J.Music: Rest Easy Kim Jonghyun

Hello guys! I know I disappeared for a little bit. It's 2 am and I'm sadden to be back with the heartbreaking news I'm sure many of you already know regarding SHINee's Kim Jonghyun passing at the young age of 27.

Jonghyun was an extremely talented member of the South Korean boy group SHINee since its debut in 2008. For nearly 10 years fans had the privilege of hearing his absolutely amazing vocals, being wowed by his skills and for many, growing up with him and this group.

Following his death, his songs topped music charts as fans consoled themselves by remembering his accomplishments and why they fell in love with him in the first place.

In an effort to keep Jonghyun in my and our hearts, I wanted to write about some of my favorite songs he released as a solo artist. 

'Lonely' (feat. Taeyeon)

This soft, relaxing ballad released earlier this year on the album JONGHYUN The Collection "Story Op. 2" features lyrics regarding a couple telling each other how they feel lonely despite having each other; how they are good at hiding it out of fear of saddening the other even though they long to tell each other. I like this song because the story can apply to anyone. Many people go through feelings of loneliness even though they can be surrounded by people, family, friends. Many who are struggling want to share this hardship but are scared to do so. This is something that affects friends, family members, colleagues, anyone. So share your problems guys, everyone has felt this to some degree at some point. You are not alone. 

'She Is'

A feel good track on the album of the same name released  May 2016. You can feel his passion not only as a vocalist but as a songwriter as well considering he wrote and composed every track on the album. The dance track features funky synth beats and a strong baseline that gives it a R&B feel. It definitely makes you want to move and the MV makes you smile as you can see he is just feeling himself and enjoying his time doing something he loves. Plus, all that yellow can't help but brighten your mood.

'멍하니 있어 (Just Chill)'

As stated in its name featured on the same album as 'Lonely', this song is super chill. It is an easy listening track with funky but subdued guitar, underlying violin and Jonghyun's smooth voice adds some slight R&B, but that's just his style. The song starts out with him stating he is just chilling. He goes on to say that he sometimes wants to be alone in his room, lay down and not think about the things that suffocate him. He just wants chill in his bed, watch TV and old dramas, read comics and disconnect from SNS and the world.  He just wants a day where he can just relax and be Jonghyun. Don't we all need days like that? Make sure to take sometime to disconnect and spend time with yourself. 

'NEON'

From his first mini album as a solo artist, The 1st Mini Album 'Base', Neon is definitely a groovy track that has its hip hop-esque moments. It, of course has his strong vocals and adlibs to die for, but there is alot going instrumentally as well. It features a funky brass line, upbeat synth beats, a sprinkling of harp in there that I always live for, subtle strings and a nice base line that holds it all together. It's a lively bop that keeps the listener engaged and showcases Jonghyun's strengths and talent as a solo artist. 

So these are some of my favorite Jonghyun singles. Honestly, all of his work is extremely well done and fantastic and you should definitely check them out. There are some great gems! 

But on a serious note,

A friend shared something regarding his death that really resonated with me, "The hardest part is realizing that your idols can save your life but you can't save theirs." I just had to stop and think about this because there were many times when an idols music helped me in ways they would never know but I've never thought about if my love of them was enough to help them. 

I really hope his passing calls attention to SM and other entertainment companies and just to people to take better care of their artists and themselves in mind, body and soul. It's deeply saddening that he felt this way and was suffering for so long. It is upsetting that in Korea, a country with one of the highest suicide rates worldwide, it is taboo to share your struggles. It is seen as a weakness and you're expected to just get over it. But as we see time and time again and unfortunately now with Jonghyun, that you cannot just ignore it. It is not something you will just get over. So, if any of you or someone you know is having a hard time, please get help. Help them get help. Please talk to them, talk to anyone, talk to me and don't be afraid to! Listen to them, sometimes all someone needs is to feel heard. Remind them and yourselves that you are some of the strongest people ever because it takes great strength to live like this.  Take care of yourselves and make use of the resources around you. Life is too precious and it's unfair to suffer through it like this. 

Rest in peace Kim Jonghyun. I hope you found the relief you were so desperately looking for. We will always love you, and you will never be forgotten. 

As always, thank you so much for reading. I hope this post helped someone out there.

Jen :)

J.Music: EXO "Electric Kiss"

Hello Hello Hello! Jen here and I'm ready to delve into one of the most popular boy groups in k-pop, EXO.

The nine member South Korean/ Chinese group under SM Entertainment has literally just released (like three hours ago!) the short version of their newest single," Electric Kiss" in anticipation of dropping their first full Japanese album COUNTDOWN at the beginning of next year. It isn't the first time the group has given us something Japanese, we saw the Japanese version of Love Me Right, which will appear on this album. Following a very successful promotional period with their newest Korean/Chinese albums, The War; their Japanese release will be an added treat, that I am looking forward to indulging in.

But, for right now, I'll treat myself to this MV

The MV

 EXO is giving us strong and fierce in this latest drop. It made me think this what they would do once they escaped from that asylum in "Lucky One", fought off all those cops in "Monster" and then saved the girl in "Lotto" and then just continued on their merry bad boyish ways. Though there is no plot they definitely gave us plenty to view, from Suho looking like a beautiful garden spirit, Kyungsoo wrapped up in VHS tape and Baekhyun slaying on a scrapped car and everyone else running through what seems an abandoned city with some really lit lighting. It had similar vibes of SHINee's "Tell Me What To Do." Whats up with k-pop artists and abandoned buildings??  Once again, the cinematography = pristine. It flowed flawlessly from scene to scene of drama and dance, taking us on their journey through that place. 

The Song

D.O don't look at me like that plssss

While I don't speak any Japanese, the track gave off of a sort fight song feel. Maybe they are declaring their willingness to fight for their girl. Or maybe they're letting the enemy know they won't go down without a fight. The uptempo track featured an electric brass section, strong bass beats, with what sounds like hard core knocking or perhaps stomping sprinkled in here and there and some clapping effects that drove the tempo along underneath. It was a nice change of pace from the very chill and laid-back island vibes of "Ko Ko Bop". It would not be an EXO track without the smooth talents of the vocal line and sharp and spit-fire raps from Chanyeol and Sehun. I wonder what goodies the full version houses. 

 

The Choreography

Though we missed Lay's presence for this track, we were still given complicated and intense choreo from the group. Decked out in all black athletic and leisure wear, something different from the usually uniformed dancers, the choreography wasn't really a main focal point of the MV. Despite that, it was still high energy, upbeat, sharp, uniform, and so EXO. 

That's all guys! Go listen to the Japanese version of "Love Me Right" if you haven't to get more of a feel for their Japanese drops and I would usually tell you to check out the rest of the album but it hasn't been released yet so we will just to have wait. I'm curious what the other tracks will sound like :)

I hope you guys enjoyed this post and maybe it blossomed a new love for EXO. :)

Happy holidays! Merry Christmas! and Thanks for reading!

Jen. M

J.Music: MAMA and Melon Music Awards

Hellooooo!!! So, what kind of Korean music blog would this be if I didn't mention two of the biggest music awards shows in Asia, the Mnet Asian Music Awards aka. MAMA and the Melon Music Awards aka. MMA.

This is a time in which our favorite Korean groups are awarded for their outstanding achievements in the music industry. There are many awards given in the two ceremonies but some of the grand prizes, the "Daesangs" include Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year and Best Male/Female "Artist, Group, or Dance" Performance, Best Vocal, Rap or Band" Performance and Best Collaboration. These awards besides the love and support from their fans are the pinnacle of recognition for the artists hard work.

While I love watching my faves achieve such accolades, I LIVE for the performances. The artists go all out with amped up choreo, stage presence, storytelling and much more to make sure those in the audience and those watching from the various countries the shows are broadcast to get the best viewing experience. Here are some of my favorite performances from the shows.

MAMA Performances

Super Junior

This was extra special, considering it seems like forever since we have gotten to see something from this legend of a group. Though not every member is here, it was still an amazing performance and a testament to their talent and skill. #KINGS

EXO

Never failing to deliver a flawless performance, EXO came through with The Eve and Ko Ko Bop. I was definitely kokobopping ALL the way over here in the US to these performances. Also, can we just discuss the disrespect coming from Kai, Sehun and Baekhyun in those outfits. Excuse meeeee?? Where are your shirts? RUDE. Let me just mention how I was ko ko dead at Baekhyun's ahh-oos in Ko Ko Bop. Those always kill me, but like Baekhyun, why??

Monsta X

Monsta X. So many things I can say about this performance but I will say only two things. 1. Vocals. 2. Wonho. GO WATCH IT!

BoA

BoA= Legend. Need I say anymore? Of course she slayed us with her choreography and stage presence and just her everything. I expected nothing less and she delivered that and more. Also, if you haven't heard her song or watch the MV for CAMO, what are you doing with your life? Go watch it right now. :)

TaeMAN

I don't think I will ever tire of watching him perform MOVE. Such beauty, such grace, such sexy. And we got a nice little surprise from Sunmi in the performance.

This was honestly pure disrespect. Like TaeMAN is on whole other level. Visually pleasing, sensual, captivating, just art.

BTS

The intro performed by Hoseok and Jungkook was so #aesthetic and so mesmerizing. The special graphics paired with their dancing was a captivating way to introduce their performances.
I don't think I'll ever get tired of Not Today. It's an anthem and the performance has such high energy, you can't help but feel you can conquer anything after watching them.

DNA!! Outfits on point, dancing was sharp, everything about this was so good! It sounds like a summer hit but I can listen to this all year long and hopefully learn to whistle.

Cypher 4 and Mic Drop = lit. That's all I'll say, LIT.

I could mention so much more. I loved Red Velvet and NCT's performances (go watch those too!) but then this post would way too long and I have more to share. :)

Melon Music Awards Performances

BTS

Only BTS manages to make me feel all sorts of introspective, happy and sad yet hopeful in one performance. The intro, DNA, YNWA and Spring Day were all done so well and definitely succeeded in invoking contemplation and a range of emotions. Seriously, a group made to perform. 

 WINNER

 LOVE ME LOVE ME, and REALLY REALLY are my jams! Such fun and catchy songs. Such bops. You can see the audience members thoroughly enjoying their performance and feeling as good as the songs make you. 

IU

One of the more subdued and one of the best performances of the night, IU calmed everyone down with her soothing vocals. The touching thing she had towards the end of Dear Name just made it more special. (go listen to her newest album if you haven't yet! Ending Scene is my favorite, I might do a post about it. )

Red Velvet

Once again, a great display from Red Velvet. High energy and lively, even the fanboys in the audience can't stay still and the crowd was definitely into their performance. 

That's it!  I know there are so many more; MAMA occurred in Vietnam, Japan, and Hong Kong and the MMA's in South Korea. So many performances! Our faves are so busy. But these are just a few of my favorite performances between the two awards shows. It always nice to see groups and people that you love be recognized for their hard work and for the same reasons you love them. Watch these and the other performances! In fact go watch the entirety of the two ceremonies if you get the chance too. They are all so good and entertaining.  Tell me what some of your favorite performances were too!

Oh! Congrats to our favs who won and who were nominated! 

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, 

Jen M! 

J.Music: K-Pop Holiday Songs :) :)

Hello readers! Jen here to wish you all a Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays! Happy whatever you may celebrate during this holiday season!

SO, the holiday season is my absolute favorite time of year and I LOVE LOVE listening to holiday and Christmas music. Like many artists around the world, some of our fav Korean idols spread some holiday cheer by releasing holiday songs. So I decided to compile a list of these merry beauties for your holiday music consumption. Though some are old and some new, I hope these make you feel as warm, happy, thankful and thoughtful inside as they make me.

1. "Dear Santa"-  Girls Generation- TTS. Done in both Korean and English, making it very accessible for those wanting to spread some cheer. I love this song! Some other great songs from this holiday album are "Merry Christmas" and "Winter Story".

2. "This Christmas"- JYP Nation. A K-Pop idol studded track, it is a perfect tribute to Christmas and some of our favourite groups no longer active all while having fun in cozy pj's.

3. "Miracles in December"- EXO. The title track of their holiday album 'Miracles in December' is honestly one of the saddest holiday songs released by the group; I can't but feel so somber and contemplative when I listen to it.  Holidays are a time to be spent with significant others and loved one but this beautiful winter ballad done in both Korean and Chinese makes the listeners think about lost loved ones or maybe the ones that got away.

4. "Snow Kiss"- Teen Top. A peppy and jazz holiday track with an equally fun MV filmed by the members themselves that showcases the joy and carefree attitude we should have during the holidays.

5. "My Grown Up Christmas List"- Ailee. Our home-girl Ailee coming through with an American classic. The Korean - American singer, dazzling us with her beautiful vocals covering this holiday must have by Amy Grant, helping us get into the holiday spirit. 

6. "For Life"-EXO. Having the same feeling as Miracles in December, "For Life" is another great wintry tune from the group. This is a slow, tender, simple ballad suited for the vocalists of the group with a sweet finality at the end of the MV. Like many holiday songs, it's overall ode to a lover on Christmas. 

7. "Christmas Song"- Cube Nation. Starting off slow and jazzy, the tempo picks up quickly turning the track into a holiday bop featuring many well known artists and groups like G.NA, 4Minute and BTOB who are sure to make you sing or at least sway along. 

8. "First Snow" EXO- Highlighting the vocals of many members who had yet to bless us with their vocal skills. It is a relaxed, subdued holiday song with some bright instrumentals and great guitar that must leave you feeling happy

9. "Wish List"- f(x). Wish List offers up a synthy pop mix for those who may want a holiday song that sounds a little less "holiday-y." Enjoy!

10. "Snow Candy"- Starship Planet. Cheerful and pleasant holiday jingle that sounds so classically holiday you can't help but snap and sway along. This cute song features Starship Ent stars such as K.Will, Boyfriend and Sistar.

11. "The Star"- EXO. A peppier, more joyful song compared to "Miracles in December" on the same album. This song is a pop track with some hip hop elements that showcase the members vocals. A holiday track that I definitely can't sit still to and neither should you. Here is a live version to see some choreography, but the audio track is just as good!

12."Because It's Christmas"- Jelly Christmas. Another entertaining Christmas jingle, featuring some some rapping and beautiful vocals, and playful shots all from VIXX, Park Hyo Shin, Seo In Guk, Sung Si Kyung, and Lee Seok Hoon all wrapped up in a neat little bow for us listeners!

13. "Love, Love, Love" - After School. An amusing holiday track with jingle bells and pleasing harmonies coupled with a heartwarming MV that houses a lovely little surprise at the end.

14. "It's Christmas Time"- B1A4. A festive track, a first from the group, has a feel good production, especially considering the fact it was composed by the groups' own Jinyoung! Give it a listen for some feel good holiday cheer!

15. "Snowing" Urban Zapaka. A jazzy, mature holiday track makes the listener want to light some candles, drink a nice glass of wine and just curl up with a loved one. Wind down your winter evenings with this smooth track.

16. "The Story of December"- Sweet Sorrow. From a lesser know but just as talented group, "Story of December" demonstrates all of the holiday must haves such as jolly trumpets, uplifting melodies and of course, jingle bells. 

17. "On the Snow"- EXO. Perhaps one of my favorite holiday tracks from EXO, it is a lively ballad characterized with all things needed in a holiday song; snaps, ear-pleasing harmonies, strong vocals paired with spirited instrumentals and a peppy brass line. "On the Snow" is soft pop tune that becomes more heartfelt with pick ups during the chorus. Equal parts sugary and silky, the boys sing about a lost winter love and how they want her back. You can't help but enjoy and feel their emotion. 

I could keep naming more but there are just so many! So some others I recommend is everything else from EXO's Special Winter Album 'For Life', everything else from their album 'Miracles in December', everything else from their 'Sing For You- Winter Special Album', other tracks on Girls Generation- TTS 'Dear Santa- X-Mas Album', BTOB's 'The Winter's Tale' EP, and "All I Want For Christmas" - BOM&HI. 

I hope this spreads some special holiday cheer for guys! Share your favorite holiday song from this list, not on list, Korean or not in the comments,  I'd love to hear. 

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!

Jen :)