BREAKING

8/31/2011

U-KISS to release new album in September



SEOUL: K-pop boyband U-KISS will be launching its second full-length album "Neverland" on September 8, which is good news for fans as there'll be more stage acts for the boys as they embark on a series of promotional activities for the new album.

The band created buzz recently when its new song from the "Neverland" album, released online on its official website in August, sent servers crashing after a large number of its fans rushed to the site to access the song.

The band's agency NH Media said U-KISS would be the only male group that would be promoting its new album in September. The group's last full length album "Only One" was released in February last year.

Debuted in 2008, the seven-member band saw its popularity rise following the success of its breakout song "Man Man Ha Ni".

Meanwhile, popular girl groups like KARA, SNSD (Girls' Generation) and Brown Eyed Girls are also scheduling comebacks.

SNSD's album - its first in nearly a year and eight months – is expected to sweep the major charts, and some music labels are reportedly delaying releases and debuts to avoid head-on competition.

-CNA/mt

Source: Channel News Asia

- Justin -

Blush ‘Undivided’ feat. Snoop Dogg Climbs Up to #3 at the US Billboard Dance Charts





Los Angeles, USA – Having already performed the song on national TV, BLUSH’s debut single “Undivided” (featuring Snoop Dogg) vaulted its way into the Top Ten (this week at #3) on the Billboard Dance/Club Play Chart.  This follows club performances for BLUSH–Victoria, Natsuko, Angeli, Ji Hae and Alisha–in Los Angeles (The Colony, Eleven, Avalon, and Rage).

BLUSH debuted “Undivided” to the world when they opened for Justin Bieber earlier this year in Hong Kong. Last month, the Pan-Asian group (together the girls represent China, Japan, Korea, India and the Philippines) made their U.S. TV debut on FOX’s wildly popular “So You Think You Can Dance.”  This came on the heels of the debut of their hotly anticipated global debut single which premiered on Yahoo.com via the animated video for “Undivided” to an overwhelming response.  The animated clip for “Undivided” which also featured Snoop Dogg marked the first-ever music video created solely utilizing the Brushes App for iPad.

“Undivided” is an irresistible anthem of solidarity and devotion that heralds the arrival of a group that embodies the style and spirit of girls everywhere, all with a sound and attitude like no other international act today.  The “Undivided” track is produced by Darrell Brown (Keith Urban, Bon Jovi) and Steve Schnur (veteran A&R executive and producer of over 150 soundtrack albums, including tracks by Florence + The Machine and Busta Rhymes) and mixed by Manny Marroquin (Pink, Rihanna).  The song’s seductive message of empowerment showcases each girl’s breakout vocals and energy, and each BLUSH member’s personality is as distinctive as her background:

• Victoria–‘Queen V’–is the regal and poised singer/dance with model-looks and an extensive gymnast background who while being raised in Hong Kong recorded several successful singles for the Chinese market.

• Natsuko–‘Nacho’–is the Japanese dance-crew veteran with a Hip-Hop vocal soul.

• Angeli is the sensual singer from the Philippines who was former lead singer of two bands as well as a top contestant on Pinoy Idol.

• Ji Hae born and raised in Korea, is the seemingly shy former law student with an R&B heart who has earned the nickname ‘Tiger’ because of her wild side.

• Alisha–‘Ali B’–is the youngest member, a multi-talented and multi-lingual Hindi singer/dancer who brings together Bollywood and Salsa with Hip-Hop and World Pop.

The girls are managed by FarWest Entertainment – a Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Singapore-based independent production company that delivers unique multi-platform global entertainment, including Television, Music, Movies, Animation and other high-quality digital content. Creativity is the universal language: Our mission is to bridge Asia and the West through exclusive intellectual properties, distinctive corporate focus and some of the best new entertainment ventures in the world.  More information can be found at:  www.farwest.tv.

 Special Thanks to Jad Deveza for sending us this tip! :)

Source: PRAsia

- Justin -

8/29/2011

Spongecola Reveals "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay" Audio Teaser





With their brand new album "Araw Oras Tagpuan" (Day Time Meeting) set to be released this coming September, Spongecola finally brings up their first audio teaser for their song "Kay Tagal Kitang Hinintay" (I Have Waited You For Long).

The song was freaking awesome and just reminds me of the old version of the group where the songs are very sentimental and has a deeper emotional impact.

I just can't wait for the full song and music video to be released. Well, I just hope that the mv was as good as the song itself.

By the way, according to them, the song is the 6th track for the album.





- Justin -

8/28/2011

Milestone: Billboard launches K-pop chart



MANILA, Philippines - Korean pop music has been recognized by US music chart publisher Billboard as an important musical genre.

Billboard launched its Billboard K-pop Hot 100 chart with the aim of providing fans with the “most accurate” music chart.
In an article on Billboard.com, Silvio Pietroluongo, Billboard chart director, described the new chart as a “milestone event."
“The launch of the Billboard K-Pop Hot 100 chart is a milestone event, as it will provide the Korean music market with what we believe is Korea's most accurate and relevant song ranking,” he said.
The K-pop Hot 100 chart will be based on digital sales from leading Korean music websites and downloads from mobile service websites. Billboard also launched its Billboard Korea site to focus on Korean music.
“The K-Pop Hot 100 debuts simultaneously here on Billboard.com, in the international chart section of Billboard.biz, in Billboard magazine, and also on Billboard Korea's website, billboard.co.kr,” according to the Billboard.com article.
In the last few years, K-pop artists have managed to enter the Billboard chart including the Wonder Girls, Jay Park, Super Junior, Big Bang and 2NE1.
Kim Boom Soo was the first Korean singer to enter the Billboard chart when his song “Hell Goodbye Hello” peaked at No. 51 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2001.
In the first K-pop Hot 100 chart, girl group Sistar took the No. 1 spot with the song “So Cool."
The second to tenth places went to Leessang with “I Turned Off the TV," 2NE1 with “Ugly," T-ara’s “Roly-Poly," miss A’s “Goodbye Baby," 10cm’s “Hold Me," Super Junior’s “Mr. Simple," JYJ Kim Junsu’s “You Are So Beautiful," Rain’s “Busan Girl” and Baek Ji Young’s “I Still Love You Today."
"We're excited to be expanding Billboard's globally recognized Hot 100 chart franchise into this country, and look forward to enhancing the K-Pop Hot 100 chart in the near future with additional data as well as creating new charts that showcase the breadth of Korean music,” said Pietroluongo in the Billboard article.

Source: Manila Bulletin

- Justin -

8/26/2011

U-Kiss' New Album: Neverland Track List



Taking us to a tour to their new world, U-Kiss brings us their second album entitled "Neverland".

With 13 tracks to choose from ranging from dance to mellow genres, the album is packed with nothing but the best from them.


Although I haven't heard any song from the album except "Someday", by just the looks of their music video teaser for "Neverland" makes every fan crave for them. It

Also, there is this track, "See You Again" that makes it special because it is a collaboration between them and AJ's previous group, Paran.

So, finally... here is the track list for their newest and latest album


01. Intro
02. Neverland
03. Baby Don't Cry
04. Someday
05. Take Me Away
06. On The Floor
07. 친구의 사랑
08. 4월 이야기
09. Obsession
10. Top That
11. Tell Me Y
12. 다시 만나요 (U-KISS with PARAN)
13. Someday (instrumental)

- Justin -

Yeng Constantino Releases "Paniwalaan Mo" MV



 

Reviving the classic song "Paniwalaan Mo" (Believe It) by Dingdong Avanzado, Yeng Constantino fuses the classical tune with a contemporary flavor.

Well, the rendition is amazing especially to those mellow rock fanatic though I prefer the original one. However, the song is still good though it kind of lacks that dramatic feeling that you can hear from the first version.

Still, I find the song nice to hear. And by the way, if you are wondering why the music video is just like a recording from some of her concerts, it is! Because it is in her new album "Yeng Versions Live".

My Rating: 8.9/10





- Justin -

Maria Aragon to sing in Pacquiao’s next fight



After Charice, it's now Maria Aragon's turn to sing the Philippine National Anthem before a big crowd that is expected to watch Manny Pacquiao's next fight in November.
Pacquiao has chosen the young YouTube sensation to sing the "Lupang Hinirang" in his fight against Juan Manuel Marquez at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 12.

Maria's manager Jeng Guiyab relayed the news to Yahoo! Philippines OMG! on Friday, August 26 when the young singer, who impressed Lady Gaga with her version of "Born This Way," performed at the Yahoo! Philippines Pitong Pinoy Awards held at the Seventh High Lounge, Bonifacio Global City.
"Manny himself confirmed the news to us," Jeng said.
Maria impressed the crowd, composed of the event's awardees and members of the press, with her rendition of "Born This Way" as she played a white baby grand piano on stage.
The young recording artist, who recently released her self-titled debut album under Star Records, gave in to requests for an encore by performing Jessie J's "Price Tag."
Maria performed "Born This Way" with Lady Gaga at "The Monster Ball Tour" in Toronto. The Filipina performer also joined Lady Gaga at the Air Canada Centre, where Maria performed an acoustic duet of "Born this Way" while sitting on Gaga's lap.
Maria went on to earn a standing ovation when she performed in Ellen DeGeneres' show last February.
The Fil-Canadian sensation also performed the Canadian national anthem, "O Canada" before William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, when the Royal Couple visited the country in early July.
Maria has also released a self-titled album under Star Records.

Source: OMG Yahoo! PH


- Justin -

8/25/2011

Wei Chen Performs "Run Away" and "Po Xiao" on MNet





Invading the Korean world, it was a surprise to all when singer Wei Chen performed on the stage of the prestigious MNet's M!Countdown this week.

Singing his song "Po Xiao" which is the titular plug song for his upcoming album and "Run Away" which is a collaboration between Lee Joon and Cheon Dung of MBLAQ.

At first, I was very impressed and glad for finally, a C-Pop artist in invading the Korean music scene and both genres are trying to fuse their sounds and make a new craze. Also, the song "Run Away" was in the Korean language that I was surprised for I didn't know that Wei Chen knows how to speak that language.

Now, is it the start for the opening of more opportunities for more C-Pop artists..?? I hope so..




 

 
 
<�m> 

8/24/2011

AKB48's Atsuko Maeda and Yuko Oshima Poses with Jang Geun-suk




AKB48 singers Atsuko Maeda, 20, left, and Yuko Oshima, 22, right, strike a cool pose with South Korean actor Jang Geun-suk, 24, at a promotional event for Aesthetic TBC at the Conrad Hotel in Tokyo on Wednesday. The trio will be appearing in a new ad campaign titled “Open your beauty” (signified by the keys they are holding). The campaign will consist of billboards in 200 locations in seven cities, posters at JR stations and TV commercials which will air from Sept 7.

Source: Japan Today

- Justin -

Jay Chou to pay $25,000 to release Hannah Quinlivan from work contract?



The Asian superstar is reportedly helping his rumoured girlfriend out of a sticky work situationJay Chou and Hannah Quinlivan

Last week, Taiwanese singer Jay Chou was spotted on a vacation in Europe with rumoured girlfriend Hannah Quinlivan. At a recent concert, the singer also expressed his desire of becoming a father.

Yesterday, a report claimed that Jay was going to spend NT$6 million (S$25,000) to release Hannah from her current contract.

It is believed that 18-year-old Hannah -- who started her showbiz career four years ago -- had told her management agency that her current work was not helping her achieve what she wants in showbiz. That reportedly caused jobs to be withheld from her.

There were rumours that Jay had commissioned someone to help Hannah out, and was willing to pay the NT$6 million compensation, should Hannah decide to terminate her contract.

Hannah's manager denied the report and said that they were still giving Hannah assignments.

"I've never heard of the rumour, neither did anyone call to ask about Hannah's contract," he said.

A representative from Jay's company also commented that Jay "had no intention of buying Hannah out of her contract and would not interfere with her work".

However, he admitted that the singer had shown Hannah concern as a friend.

Source: Xin MSN

- Justin -

8/23/2011

Marie Digby Releases "Your Love" MV





With her new album "Your Love" to be released on September 4, Marie Digby releases her first music video from the album that bears the same title.

Singing amazingly just like the way she used to do, I found the song very attractive and likable though the chorus part which repeats the words "Your love...." seems a bit mediocre. However, I love the softness of her voice and how the song compliments her personality. Also, the changes in the melody and tempo. But just like a comment on YouTube, I wish that she has some guy to accompany her voice. How about some duet right there..??

Still, the song is good and the music video was okay for me.

My Rating: 9.7/10
 


- Justin -

Ella Chen Shares Her Copy of "My Love" Album



With her co-member Hebe Tian releasing an album entitled "My Love", Ella Chen proudly supports her best friend by sharing a photo of herself kissing the album.


And on her Weibo account she posted:

拿到吳買樂了，開心始了啦！喔，買樂買樂 
Just received wu my love, so happy! oh, my love my love!

 It was really a nice photo and a proof that even if they are starting on their own now, the just loved each other so much that they can't let them down. And Ella do looks lovely in that.. Cute~!

Photo Credits: Banana x Mushroom, Ella's Weibo
Translation by: tohebe @ tumblr

- Justin -

Wu Chun Relieves Stress With Video Games





courtesy of takungpao.com

To coordinate with MY KINGDOM (DAI MO SUN)'s September release, Celestial Entertainment announced the first Chinese film game app for iPad so viewers could learn more about the film through the game. As soon as Wu Chun learned about the iPad version release could not wait to try it for himself.
Wu Chun said, "I downloaded it to play on my iPhone. Rarely playing games, I thought it was very fresh and interesting. In the end maybe because I was too involved, my hands were somewhat sore from playing, now the iPad version release to me is good news. Because I am very busy at work, sometimes I really need to play games to relieve some stress."
Speaking of taking a break, Wu Chun recalled the MY KINGDOM production. "When waiting for places with actors, we would think of ways to relax a little. Not only can we ease the tension but also improve our relationships. For example when I am in the Monkey King make up, I would drag Han Geng into playing Sun Wukong" Wu Chun and Han Geng did not let go of the change to work with magician Liu Qian. They asked him to teach them minor magic tricks during breaks. However magic was truly too complicated and they both failed in the end.
 
Source: HKTopTen

- Justin -

Rico Blanco tells public school kids how to get to ‘Sesame Street’



Multi-awarded artist Rico Blanco has teamed up with the producers of the TV show Sesame Street to encourage learning among Filipino kids.
The campaign, called "Sesame Street Kid Ako (I am a Sesame Street Kid)," will be touring various public schools in the country.  As the country's Sesame Street Ambassador, Rico will be doing his own rendition of some of the children's show's classic songs.
"I've always credited Sesame Street as one of my biggest musical influences," says Rico.  "Shaping my taste in music as a kid, and the kind of music I would later gravitate to as a grown-up."
With his musical career spanning almost two decades, and having been behind his former band Rivermaya's biggest hits, it's not hard to believe.  His solo album, "Your Universe," is as eclectic as only Rico Blanco can get.
With the support of his label Warner Music Philippines, Rico is releasing a rock version of the classic Sesame Street song "Ladybugs' Picnic."  For those who did not grow up watching the show, the song teaches how to count to the number twelve, as demonstrated by, well, twelve ladybugs having a picnic.

The new rocked-up rendition hits the airwaves this week.
Rico has also recorded another Sesame Street classic, the hippie folk-ish "Lowercase N."  He injects his signature sound to this children's song that becomes a melancholy but ultimately redemptive rock ballad about the lonely letter character. This will be released soon and available for download on web and mobile.

 Rico Blanco was obviously thrilled to be part of this campaign.  "I feel blessed to be given this chance to help."

Source: Yahoo OMG PH

- Justin - 

8/20/2011

Juris Releases "Kahit Di Mo Sabihin" MV





Going for her sophomore album "Forevermore", Juris Fernandez makes a comeback with her music video for "Kahit Di Mo Sabihin" (Even If You Don't Say).

Named as the continuation song for "Di Lang Ikaw" (You're Not The Only One) which made her famous, the dramatic and stillness of the song is sure to make you a tearjerk.

The song is about how you feel when you don't feel that spark in the relationship you're in anymore. A very soulful and heartbreaking song, I really find it amazing although the jellyfish parts in the music video makes it quite unusual to watch.

However, the whole song itself captivates the soul in every listener. That's basically it!!

My Rating: 9.9/10







- Justin -

Hebe Tian Unveils "My Love" MV





With the release of her album on September 2, Hebe Tian unveils her first music video for "My Love".


The song and the album bears the same title and I am not surprised that it turned out very amazing.

Though the song quite sounds like "Like Lonely Lonely", I find it amusing especially with its unusual melody.

And the music video depicts different personas and messages that it is hard to translate. But I love the part where she is standing in a group of people in clay mud. And in the ending, she was just so gorgeous.

My Rating: 10/10






- Justin -

8/19/2011

SM Entertainment stock prices reach a record high, Lee Sooman sets a 142 billion won record



SM Entertainment, one of Korea's largest domestic entertainment agencies, has seen much success in recent days. After a press conference and signing ceremony for the corporation's first overseas joint venture SM True were held, the company's share prices experienced a rapid increase.

SM Entertainment was approved and listed in KOSDAQ (Korea's independent stock market, the counterpart of the American NASDAQ) in April 2000. At the time, the company managed BoA, H.O.T., Isak, S.E.S., and Milk. Since their record low of 935 won in October 2008, SM Entertainment has experienced a steady increase in stock prices. For the first time since its record high of 65,600 won in June 2000, SM Entertainment saw a sharp increase of its stock prices, closing with a high of 30,700 won on August 17.

SM Entertainment's founder Lee Sooman, who holds the most company shares with 4,041,465 shares (24.43% of the company shares), saw his shares reach a value of 135 billion won.

On August 18, SM Entertainment's shareholders saw stock prices rising in the morning. By 9:13am, prices had risen to 35,100 won per share, a record for the company. Accordingly, Lee Sooman's shares hit 141.85 billion won, another increase setting a new record.

Although SM Entertainment's operating profits fell in the second quarter of this year, the steady increase in stock prices can be interpreted as faith in SM Entertainment as a company.

SM Town artists have been extremely successful through concerts, album sales, and their other promotions. It has been predicted that SM artists Super Junior, SHINee, SNSD, and f(x), who attract both domestic and overseas attention and sales, will assist SM Entertainment's rising stock prices to the point that Lee Sooman's company shares will exceed 140 billion won; some anticipate him to even reach 150 billion won.

Upcoming promotions have also been indicated as possible factors behind the recent rise in SM stock prices. SM artists will perform at the Tokyo Dome in Japan on September 2-4. The event is estimated to draw a crowd of over 15,000 audience members.

Source: Nate (1, 2, 3), Businessweek, and Yahoo! Finance, Koreaboo

- Justin -

Korean group After School to collaborate with Hello Kitty




TOKYO —
All-girl South Korean pop group After School is collaborating with Japan’s Hello Kitty character, according to a statement by the group’s management Pledis Entertainment and Sanrio Co, which manufactures and markets the Hello Kitty brand.

After School made their official debut in Japan on July 17 with a concert at Akasaka BLITZ. Kitty-chan appears with the 8-member group in the Japanese music video for their single “Bang!” that was released on Wednesday. Kitty-chan appears in the video, dressed like a marching girl, and also appears on the CD jacket.
On Sept 9, After School will return to Japan to take part in a mini-live event during which Hello Kitty merchandise will be sold.
Source: Japan Today
- Justin -

Cyndi Wang was a victim of bullying when she first got into showbiz



HONG KONG: Taiwan singer-actress Cyndi Wang's career has come a long way since she joined showbiz in 2003, appearing in a number of notable idol dramas and releasing eight albums to date.

But the 28-year-old star revealed during a recent magazine interview that she was bullied by a particularly nasty make-up artist she worked with, during one of her television appearances early in her career, reported Hong Kong media.

"When I first started acting, the make-up artist drew on my eyebrows with one higher than the other.

"I asked him about it but he said it was not noticeable on camera, and I couldn't do anything," said Wang.

She got into more trouble with the same make-up artist when she tried to help a fellow actress, who had drawn her eyebrows too thick, fix her make-up.

"That girl didn't know how to draw her eyebrows. Out of respect, I asked the make-up artist and he said okay, so I helped her draw them.

"I never thought that I was but halfway through when the make-up artist stormed in and knocked my hand away, scolding me with vulgarities and asking why I touched his work," said Wang.

Wang expressed that she was scared witless at being berated on the busy streets of the Ximending shopping district in Taipei, and was amazed how the make-up artist could show so little respect for her.

She added that this was one of the incidents that made her strive to develop her career.

"When I was a newbie, I did not have a choice. Now I do and I can choose not to work with him!" Wang said.

No more dating within the entertainment industry

Although Wang had been quite successful in her career, the same could not be said about her romantic relationships.

She had a public spat with her ex-boyfriend Fan Zhi Wei last year when Fan made comments about her chastity, years after they broke up in 2005.

Wang said she has grown a lot through her relationships so far and hopes her next romance would be with a man not of the entertainment industry.

"One party in the public eye is enough. It is really very tiring if both people are public figures.

"The tree diagram of our relationship will always sway back and forth," Wong explained.

-CNA/ha

Source: Channel News Asia

- Justin -

8/17/2011

Toni Gonzaga set to stage 10th anniversary concert in Araneta



Toni Gonzaga is celebrating her 10 years of being in showbiz through a big concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on September 30, 2011.

Toni Gonzaga 2011 concert poster

Titled "Tony G. @ 10", the concert will be directed by Star Magic's Mr. M (Johnny Manahan) and will be guested by John Lloyd Cruz, Piolo Pascual, Vhong Navarro, Alex Gonzaga, Pokwang and many more surprise guests.

Tickets for the concert are now being sold at various TicketNet outlets nationwide and are priced as follows:

Seat Location Price
VIP (Reserved Seating) 3710
PATRON (Reserved Seating) 3180
LOWER BOX (Reserved Seating) 2650
UPPER BOX A (Reserved Seating) 795
UPPER BOX B375
GENERAL ADMISSION215

"Ultimate Multimedia Star" Toni Gonzaga, 27, started out her career on GMA-7 but later moved to ABS-CBN after she was chosen to host "Pinoy Big Brother." Since then, Toni became a household name, invaded the different multimedia forms and eventually reached stardom.


Source: Noypi Stuff

- Justin -

Angeline Quinto Releases "You're My Home" MV



 

Showing nationwide today, the movie that has the brightest teen star of today, "Way Back Home" has finally reached its peak.

And in addition to that, a music video for its theme song "You're My Home" was also released.

Sung by Lea Salonga and Odette Quesada way back before, Angeline Quinto's version was a certified hit. For it not only captivates the hearts of the listeners but it also managed to maintain the soulfulness of the song.

 Although the music video shows clips of the movie and Angeline recording the song, I wish that somehow, they created a story for the song itself was that amazing. And she really did justice to it!

One of my favorites from her, I really do think that it was one of her best singles.

My Rating: 10/10 
  






- Justin -

Hebe Tian's New Album: My Love Track List



After months of waiting, the track list for Hebe Tian's new album "My Love" has finally been revealed! Hooray!!

The album is composed of 10 different tracks including some which she penned herself. Her first plug "What To Say" was written by her and whose music video was scheduled to be released tomorrow.


Also, the album contains the song "You" who was written by Soda Green's Qin Feng which is dedicated to her co-member in S.H.E., Selina.

And now, for the moment everyone's been waiting for... (drum rolls!!!) here it is:

Track List:


  1. Utopia (烏托邦) 
  2. What To Say (要說什麼) 
  3. My Love 
  4. Please Give Me A Better Rival In Love (請給我好一點的情敵) 
  5. Still Be Happy (還是要幸福) 
  6. Devil's Angels (魔鬼中的天使) 
  7. Trouble out of Nothing (無事生非) 
  8. Fast-paced World (花花世界) 
  9. Shadow's Shadow (影子的影子) 
  10. You (妳) 
 - Justin -

Marcelito Pomoy's Debut Album: Duet Yourself



Going for his debut, Pilipinas Got Talent Season 2 Winner Marcelito Pomoy releases his first ever album entitled "Duet Yourself" months after his great win.

Gaining popularity for his extreme dual voice that can sing both female and male voices, I was really in an awe after hearing his rendition of the classic "Narito Ako" (I Am Here) by Regine Velasquez.


Now, with a brand new album, packed with 15 tracks including 5 minus one's and 5 instrumentals, the album is not bad after all.

However, I find the songs quite old and too classic and hoped that he would sing some original ones. Plus, 5 tracks isn't that much. Also, it didn't include his audition piece by Regine. But, it did has his winning song, "The Prayer".

The album is good though you would really think twice buying. How about just wait for the second one. Maybe that would be better!

My Rating: 8.5/10

Track List:

  1. The Prayer
  2. Hanggang Ngayon
  3. Let The Love Begin
  4. Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang
  5. Forever
  6. The Prayer (minus 1)
  7. Hanggang Ngayon( minus 1)
  8. Let The Love Begin (minus 1)
  9. Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang (minus 1)
  10. Forever (minus 1)
  11. The Prayer (instrumental)
  12. Hanggang Ngayon (instrumental)
  13. Let The Love Begin (instrument
  14. Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang (instrume
  15. Forever (instrumental)
 - Justin -

Female Korean celebrities forced into sex



Yet another sex scandal has hit the Korean entertainment industry, well known for its "casting couch" practices of trading sexual favours for opportunities.
This time, sex photos featuring several female Korean stars have been leaked and circulated around the Internet.
 
 

A total of 37 set of sex photos have been leaked, featuring a number of A- and B-list female celebrities from the Korea's 107G channel.
 
The celebrities have starred in several popular K-dramas and were believed to have been pressured into sex while being photographed secretly.
 
One of the most famous victims of such practices is Jang Ja-Yeon, a Korean actress, who died at the age of 26 after she took her own life in March 2009. She had left several letters claiming that she had been forced to have sex with industry people more than a hundred times.
 
Netizens have said that the "casting couch" practice is an open-secret in the Korean entertainment industry. An earlier survey showed that about 60 per cent of female artistes in Korea have been asked to exchange sexual favours for casting opportunities.

While not all celebrities have been forced into exchanging sexual favours for opportunities, many know of someone who has had to do so.
 
Source: Diva Asia
- Justin -

SM Entertainment establishes first overseas joint venture SM True with Kangta as director



(originally posted as: SM Entertainment establishes first overseas joint venture SM True with Kangta as director, performances by SHINee)

On August 16, it was announced that SM had established their first overseas joint venture. "SM True Co. Ltd" (to be abbreviated SM True for the purposes of this article) is SM Entertainment's newest venture, shared with Thailand's True Visions Group.

A press conference and signing ceremony were held on August 16 in Bangkok, Thailand. Due to the overflowing interest from fans and the local media, the press conference had two parts: The first catered to media like Daily News and the Bangkok Post, while Channel V, The Music Channel 3579, Seventeen Magazine, and other Thailand entertainment outlets were privy to the second part.

SM Entertainment's Kim Youngmin will take on the role of CEO. At the conference, he stated that SM True had been established as a joint venture with True Visions Group, which is Thailand's biggest distribution source. The joint venture will allow SM Entertainment to distribute their wide range of compelling content faster and more effectively, with the help of True Vision Group's advantageous powerful network infrastructure.

SM True will handle distribution through broadcasts and Internet, concerts, and promotions for SM Entertainment's artists in Thailand. SM True will take on the role of a local management label, identifying talent, developing, and debuting new artists.

Starting with the SM True joint venture in Thailand, SM Entertainment aims to increase their distribution and thus their visibility not only in Asia, but on a worldwide scale. According to CEO Kim Youngmin, they plan to implement their business model so that they can further expand later on.

Those in attendance were able to see Kangta, who attended as SM True's director. At the conference, he stated that he appreciated the new challenge: While he has previously only worked in the capacity of a Hallyu star, he will take on a brand-new management role as SM True's director. His new role will require him to use his previous experiences and expertise in the industry in order to contribute to the development of SM True.

Source: Newsen, Koreaboo

- Justin -

Vic Chou talks about his depression



The Taiwanese actor commented that life meant nothing to him then

Taiwanese heartthrob Vic Chou shot to fame in 2001, after his role in drama Meteor Garden.

Sporting a moustache now, Vic said to the Chinese press, "But many people looked down on me, especially those in showbiz. Who is he? He's just a 'pretty vase'."

He added, "People might not believe me when I say this. When I first entered showbiz, all I wanted was to leave this industry. I kept thinking how I could get out of my contract and say goodbye to all these."

While drama offers came pouring in, Vic still hoped to keep a distance from showbiz because he had seen the things people do to reach the top. The actor was inevitably bullied because he is a person who "is unwilling to fight, and would rather do things quietly".

"I was struggling. With my kind of attitude, I would still be bullied, no matter where I worked; but not wanting to fight is my nature," Vic said.

Vic's emotional burden accumulated over the years, resulting in depression a few years ago.

"I was immune to pain and was unafraid of death, during the worst period when I had depression. Death became optional. In other words, I would die, if I wanted to die today," he let on.

The actor might have talked about his illness lightly now, but his condition was rather severe back then.

"Luckily, I have positive-thinking friends, who were willing to listen to me, towards the end of my therapy, and I would tell them about my condition. You're actually helping yourself, if you're willing to share. The negativity would decrease," Vic said.

Source: Xin MSN

- Justin -

8/13/2011

Selina Jen shares her wedding photo




The starlet looked every bit like a ravishing bride in her studio shots


It's been more than 10 months since S.H.E member Selina Jen was severely burnt in an on-set accident last October.


Her heath condition has been improving slowly and it was recently rumoured that Selina would be marrying her fiancé Richard Chang on Oct 31.


Before the accident happened, Selina had already shot a series of wedding photos, in preparation for the big day.


After the accident, the starlet shared that her body underwent major changes and decided to reshoot the photos, as a form of commemorating the turning point in her life.


At 3.27am, Selina updated her microblog with a photo of her in thick makeup. The picture was captioned: "Today, I put on thick makeup, bundled my newly-grown hair and wore the Vera Wang gown, which had been waiting for me the last six months."


This sparked speculations that the photo is part of a new series of wedding pictures.


"Ella cried and said I still looked beautiful. Richard cried, recalling the days when I was much more active. Dad cried and told me today is the 294th day [since the accident]," Selina wrote on her blog, revealing how her fiancé and father felt when they saw her in her wedding gown.


The starlet added, "I smiled, looking at the familiar, yet foreign camera lenses. I'm glad that the face is still the same. I'm glad that although the makeup is thick and my body is fatter, the photos could still be edited. I'm glad that the Lord allowed me to live."


Previously, Richard said that the couple would announce their wedding date after a meeting with the hotel this week. However, there has yet to be an announcement.


Source: Xin MSN

- Justin -

Julie Ann's "Super Bass" Cover Reaches 1.3M Views




Already named as YouTube's next rising star, Julie Ann San Jose's cover of Nicki Minaj's "Super Bass" has already acclaimed 1.3 million views a month after it was posted.

Her video shows her singing and doing rap of the song. Well, I was very impressed after hearing it because half of it was in rap and she did justice to the song.

In fact, I think it was better than the original..

Here is the video guys!! What do you think..??





- Justin - 

Rainie Yang's New Album: Longing For




Brand new look! Brand new image! Brand new sound! and last but not the least, a brand new album!!


That is how we can describe the new Rainie Yang with her newest work, "Longing For".

Packed with ten different tracks of fast and slow songs, the album will surely make you wonder if it is Rainie you are listening to.

Well, I really recommend her songs "Longing For", which is a faster track compared to others. Another must-hear is "We Are Silly", whose dramatic and soulful tone paves it way to the hearts of the listeners. One of my favorite track in the album is "Lovelution" which is more of a pop that it stands out to the rest which are slower.

My Rating: 10/10


Track List:


01. 仰望
02. 我們都傻
03. 缺陷美
04. Lovelution
05. 快轉
06. 結痂
08.
幸福預兆
09. 曬焦的一雙耳朵
10. 一個人的Happy Ending

- Justin  -

8/11/2011

Juris' New Album: Forevermore



After her successful debut as a solo artist, Juris Fernandez marks her comeback with yet another amazing album entitled "Forevermore".

With 12 different tracks to choose from, I am sure that there is that one special song that you can really relate to.


"Di Lang Ikaw" (Not Only You), a song from her debut album has made everyone be a tear-jerk. And now, she returns with another song "Kahit Di Mo Sabihin" (Even if You Don't Tell) whose lyrics really makes it similar to the other one. It even seems as if it is the second part of the her first major song.

What I love about the album is that it included two songs that is part of her debut album in Korea (it is a different album by the way. For more info regarding that, you can read it here) which is "If You And Me" and "Wishes".

So far, everything in the album is just so great even the album cover. Amazing!! Truly, another album that will make you cry.

My Rating: 10/10

Track List:

  1. Dreaming Away
  2. Forevermore
  3. I Believe In You
  4. Don't Say Goodbye
  5. Bliss
  6. Magkaibang Mundo
  7. Sabihin Mo Lang
  8. Minsan Lang Kitang Iibigin
  9. Kahit 'Di Mo Sabihin
  10. Not Like You
  11. If You And Me
  12. Wishes
 - Justin -

8/10/2011

2AM to make stage debut in Japan next year



Korean boy band 2AM will hit record stores in Japan by releasing their first album in the Asia’s biggest music industry next year, according to reports.

Following in the footsteps of 2PM -- the other group created along with 2AM when the boy band One Day split up -- the four-member group will present their Japanese debut song early next year, Japanese entertainment newspaper Sankei Sports reported.

Produced by the country’s influential artist Park Jin-young, 2AM is a vocal group famous for their sentimental music while 2PM, a six-member group, mesmerizes fans with their powerful dance and music with strong beats.
2AM will present their first new album “Saint O’clock” this year in Korea, before it hits stores in Japan next year.

Prior to their official debut scheduled next year, the group will participate in the joint concert “JYP Nation” in Saitama Super Arena next week.

By Kim Hee-cheol
Intern reporter
(kin_nim@hotmail.com)
Edited by Rob York

<한글 기사>　2AM '첫 코러스 그룹'으로 日진출 　아이돌 그룹 2AM이 내년 초 일본 가요계에 정식 데뷔한다.산케이스포츠는 “2PM의 형제그룹 2AM이 내년 초 일본에 데뷔한다”며 “일본에 진출하는 첫 코러스 그룹”이라고 9일자로 전했다.2AM은 내년 초 일본어 데뷔곡 발표에 앞서 국내 첫 정규 앨범 ‘세인트 어클락(Saint o’clock)‘을 올해 안으로 선보일 예정이며, 오는 17-18일 사이타마 슈퍼아레나에서 개최되는 'JYP네이션' 합동 콘서트에 참가한다. (연합뉴스)　

Source: Korea Herald

- Justin -

Several K-pop songs, videos banned



MANILA, Philippines - Korea’s Ministry of Gender Equality and Family has banned several K-pop songs and music videos that they deem harmful to the youth.

Under the directive, songs covered by the ban cannot be sold to minors under 19 years old and cannot be broadcast before 10 p.m.

One of those banned is the music video of “Before You Go” by K-pop duo TVXQ, this, supposedly, for containing scenes relating to violence as well as gambling. The ministry also banned Kim Hyun Joong’s “Please,” Homme’s “I Was Able to Eat Well” and the Faces’ “Accept Me” with lyrics that refer to smoking and drinking.

The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family is the Korean government’s media watchdog. It regularly monitors songs and music videos.

Last month, the ministry banned BEAST’s “Rainy Days” and Baek Ji Young’s “I Can’t Drink” having allegedly referenced drinking in its lyrics.

On the other hand, After School’s “Funky Man,” Jay Park’s “Don’t Let Go” and Heo Young Saeng’s “Out the Club” were banned for being purportedly sexual.

Also banned by the Ministry were MBLAQ’s "Again," DJ Doc’s “Joy and Pain,” Song Ji Eun’s “Going Crazy,” and Kang Seung Yoon’s “You’re My Heaven.”

Last week, 4-Minute’s Hyuna stopped the TV promotion of her song “Bubble Pop” after the Korea Broadcasting and Communications Review Committee ruled that the singer’s choreography and outfit were sexually suggestive.

Source: Manila Bulletin

- Justin -
Subscribe to: Comments (Atom)
 
Copyright © 2013 Taiwan Pop