop and, ultimately, global audiences as well.

Are you watching Trot Lovers? How are you liking it? Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Playlist Sunday: Provocative Tunes

July 6, 2014/in Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

Some K-Pop songs are cute, some K-Pop songs are sexy. And there are a few that stand out for their sexy, provocative messages. The KPOPme staff sat down and picked of their favorite provocative tracks ,and this is the playlist we came up with.

When I first saw the teasers for Red Light, I was very surprised. The girls of f(x) were looking very strong and very sexy. Then I read the tittle of their comeback song, Red Light, and I instantly thought, ” Wow, this is gonna be provocative”. Giving that there is a Red Light District in Amsterdam, I thought the song was going to be about prostitution.

But then the song was released and after watching and reading the English translation of the song, I realized that I had been deceived. Nevertheless, I love this song and I love the different sounds in it. And for me, this is a very refreshing track (specially the parts with trap) . I always love how f(x) always miles real instruments with electronic beats. And I can’t take the, “Ay ay is a red light” out of my head. I love this song and I can’t stop listening to it.

–Alejandro

One of the first K-Pop music videos I ever saw was TVXQ‘s Mirotic. And, wow. If The Wonder Girls hadn’t done it for me, those five handsome men would have. TVXQ’s last Korean music video as a quintet was banned because of the suggestive dance and seductive lyrics. “I’ve got you, under my skin,” is still one of the most famous K-Pop lyrics nowadays for its desirous meaning.

Not only was the song provocative with it’s alluring video and lyrics, but the song actually provoked quite a response from the Korean Commission of Youth Protection, which determined that Mirotic was dangerous to the youth of Korea. SM Entertainment had to change the lyrics to TVXQ’s song. And that’s why we love it so much.

–Tamar

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I can’t really remember when I first heard Trouble Maker‘s Trouble Maker, but I can surely remember I was in shock. I was new to K-Pop, and while the music video would be standard protocol for Western artists, I had learned that outright sensuousness had little presence in the genre, so this music video caught me off guard.

Performed flawlessly by Cube Entertainment’s staple sexy duo, Hyuna and Hyunseung, Trouble Maker is a song about lusting over someone and not wanting to repress said feeling. A provocative choreography accompanies the equally provocative music video and song, which, of course, the media had a field day criticizing it. Despite this, Trouble Maker succeeded in the market and was highly parodied by other artists on variety shows.

–Alexis

Brown Eyed Girls‘ Sixth Sense comes to mind when we talk about provocative; from the sexy outfits and choreography to the deeper conflicts between North and South Korea, this music video brings forth many emotions. Ga-In starts off the first verse, sitting on a throne and crooning words like touch, bitch, and guilty. Combine Ga-In with scantily clad Narsha, close-to-drowning JeA, and rebel leader Miryo, and what do we have? The perfect combination of provocative!

I could feel the anger and the tension coming from these ladies as they faced their opponents, and their powerful vocals further added to these strong emotions. That high note not only was breathtaking, but it also seemed to represent an inner cry for war! This group never fails to impress me.

–Thuc

I first heard After School‘s Dressing Room a few months ago, even though the song is over a year old. The beat of the song got me hooked right from the beginning. Naturally, I looked up the lyrics and discovered the song is about a secret love taking place in the dressing room… scandalous!

It was probably a smart choice not to choose Dressing Room as a promotion song because it’s a safe bet to say that their lyrics would have to be altered for being too provocative. Especially this part:

Take me, come to me, feel me closer
Wherever your hand touches, make me so hot.

One can only imagine what the choreography would be if this song had a video and that would most likely also have to be changed for censorship purposes. Although After School didn’t promote this song, it’s still one of my favorites on their First Love EP.

–Tara

What’s your faveorite provocative song? Share your opinion with us! Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Let’s Discuss: Is Henry The Most Successful Chinese K-Pop Idol?

July 6, 2014/in Let's Discuss /by Tamar Herman

Yes. The answer, despite the fact that he may not be as popular as EXO-M or Han Geng, is a “yes.” Success and fame are completely different things. With Henry‘s upcoming comeback with Fantastic, it’s worth taking a moment to realize how successful he has become.

Canadian-born Henry Lau, who debuted in 2008 as a member of Super Junior-M, has become more and more popular throughout Korea throughout the past few years. Despite some rough times, when Super Junior fans resisted Henry and fellow SuJu-M member Zhou Mi (regardless of how Super Junior’s other members felt), Henry ended up coming out on top of just about every other artist of Chinese descent to pass through SM Entertainment’s doors.

Let’s look at where Henry is now:

Last year, he debuted as a solo artist, making him SM Entertainment’s first male solo artist in thirteen years. Since then, he promoted his first album Trap successfully, and ended up becoming a variety favorite by appearing on the military-variety show, Real Men. Even though he’s not Korean and doesn’t have to serve in the military, Henry’s shown Korean audiences that not only does he value their country’s military service, but he can learn from it. And do it with a smile on his face.

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When Henry joined Super Junior to promote as a Super Junior-M member with fellow Chinese singer Zhou Mi, Korean Super Junior fans protested. Super Junior was thirteen members, they claimed. Since then, Super Junior’s had a whole slew of changes to its line up, but fans still won’t accept Henry and Zhou Mi. Which, personally, I think is ridiculous. Not only is Henry talented, but the other Super Junior members have begged fans to accept Zhou Mi and Henry just like fans have accepted every other member.

But Super Junior’s fanclub, ELF (Everlasting Friends) claims that Henry and Zhou Mi are Super Junior, but only if they have M to their name. One would think that this would be an end of a career for the two of the idols, and for a long time, it seemed like both Zhou Mi and Henry would merely promote as members of Super Junior-M.

But Henry’s plunge into becoming a solo singer showed the K-Pop world that being a member of a subgroup isn’t a death sentence. While Zhou Mi’s pursued an acting career in China and is one of Super Junior’s resident composers, Henry’s done everything he can to make Korean and international fans recognize him as what he is, an extremely talented musician—he’s, in fact, an excellent musician, regardless of his training from SM Entertainment.

So he’s done well. Zhou Mi has also. Why do I say that Henry is the most successful of SM’s Chinese artists?

First, let’s look at other Chinese artists at SM. There are the three remaining Chinese members of EXO (EXO-M): Luhan, Lay, and Tao. They’re popular, because EXO is popular, and are each getting recognition, but as members of EXO rather than individuals. Kris, who has since left EXO, is trying to make a name for himself in China, but many fans think of him as a traitor and no longer favor him.

Then, in f(x), there’s Victoria and Amber. Again, popular, and they each have many, many fans, but because they’re members of f(x) and have done promotions representing not only themselves, but also the group. But Henry is generally just Henry, except when he’s Super Junior-M’s Henry.

Okay, so Zhou Mi. Zhou Mi is popular. But he hasn’t been able to gain the solo fame to compete with Henry, who is able to appear on Korean television and be recognized immediately.

Zhang Liyin was extremely popular in the late 2000’s, but her popularity waned due to a large period of inactivity- her last single was released in 2009, and her last album was released in 2008. She is a member of SM The Ballad and is rumored to be making a comeback soon, but it’s almost impossible for her to compete with younger idols like Henry.

And then there’s Han Geng. He is probably the most famous Chinese person to ever walk through the doors of SM Entertainment. He’s an icon in China, having been picked out of hundreds of other Chinese auditions to be the first Chinese trainee at SM Entertainment, and then when he left Super Junior, he became a star in China, both as a singer and as an actor.

Unlike Kris, who has evoked fans’ fury by immediately starting a career in China, Han Geng obviously was unable to work due to his contract with SM Entertainment. He’s now considered to be a world star, and recently appeared in the latest Transformers movie.

Okay, so he’s famous. And popular. But is that successful? Many would say yes. But is he as successful as Henry who, despite the hardships he faced for being an unwanted member of Super Junior, still waited patiently for his day to shine? Personally, as someone who values patience and loyalty, I don’t really think so.

Just to make this clear: I don’t think Han Geng should have stayed at SM. The company had no idea what they were doing with a Chinese idol. But, as awful as it sounds, Han Geng cleared the way for Henry, Zhou Mi, and all other of SM’s Chinese trainees.

Henry was a hated member of one of the most popular K-Pop groups ever. To this day, fans of Super Junior don’t accept Henry as a “true” member of the group, whatever that means. But rather than accept his place, Henry has overcome the rejection and started slowly. He accepted his own personal fans, known as Strings thanks to his violin skills, and never really spoke up about how much it must have hurt for ELF to reject him and Zhou Mi.

He worked hard, appeared on variety shows, promoted as a Super Junior-M member, and practically forced the world to recognize him as a hardworking, talented performer. Only then was he able to promote alone as a solo artist, Henry.

While SM Entertainment has struggled with Chinese members, Henry is the most successful one because he’s done the impossible- he’s practically convinced the Korean audience that he’s a Korean idol. Everyone knows that he’s not, and in fact that’s part of his charm. It’s because of this, the fact that Henry has been able to endure until he reached acceptance from the very audience that originally rejected him, why I think that Henry’s the most successful.

His name is 헨리 (Henry), and he appears on a show that emulates Korean army service and people accept it, he speaks Korean fluently. He is a Korean idol not only as a member of a group but in his own right.

He may not be the most popular, and he may not be the wealthiest, but he is the most accepted Chinese K-Pop idol. And because of that, Henry Lau is the most successful Chinese person in K-Pop today.

What do you think? Are other Chinese idols more successful? Share your opinion with us! Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Breaking Down “Burning The Beast”

July 5, 2014/in Entertainment /by Tara

For those of you who follow Showtime, you are aware that for the first season, SM Entertainment’s EXO was the focus. It was announced earlier in 2014 that Beast, of Cube Entertainment, would take over for the second season. I was excited for Beast to have their own reality show, although after watching EXO’s Showtime, I wasn’t sure how it would match up.

After watching the first nine episodes of Showtime Burning The Beast, I can’t help but become completely enthralled with it. I don’t think there were any intentions of comparing EXO’s Showtime to Beast’s, and I don’t intend to do that in this article. I want to focus on the overall feel of the show and occasionally add in how I feel it differs from EXO’s Showtime.

To begin with, let’s discuss the title of the second season: Showtime Burning the Beast. Is that ‘burning’ as in embarrassing the members throughout the show, is that ‘burning’ as in a rebirth of Beast’s variety presence, or is that ‘burning’ because it’s a fun English word and it’s decent alliteration? I’m not sure, but to be honest it could be all three based on the episodes aired so far. In each episode, at least one member is momentarily embarrassed, mostly due to the fact that the other members make fun of them or dwell on a mistake they made.

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The best friends episode (episode 7) saw Kikwang and his friend fail the mission and therefore complete the punishment, which was to go to the center of Myungdung and do a Gosa for Beast’s new album. Then in episode 8, Beast could have had an embarrassing outcome for their telepathy missions, but they managed to squeak by with a minor punishment, but not before picking out what style of underwear Yoseob would most likely buy. Obviously these embarrassing punishments make for good television and ratings.

Looking at ‘Burning the Beast’ in a rebirth sense is also plausible. During the first episode, the members voiced how this was a chance for them to show their improved variety skills and show a different side of Beast to their fans, the human side. Considering their last reality show was years before, clearly the members have changed in looks, confidence, and personality. From episode 1, it is clear that the members just want to be themselves and have a good time.

And let’s be honest, Burning the Beast does have a nice ring to it. Whereas the first season was called EXO’s Showtime, which was simple and to the point. Burning the Beast, at least to me, is more elaborate than Beast’s Showtime, and also makes the second season theirs as opposed to constant comparisons to the first season with EXO. Maybe that’s why the show isn’t always going to be titled [insert band name here]’s Showtime.

The content of the show is based around Q&A provided by fans and relayed to the members by the PD, which makes me wonder how much shows like this are scripted. However, in this instance, I don’t think the show is fully scripted. Or it’s just my blind love for Beast that’s clouding my judgement?

After each episode I watch, the member’s emotions, actions, and conversations feel genuine (although I’ve never met any of the members and therefore have no previous interactions to use as a basis). But it’s the light-hearted joking and poking fun at each other that you can’t script.

All of the members are active in their own ways throughout each episode. Hyunseung further solidifies his 4D image, Junhyung isn’t afraid to show his love for the camera, Dongwoon is just Dongwoon, Doojoon acts as the leader/MC and is competitive, Kikwang shows his variety show experience, and Yoseob is constantly smiling and making smart remarks. Frankly, they all make smart remarks and their camaraderie and banter with each other just seems like something so organic that it cannot be scripted.

That’s one thing I enjoy more about season 2 of Showtime in comparison to season 1, that I, as a viewer, feel that there is more of a brotherhood among the Beast members as opposed to the members of EXO. I’m not saying EXO doesn’t have brother-like bonds, but it’s easier to show the true personalities of six guys as opposed to twelve and Beast has been in the industry since 2009 and are more comfortable with themselves, each other and in front of a camera and crew. They’re more natural and tend to ignore the cameras. And they definitely don’t mind if they make fools of themselves.

The way the show is shot, and due in large part to the members’ closeness with each other, at times, it really seems like we are witnessing a group of friends just hanging out and having a good time. That is really all that Burning the Beast is about. It shows the camaraderie and fun the members have with each other and allows fans to get a glimpse of their envious relationship with each other once a week.

Are you guys enjoying the second season of Showtime or do you prefer the first season with EXO? Be sure to share your thoughts and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

f(x)’s “Red Light” Music Video & Song Review

July 4, 2014/in Entertainment, MUSIC VIDEOS /by Thucydides

When SM Entertainment dropped a teaser for f(x)‘s comeback, it hinted at a change in the group’s style and image for Red Light. With such captivating stares and haunting makeup, the ladies kept their fans on edge in anticipation for the release of the music video. When it was released, swarms of people rushed over to the YouTube channel. It appeared to follow the same theme and feeling, but… Did it live up to their expectations?

Music Video

I’m definitely in love with this video for many reasons. For one thing, I’m happy that the entertainment company hasn’t done another “dance in a box” video that has garnered much criticism. For a while, I thought that they were focusing too much on special effects for groups like EXO instead of giving some attention towards f(x). Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised.

Atmosphere

Right from the beginning of the teasers, I was looking forward to a darker, intense, and brooding f(x). The concept of having two faces, but only letting people see one, lends itself to a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde sort of situation, and I couldn’t wait to see how they would represent it in the music video.

Did I get what I was looking for? Definitely! The ringing telephone, the burning book, and the black cat with heterochromatic eyes pulled me in from the get-go. There was a forbidden, eery feeling in this intro, and it was further emphasized by the powerful contrasts in color.

Red lights are definitely prominent, but it’s impossible to overlook the pops of blue that showcase how people have two different sides to themselves.

Set in an abandoned warehouse in an urban dysphobia, this gave off a rebellious, “we’re going to create an uprising” atmosphere. The incorporation of marked mannequins watching a broadcast of a commanding presence and explosions also contribute to this atmosphere. They’re in a war setting, but are they also fighting with themselves?

Fashion and Makeup

Looking at their outfits, captivating eye makeup, and strong hair colors, you could say that they might just be facing more than one battle. Their camo shorts and ammo-accessorized military-style shirts are a stark contrast from their business attire, symbolizing their struggle with society’s molds.

Their smoky eye makeup only focus on one of a pair, with their hair covering the bare eye at multiple points in the video. Even eye-patches are used, but, given some of the after-war imagery, I’d like to think it represents some of their losses after battle. Think of it this way: both eyes represent the complexity of each person.

The less adorned eye symbolizes their innocence, a state in which they didn’t yet realize that they could fight back. The other eye is shown more often as they begin to retaliate and try to escape from their imprisonment.

Did you also notice how, after leaving, they have less jewelry? This white, peaceful aftermath lends to the idea that they cast away some of the hindering distractions that prevented them from reaching their goal.

Also, I just have to mention that I am in LOVE with their hair:

Their fashion and makeup aren’t the only things that play an important role, however.

Choreography

The marching and strong poses reflect the mitilitarian theme, while the angular, crisp movements during the chorus give a mime stuck in a box sort of image. They aren’t always stuck in the confines of authority, because they incorporate feline paws and “challenging their oppressor” hand gestures while they break out of their prisons.

This choreography focuses on the upper body, and mainly the arms and hands, along with connecting the members in one movement at important intervals, especially at the climax of the video.

Song

Do I feel as strongly for the song as I do for the video? To be honest, no. It was mainly because it was very strange, as if SM tried another I Got A Boy, but with f(x) instead. But I’m not one to completely give up on songs after one listen, so I tried over and over again. Is this really electronic house music as SM describes it as? I’m not really feeling it.

Instrumental

Like I said before, this change in tempo was pretty strange for me. I did get used to it after repeatedly listening to the song, so it slowly stopped being weird. Instead of plain old electronic house music, it sounds like this composition combines electronic house with trap and dubstep in a very interesting soup of music.

Does this represent the feelings of someone fighting with an outside force while struggling with two different faces? Actually, it kind of does! It just takes a while to figure it out.

Lyrics

Even before I read kashigasa’s English translation of the lyrics, I knew that there was something very obvious going on between the contrasting cool and warm color scheme, along with the war imagery. The words fit with the video and the overall feeling of the song, so I really do like the following lyrics.

Hey wait a minute
Under the rule of the jungle
The weak get eaten

Just get pushed ahead,
Yeah pushed ahead
Oops, I get stepped on

Ay ay it’s a red light light
I don’t even know what’s wrong
With the current situation

Ay ay it’s a red light light
Listen carefully to the whoever is trying to warn us
Red light

Try to breathe for a moment
Try breathing, try breathing
Eh eh oh
This isn’t a war

Open your eyes wide
Stop the collision from happening
(You’re going to be a witness to change)
In front of that caterpillar that got pushed around
(When everything sinks)

It’s turned on, red light
The vivid, red light
It gets bigger by itself
That red light

Boy
Your best excuse
Is just filled with doubt to me

Maybe it’s love
A very slow wave
A very slow wave

Ay ay it’s a red light light
Let’s find it for each other using light
That special emergency exit

Ay ay think about it
Why something made us stop
Red light

Turn around again, eh oh
Try to fnd what’s important

Open your eyes wide
Stop the collision from happening
(You’re going to be a witness to change)
In front of that caterpillar that got pushed around
(When everything sinks)

It’s turned on, red light
The vivid, red light
It gets bigger by itself
That red light

It’s taken too long for this miracle to come
But we wait for the blue light, we want it

Stop the flood (This is reality, listen to my voice)
Open your eyes wide (Look at the world in front of you)
The one who’s only been pushed (A bright light pushed you)
Caterpillar
That’s madness

It’s turned on, red light
The vivid, red light
It gets bigger by itself
That red light

So there’s a mish-mosh of lyrics that can get kind of confusing, but there’s just enough clarity to see that this is a metamorphosis, both physical in fighting back and aiming for the blue light, and emotional, in dealing with their dual personalities. Once you get past the puzzling instrumentals and understand the lyrics, it makes a lot of sense!

Style & Vocals

There’s been a little bit of a conflict in the f(x) fandom (not very affectionate) in regards to the group not “fitting” with their usual style. Is this different than what they’ve been producing? Of course! But it doesn’t mean that it’s bad. These ladies have already established a standpoint on style, because, as their namesake goes, they’re able to grow and change, adapting any style.

I still do get an f(x) feel from the song in general, mainly because of the bridge, in which they all sing together in this hypnotizing harmony that strikes me as “hey, that’s f(x)!” However, there are other new horizons that they touched upon, and I think that’s pretty gutsy and cool.

In terms of vocals, I was surprised that there wasn’t a rapping sequence, and I was even more surprised that Amber actually had a couple of strong singing parts. It really sounds like they’ve grown in terms of vocals, as they hit high notes and maintain their control. I’m proud of them for that!

Overall Ratings

Did I enjoy this comeback? It didn’t agree with me at first, but I’m liking this new edge that f(x) is going with! Here’s my final ratings on this matter:

MV: 8/10
Song: 5/10
Both: 7/10

Did you agree with my verdict? Did you think I missed some important points? Be sure to share your thoughts and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

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