CL Showcases Creative Freedom on ‘ALPHA’ Album

If this is your first time hearing about the ‘baddest,’ then ALPHA is a great introduction because it shows off CL’s artistry, not only as a talented rapper, but also as a vocalist. Another sign of how much involvement she has on this album, is the fact that she’s credited as a writer on every track. From beginning to end, you know she’s behind the … Continue reading CL Showcases Creative Freedom on ‘ALPHA’ Album

What if Johnny’s Entertainment had female idol groups?

Mr. KitagawaΒ has stated in the past that one of the main reasons why he doesn’t handle female groups is because girls are more difficult to work with. Even though I’m a girl, I kind of agree with him on that one. Often times there’s just so much drama surrounding girl groups; members filing lawsuits without the opinion of the leader, as well as competing for leadership position and main vocals in a shady manner. It’s definitely tough managing one group much less a dozen, and I’m certain Johnny would recruit hundreds at a young age to begin the training process. So, in order to take some load off his shoulders I’ve come up with a few suggestions: Continue reading “What if Johnny’s Entertainment had female idol groups?”

Stars can’t even shop for underwear in peace

By Kai It seems there’s no crossing the line when it comes to photogs and how far they’ll go to get the money shot. They’ll even enter a boutique and snap stars while they’re out shopping for underwear. Of course there’s nothing wrong with a woman shopping for coverage for her privates but certainly she doesn’t want to have her picture taken while doing so, … Continue reading Stars can’t even shop for underwear in peace

HEART2HEART: A failed attempt at reviving 90’s pop

A few seconds ago I came across a so-called new pop boy group called HEART2HEART, and believe me the name isn’t the worst part of it. Their debut single is called “Facebook Official” and they currently have a mini album available on iTunes (I guess anybody can do that these days). What cracks me up the most is how over-the-top their make-up is, along with their obvious concept of trying to copy kpop, which looks like a complete insult to that culture. Are you kidding me? Is this the industry’s attempt at recreating 90’s pop phenom in today’s society by unleashing these alienistic, pervacious looking dudes? Their voices aren’t exactly the wow factor, in fact it’s pure mediocrity. Please, their song is as distasteful as their choreography.Β Check it out below and tell us what you think: Continue reading “HEART2HEART: A failed attempt at reviving 90’s pop”

[Review] 2NE1’s 2nd Mini Album

2NE1 doesn’t allow fans to miss them too long once they’re on a roll, and for weeks they’ve been releasing the songs off their second EP, which is just as rocking as their first. Their previous was definitely an introduction to showcase each of the ladies’ skills and their significance in the group, but the second enlightens how much they’ve grown and have transitioned over time. 2NE1, in my opinion, has become one of the biggest female kpop groups in the world. They’re a global phenom; a reason why some keep interested in Korean pop culture. And I’m contented with how YG Entertainment has marketed these ladies since their debut till now. Not only are they huge in music, but they’re considered fashion icons, and are in high demand when it comes to doing commercials and endorsing products. You just can’t get enough of 2NE1, and their second EP represents where they’re at and where they’re going next. Continue reading “[Review] 2NE1’s 2nd Mini Album”

2NE1 gets “Lonely”

Finally! YG Entertainment has tamed the auto-tune and allowed the real 2NE1 to stand up. The ladies exhumes passion in their latest single “Lonely“, and I can’t think of a good reason as to why the label has been hiding their true potential all this time. “Lonely” is more of an acoustic number and slows down all the booming bass and club bangers 2NE1 is known for. The track is as emotional as their previous ballad “It Hurts“. A really sweet song and the music video plays out the lyrics: sad, gloomy, and well, lonely. Check out the video below and tell us what you think: Continue reading “2NE1 gets “Lonely””

“Can’t Nobody” hold 2NE1 down, in English that is…

Kpop‘s “bad bad but so good good” top female group 2NE1 recently released the English version music video for their song “Can’t Nobody“. 2NE1 is currently in preparation of releasing an English album and “Can’t Nobody” seems to be their first attempt at a crossover, however, the song would be a lot better without the auto-tune resounding throughout the entire thing. CL goes real hard in her very much hip hop influenced rapping, and the chorus is quite catchy. Anyways, check out the music video below, which is not much different from the Korean version. Continue reading ““Can’t Nobody” hold 2NE1 down, in English that is…”

Too Fat, Too Skinny! What’s wrong with this world?

Why is it that some concern themselves about others’ weight? Why should it be an issue if someone is skinny, or packing a few pounds? It shouldn’t, it’s their own body. In my opinion, if you are comfortable and healthy in your skin, then don’t listen to what other people say, or even go over the top with dieting or other drastic weight loss measures.

I’ve often wondered why some young girls and mature women would hurt themselves to look like a model or celebrity in a magazine, or whatever other stuff contributed to their insecurities with their bodies. I definitely think the entertainment industry plays a part in that; Continue reading “Too Fat, Too Skinny! What’s wrong with this world?”

Spotlight – Taeyang

Tae Yang

Meet Taeyang, a South Korean Kpop singer, dancer, songwriter, and producer. He began his training in YG Entertainment, a company for artists wanting to pursue R&B/Urban music, at the young age of 12. After six years of vocal and dance training, he made his debut as a member of BIG BANG.

In 2008, Taeyang released his first solo mini album titled “Hot“. He incorporated mostly R&B songs on the album, as it was the genre of music he loved. He wasn’t as happy with the album due to the fact that he didn’t get the chance to write any of the songs. However, the album was well received by fans and music critic alike; he won ‘Best R&B/Soul Song’ for his single ‘Only Look At Me‘, and ‘Best R&B/Soul Album’ for “Hot” at the 7th Korean Music Awards.

Continue reading “Spotlight – Taeyang”

GD & TOP takes it “High High”

GD & TOP of BIG BANG released the music video for their single “HIGH HIGH” on YouTube, and boy did they create a lot of hype around it. I must admit, the first time I saw the video, I thought it was whack! but as I listened to it and got caught up into the character of the guy calling himself TOP, I started liking it.

“HIGH HIGH” is from their self titled album, which will be released on December 24. “GD & TOP” will also feature Park Bom of 2NE1.Β The music video for “HIGH HIGH” was shot in a nightclub, not sure of the location, but they had a lot of foreigners up in there. A few members of the YG family, including fellow BIG BANG member Taeyang, who produced the dance number with Teddy, was also seen in the video.

If you haven’t seen the music video yet, though I don’t know how you’d miss it, check it out below:

Continue reading “GD & TOP takes it “High High””

2NE1 says “Don’t Stop The Music”

The CF/Music Video for 2NE1‘s “Don’t Stop the Music” was recently released and it’s quite the dance number. The song is a promotional theme for the Yamaha Fiore scooter in Thailand. How do you create hype for a new product? Get 2NE1 to endorse it.

The video is quite fun, with a lot of creativity (and colors). The choreography is cool too. In my opinion, the song is good, but without the vocal adjustments, it would be great. Β Check it out for yourself below:

Continue reading “2NE1 says “Don’t Stop The Music””

Auto-Tune 2: Will The Real Singers Please Stand Up

Gone are the days when singers were freely and passionately singing without the help of “pitch correction”, yes, IΒ am referring to the infamousΒ auto-tune. This is a continuation of my previous post, “what do you think about auto-tune?” Why the continuation you wonder? it’s because i’m truly annoyed with this audio processor that is plaguing the music industry.

Too many artists are utilizing auto-tune into their music:Β Ke$ha, T-Pain, The Black Eyed Peas, Akon, Kanye West, Jason Derulo, Rihanna, Lil Wayne, and quite a few others. I found it rather ironic that Jay-Z released a single titled “DOA (Death of Auto-tune)”, but still used the device on another track, and on the same album (ain’t that funny).

Continue reading “Auto-Tune 2: Will The Real Singers Please Stand Up”

2NE1 Says “It Hurts” on Halloween

2NE1 has released the music video for their 4th single “It Hurts” from the “To Anyone” album.

The song is more of a ballad compared to their other releases, and the music video has a halloween theme to it. It was quite amazingly directed, depicting the four young ladies in pure sadness; Dara sheds tears realising that her love is no longer with her. In my opinion, Bom owns this song with her remarkable vocals, but it’s nice to see the girls really sing so passionately.

Check it out: Continue reading “2NE1 Says “It Hurts” on Halloween”

Spotlight – 2NE1

Meet 2NE1, a kpop, Hip Hop and R&B group hailing from South Korea. 2NE1 stands for “New Evolution of the 21st Century“; They are signed to YG Entertainment, a South Korean label with strong Hip Hop influences.

The group gained popularity upon the release of the LG promotional song “Lollipop“, Continue reading “Spotlight – 2NE1”

Music Is Universal

It’s amazing how music can break down walls and cross borders with the message it conveys, arousing different emotions inside each of us. Its this mere fact that allows musicians to develop a fan base and perform in different countries.

I’ve often asked myself, why is music so powerful? why am I able to be moved even by words I don’t understand? It all comes down to the fact that music is truly universal. Continue reading “Music Is Universal”