Infinite’s Former Vocal Trainer Reveals to be a SPICA Member
SM Entertainment Plans to Break Into Asian Market
– January 11, 2012Posted in: K-pop News
Kara becomes first Asian girl group to rank in Oricon’s top 5
Korean female idols Kara will become the first Asian girl group to place in the top 10 on Japan’s prestigious Oricon chart, according to Japanese publication Oricon Style on Tuesday….
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2NE1, SNSD, and Wonder Girls at Forefront of US K-Pop Invasion
– January 11, 2012Posted in: K-pop News
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2NE1, SNSD, and Wonder Girls at Forefront of US K-Pop Invasion
– January 11, 2012Posted in: K-pop News
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‘K-Pop Power & Beauty’ Concert Postponed to April 22
– January 11, 2012Posted in: K-pop News
Infinite’s Former Vocal Trainer Reveals to be a SPICA Member
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‘K-Pop Power & Beauty’ Concert Postponed to April 22
– January 11, 2012Posted in: K-pop News
Infinite’s Former Vocal Trainer Reveals to be a SPICA Member
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K-Pop Hot 100: Singer IU Spends Fifth Week at No. 1
– January 11, 2012Posted in: K-pop News
Teen solo artist IU has started the new year in exactly the same way she closed out 2011: On top of the world and the charts. Her recently released single, “You and I,” has been perched atop the Billboard K-Pop Hot 100 chart for five consecutive weeks and running.
This is quite a feat considering that the highly digital nature of the Korean music market makes for very short stays at the No. 1 spot (the previous record was Davichi’s three-week stint).
CHART: Scan the K-Pop Hot 100
Reminiscent of British born singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae, IU’s angelic voice and cute girl-next-door charm combined with vocal abilities on par with much more experienced artists gives IU a unique appeal that has helped her secure a more age-diverse following. “You and I” is a bubbly tune depicting a girl daydreaming about the various stages of her future life with her lover. The usage of harps, horns, and other unique instruments coupled with IU’s crystal-clear voice has the ability to take the listener flying through IU’s romantic fantasy world.
To start 2012, we have decided to look back at three other artists who have achieved chart greatness by scoring the No. 1 rank for consecutive weeks in a row.
Two Weeks: T-ara’s “Cry Cry”
The seven young ladies of T-ara can look back on their successful 2011 and smile as they’ve recently enjoyed skyrocketing popularity in Japan with the Japanese version of their hit “Bo Peep Bo Peep.” In addition, one of their latest Korean singles “Cry Cry” achieved the top seat in the Billboard K-Pop Hot 100 chart for the weeks of Dec. 3rd and 10th. This song marks a departure of T-ara from its normal cutesy, bubble gum tunes and the group’s exploration into a more mature and sexy sound and look. In this Britney Spears-esque track, the girls sing about the tear-inducing heartbreak caused by a runaway lover.
Two Weeks: Hugak’s “Hello”
A common stereotype in the music industry is that reality TV winners are often all hype and rarely achieve real success after their time in the audition show spotlight fades. The Korean music industry is no exception, but Hugak, the winner of the second season of “Superstar K” exceeded all expectations when his debut single and soulful ballad, “Hello,” immediately snatched the No. 1 slot upon its debut– beating out some of the hottest girl groups including Kara and Brown Eyed Girls. Hugak was able to maintain the #1 ranking for two consecutive weeks (week of Oct. 8 and 15) and all of his preceding singles have also been met with great success.
Three Weeks: Davichi’s “Don’t Say Goodbye”
Davichi’s Heri Lee and Minkyung Kim are known as one of the most vocally skilled duos in the K-pop industry and the success of their second album “Love Delight” and title track “Don’t Say Goodbye” is proof of that. “Don’t Say Goodbye” is a medium-tempo pop ballad accompanied by strings and piano, which paints a picture of a woman lamenting the imminent breakup with her lover. When asked about the success of this track, the two women commented, “We tried to create a love song that could be enjoyed by listeners of all ages, not just youngsters. We believe the lyrics and melody have the power to bring back painful but cherished memories of past loves.” Davichi sure did achieve its goal of creating a song that can be enjoyed by a wide spectrum of listeners as the single spent three consecutive weeks (Sept. 17, 24 and Oct. 1) at No. 1.
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K-Pop Hot 100: Singer IU Spends Fifth Week at No. 1
– January 11, 2012Posted in: K-pop News
Teen solo artist IU has started the new year in exactly the same way she closed out 2011: On top of the world and the charts. Her recently released single, “You and I,” has been perched atop the Billboard K-Pop Hot 100 chart for five consecutive weeks and running.
This is quite a feat considering that the highly digital nature of the Korean music market makes for very short stays at the No. 1 spot (the previous record was Davichi’s three-week stint).
CHART: Scan the K-Pop Hot 100
Reminiscent of British born singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae, IU’s angelic voice and cute girl-next-door charm combined with vocal abilities on par with much more experienced artists gives IU a unique appeal that has helped her secure a more age-diverse following. “You and I” is a bubbly tune depicting a girl daydreaming about the various stages of her future life with her lover. The usage of harps, horns, and other unique instruments coupled with IU’s crystal-clear voice has the ability to take the listener flying through IU’s romantic fantasy world.
To start 2012, we have decided to look back at three other artists who have achieved chart greatness by scoring the No. 1 rank for consecutive weeks in a row.
Two Weeks: T-ara’s “Cry Cry”
The seven young ladies of T-ara can look back on their successful 2011 and smile as they’ve recently enjoyed skyrocketing popularity in Japan with the Japanese version of their hit “Bo Peep Bo Peep.” In addition, one of their latest Korean singles “Cry Cry” achieved the top seat in the Billboard K-Pop Hot 100 chart for the weeks of Dec. 3rd and 10th. This song marks a departure of T-ara from its normal cutesy, bubble gum tunes and the group’s exploration into a more mature and sexy sound and look. In this Britney Spears-esque track, the girls sing about the tear-inducing heartbreak caused by a runaway lover.
Two Weeks: Hugak’s “Hello”
A common stereotype in the music industry is that reality TV winners are often all hype and rarely achieve real success after their time in the audition show spotlight fades. The Korean music industry is no exception, but Hugak, the winner of the second season of “Superstar K” exceeded all expectations when his debut single and soulful ballad, “Hello,” immediately snatched the No. 1 slot upon its debut– beating out some of the hottest girl groups including Kara and Brown Eyed Girls. Hugak was able to maintain the #1 ranking for two consecutive weeks (week of Oct. 8 and 15) and all of his preceding singles have also been met with great success.
Three Weeks: Davichi’s “Don’t Say Goodbye”
Davichi’s Heri Lee and Minkyung Kim are known as one of the most vocally skilled duos in the K-pop industry and the success of their second album “Love Delight” and title track “Don’t Say Goodbye” is proof of that. “Don’t Say Goodbye” is a medium-tempo pop ballad accompanied by strings and piano, which paints a picture of a woman lamenting the imminent breakup with her lover. When asked about the success of this track, the two women commented, “We tried to create a love song that could be enjoyed by listeners of all ages, not just youngsters. We believe the lyrics and melody have the power to bring back painful but cherished memories of past loves.” Davichi sure did achieve its goal of creating a song that can be enjoyed by a wide spectrum of listeners as the single spent three consecutive weeks (Sept. 17, 24 and Oct. 1) at No. 1.
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Chinese New Year Transforms Las Vegas
– January 11, 2012Posted in: Mandopop
In Chinese astrology, The Year of the Dragon is marked by excitement, exhilaration, and intensity. This January, LasVegas rolls out the red carpet to welcome in the year that embodies the spirit of the destination.
“The Year of the Dragon fills people with energy, vitality, and unbridled enthusiasm,” said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). “We are excited to welcome Chinese New Year with vibrant celebrations that showcase Las Vegas’ global appeal.”
Chinese New Year in Las Vegas has a long rich tradition of being one of the most extravagant seasons on the destination’s calendar. The annual celebration is marked by traditional Lion Dances, extravagant décor, unique entertainment, and special culinary offerings.
For those drawn to the spectacle and pageantry of the traditional Lion Dances, check out the Wynn Las Vegas where the Dragon and Lion Dance ceremony takes place at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 27, The Venetian on Monday, Jan. 23 at 1 p.m., and The Gold Coast two Lion Dances on Feb 1 at 7:30 and 10 p.m. Caesars Entertainment Lion Dances will be on January 27 at 5 p.m. at Harrah’s Las Vegas, 6:15 p.m. at Imperial Palace Las Vegas, 7 p.m. at Flamingo Las Vegas and 10 p.m. at Rio All-Suite Hotel Casino. On January 28 at noon at Planet Hollywood Resort Casino, 1 p.m. at Paris Las Vegas, 2 p.m. at Bally’s Las Vegas and 5 p.m. at Caesars Palace.
All across the city resorts transform their properties with extravagant displays and elaborate décor. The Palazzo will display a 128-foot fire breathing dragon. The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens will feature over 22,000 colorful flowers and two 25 foot dragons. Wynn Las Vegas’ atriums will feature over 8,000 red and yellow chrysanthemums, silk dragons, and golden dragon sculptures measuring eight feet tall.
CONTINUES BELOW
Cultural entertainment offerings abound throughout the Year of the Dragon celebration. The Colosseum at Caesars Palace welcomes Mandopop star Wakin Chau in concert. The Fremont Street Experience will host a nightly festival with Chinese food and arts and crafts and cultural presentations on the 3rd Street Stage. Fantasy Stars in concert will be at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Jan. 28 for the celebration, welcoming Daniel Chan, Aska Yang, Alec Su and Wilber Pan.
The following world-class restaurants will offer special menus and festive culinary creations to honor the Chinese New Year. Luxor’s new Asian bistro Rice And Company will offer a traditional prix fixe menu and The Palazzo’s Zine Noodles Dim Sum and China Poblano at The Cosmopolitan will offer celebratory cuisines and festive cocktails as well.
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Chinese New Year Transforms Las Vegas
– January 11, 2012Posted in: Mandopop
In Chinese astrology, The Year of the Dragon is marked by excitement, exhilaration, and intensity. This January, LasVegas rolls out the red carpet to welcome in the year that embodies the spirit of the destination.
“The Year of the Dragon fills people with energy, vitality, and unbridled enthusiasm,” said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). “We are excited to welcome Chinese New Year with vibrant celebrations that showcase Las Vegas’ global appeal.”
Chinese New Year in Las Vegas has a long rich tradition of being one of the most extravagant seasons on the destination’s calendar. The annual celebration is marked by traditional Lion Dances, extravagant décor, unique entertainment, and special culinary offerings.
For those drawn to the spectacle and pageantry of the traditional Lion Dances, check out the Wynn Las Vegas where the Dragon and Lion Dance ceremony takes place at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 27, The Venetian on Monday, Jan. 23 at 1 p.m., and The Gold Coast two Lion Dances on Feb 1 at 7:30 and 10 p.m. Caesars Entertainment Lion Dances will be on January 27 at 5 p.m. at Harrah’s Las Vegas, 6:15 p.m. at Imperial Palace Las Vegas, 7 p.m. at Flamingo Las Vegas and 10 p.m. at Rio All-Suite Hotel Casino. On January 28 at noon at Planet Hollywood Resort Casino, 1 p.m. at Paris Las Vegas, 2 p.m. at Bally’s Las Vegas and 5 p.m. at Caesars Palace.
All across the city resorts transform their properties with extravagant displays and elaborate décor. The Palazzo will display a 128-foot fire breathing dragon. The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens will feature over 22,000 colorful flowers and two 25 foot dragons. Wynn Las Vegas’ atriums will feature over 8,000 red and yellow chrysanthemums, silk dragons, and golden dragon sculptures measuring eight feet tall.
CONTINUES BELOW
Cultural entertainment offerings abound throughout the Year of the Dragon celebration. The Colosseum at Caesars Palace welcomes Mandopop star Wakin Chau in concert. The Fremont Street Experience will host a nightly festival with Chinese food and arts and crafts and cultural presentations on the 3rd Street Stage. Fantasy Stars in concert will be at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Jan. 28 for the celebration, welcoming Daniel Chan, Aska Yang, Alec Su and Wilber Pan.
The following world-class restaurants will offer special menus and festive culinary creations to honor the Chinese New Year. Luxor’s new Asian bistro Rice And Company will offer a traditional prix fixe menu and The Palazzo’s Zine Noodles Dim Sum and China Poblano at The Cosmopolitan will offer celebratory cuisines and festive cocktails as well.
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China opts not to stir tension as Taiwan goes to polls
– January 11, 2012Posted in: Mandopop
The Irish Times – Wednesday, January 11, 2012
CLIFFORD COONAN in Beijing
WITH TAIWAN’S presidential elections taking place this weekend, what is notable across the strait dividing the island from mainland China is the absence of the usual sabre-rattling and harsh rhetoric before the polls.
The Xinhua news agency’s coverage of Taiwan this week shows no sign of China’s usual disquiet at the elections in its bitter rival, which has on occasion seen Beijing launch missiles in the direction of Taiwan.
It is almost like China is learning how to play a longer game. China sees Taiwan as a renegade province, to be brought back into the fold at any cost, by force if necessary, and its rhetoric generally reflects this. The state media likes to warn the parties in Taiwan that any attempt to set up an independent “republic of Taiwan” would end in war.
This week we have seen a light story about Taiwanese “Mandopop” singer Genie Chuo signing autographs to promote her new album and a favourable report about how mainland Chinese airlines are putting on hundreds of extra flights for Taiwanese businessmen who want to go home for the Chinese new year holiday.
There are an estimated one million Taiwanese in China.
There has even been a straight election story about the final preparations being made by the Kuo-mingtang (KMT) Nationalist candidates and the independence-minded Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) opposition.
Polls show China-friendly Ma Ying-jeou’s KMT still has a narrow lead over opposition leader Tsai Ing-wen. Mr Ma can point to the strong economic benefits that cross-strait closeness has brought and he describes the rapprochement as “the first line of defence”.
“The cross-strait rapprochement that began three years ago continues to bear fruit and increase regional peace and stability,” Mr Ma said in a recent speech. However, he warned the region’s future held many pitfalls.
“Intransigence, overconfidence or unilateral pursuit of national interests could lead to a losing scenario for all relevant parties,” he said.
Mr Ma has brought Taiwan and China closer than at any time since 1949, when the KMT, which used to run all of China, lost the civil war to the communists and fled to the island.
The KMT may be the Chinese Communist Party’s old enemies but this is a classic case of “better the devil you know”; there have also been no military manoeuvres to mark the elections.
Beijing has found working with Mr Ma much easier than his predecessor Chen Shui-bian, who is serving 17½ years for corruption and money laundering.
China is keen to keep tensions to a minimum as it gears up for its own leadership transition, which is expected to see President Hu Jintao hand over the reins to his anointed successor, Xi Jingping.
While a DPP victory would ordinarily raise hackles in Beijing, there is a sense that Ms Tsai is a different prospect to Mr Chen.
Unlike her predecessor, she rarely mentions independence, focusing more on Taiwan’s democracy – Taiwan is the only Chinese territory which can boast universal suffrage.
Song Chang Ui
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