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So much good news from our boys.missing they smile.
Brazil 3 goals in ten minutes?! Say what?!
When do you think JYJ will release their next album? I´m missing them singing together more and more.
End of the year?
Like a Christmas present? That will be great, but I also think that there are so tired. I will wait patiently and lovingly for it.
At first I was desperate for them to release a new album, but now i jaut will wait JYJ need to release a perfect album and put it inhaters face … hear many haters (and no haters) saying that in heaven was boring, i personally think in heaven was lovely album, but was a litter generic…i want JYJ to work with different composers and producers but also keep making their own music. I will wait will wait the necessary time…
@Alexa
“hear many haters (and no haters) saying that in heaven was boring” And you said “a little generic”.
Well, music tastes are subjective. That doesn’t mean it isn’t open for critiquing, on it’s music creds. But one person’s boring is another person’s finger popping. What you like, I may not and vice versa. The whole world thinks Adele is the bomb. She won a ton of Grammys. I listened to one video and came away unimpressed. I’m not saying she can’t sing. She just doesn’t do a thing for me vocally. See? That’s how it works.
But I would ask you to remember this. Yes, JYJ used to work with producers and songwriters hired by a big management company. Now they are on their own and creating their own work. They did it before and it proves they can still do it. But the guys are really just starting out. For all those folks — haters/non-haters — if the music isn’t to your liking, so what. These young men are finally getting a chance to do what they’ve always wanted to do, create.
Each album they do is going to be better than the one before it. Does anyone really believe the first Beatles album sounded the same/better than the last one? I don’t think so. Why does JYJ have to be held to a higher standard? If people are not willing to take these things into account, I believe it’s a fair assessment they will always find fault with whatever work JYJ produces.
For me, it just pleases me that they are happy doing what they want to. I don’t have any doubts that as their music careers progress, they are going to be an awesome industry force to be reckoned with. There is no rush here. JYJ has enough talent to last a very long time. Can these folks say the same about their favorites? How many of those haters are fans of artists who don’t get the chance to do their own work, or even have the talent to create their own?
In ten years let’s see where JYJ is, and let’s see where their faves are.
Your post made me so happy that I actually cried a little. Happy tears. Love JYJ……
butterfliesarefree2′s post, that is. (see? so emotional…..all confused.) Haha.
@Baffie
“music tastes are subjective” YUP!
“For me, it just pleases me that they are happy doing what they want to” HELL YEAH!!!
You said it, sis! I agree with your post 100%
@Emma Lin
@butterfilesarefree2
Perfect comment,friend. I love what you wrote”Each album they do is going to be better than the one before it…..How many of those haters are fans of artists who don’t get the chane to do their own work, or even have the talent to create their own?” That’s true, friend. If we listen the song they wrote in “THEIR ROOM, OUR STORY”, we will understand more.
My favorites songs are” FALLEN LEAVE”, ” EMPTY” , “GET OUT”, specially “FALLEN LEAVE” when they sing so amazing voices.
I play back many time to listen this songs, in other hand they can write the song by themselve.
All I read was ‘many haters (and no haters) saying that in heaven was boring’…so I guess all the haters just gonna hate because their bias album flopped or never received positive reviews from professional critics, let alone when they knew the profit & number of sales of the album..while no haters ~ all I can figure was that they are a bunch of people that just don’t have an ear for JYJ music genre! I also can say that Super Junior’s music was boring. One reason – I just don’t like their music!!
But know this, Junsu’s new album actually represent how huge JYJ music gap between these k-pop idols. Of course
IMO, their music essay has been their best body of work thus far.
I loved the new songs in In Heaven but I have to admit, as an album, it wasn’t the best. Really they had five songs from music essay plus four new songs that made up the album and it led to a very disjointed body of work. Individually the songs were all stand pieces but I prefer albums that are conceptual as a whole and have a strong thematic message. I think they really rushed to put out that album and I wish they had written and recorded all new songs for the album.
That being said, compare In Heaven to any kpop album out there and it’s still above and beyond the competition.
@mkverse
It may be a fair assessment that “In Heaven” was not a conceptual album. Keep in mind though, “Music Essay” was not allowed to be sold in record stores. It had to be bundled up, creatively I might add, to be sold in bookstores. So inclusion of that material on “In Heaven”, in my opinion was worth it.
And yes, we are going to agree about the comparison issue.
I just love the way the marketing team from CJeS gets around all the BS from the industry. Makes one wonder, what are those folks scared of? Hmmm?
@butterfliesarefree2
No I totally get why they did In Heaven the way they did. I mean what artist wouldn’t want their music to be put into album form, it would have been a shame for the great songs of their music essay to never make it into an album. But I do wholeheartedly believe that perhaps the new songs should have been more in line with the strong theme of the music essay songs. I’m really looking forward to them putting out a new album since CJeS has found workarounds for some of the restrictions they are facing, I think it’s going to be a stunner!
The more I look at ( wasting my time checking out k-pop) the k-pop/k-ent industry, the more I think it should be demolished and rebuilt again. Some would say that should apply to other countries ent. industries, and that may be so, but we are involved with k-industry, at least on this site. Allegedly for publicity stunts ent agencies would not stop at anything. I say allegedly because one hopes that these conniving snakes ( ent. agencies owners, stakeholders, managers, etc) have at least one ounces of decency left in them–my hope may be in vain.
Ent industry is a profit business, and rightfully so, it should seek to maximize profit with the lowest cost, BUT, if monetary costs seem to be low, the human costs in this industry are allegedly and probably undoubtedly very high. The way it is this industry will not be reformed in the near future, especially when the government is deeply involved in supporting and exporting it to the world.
I feel that we have been addressed this issues so many times, that I am repetitive to an obnoxious level, but reading about the fact that allegedly an female idol was allegedly forced to have a nip-slip for publicity is so disgusting. I will stop here because as I said I feel like I keep beating on an already dead horse.
@daebaksama
I haven’t read the account you are referring to, but may I interject one thought here.
“Ent industry is a profit business, and rightfully so, it should seek to maximize profit with the lowest cost”
Yes, the entertainment industry worldwide is a for profit business. Money is the name of the game. Every business entity is all about money. Look at Apple. They don’t want to pay their fair share in taxes, so most of their money is off-shore. Goodness knows, I’m not the most patriotic soul in the world, but this smacks to me of being about as unpatriotic as one can be.
Having said all that…when the BEAN COUNTERS got control of the entertainment and sports industries…all thoughts of the product outcome became focused on how to make the most profit, screw the artistry or athletic skills. There was a time when entertainment companies – music, tv, film, and the sports world relied on their product to make the money. Now it’s about marketing. Ewww.
Meaning, they used to let the talent speak for itself. Then all of a sudden, that was not enough. Just about every music product needed to turn out one hit, and then onto the next one. There was a time when albums contained so many hits. At least they were worth the money you paid for them. Not the case any more.
Sports began the era of ‘buying’ players and started this entirely insane culture of humongous salaries of overpaid spoiled brats. Not to mention the dilution of all sports. It’s no longer loving the sport for sport’s sake, but when can I renegotiate my contract.
With as much fault as I find in the SK entertainment industry, I don’t know if they can be singled out on this issue. There is hardly a face in Hollywood that is in it’s original shape before it got there. What is unfortunate is the fact that artists no matter where they are, don’t feel they can muster up the courage to say, NO.
Looks are fleeting. Character is no longer worth much. I personally prefer a face that speaks to me, and says this person has lived an interesting life. I don’t say one can’t improve your looks if that is your goal. But to change them because someone else feels you need to look a certain way, or having certain features, well that’s crossing the line. But this is what cultures have become, slaves to appearances.
But as long as the buying public goes along with this, it will remain the status quo. I don’t think you can count on morals or ethics from profit making entities. The consumers are the ones who have to show they are the ones in control. It is after all, their money these companies want in their pockets. People have to stop being led around like they are sheep.
One last note…it’s not obnoxious to care and want to make a difference. Hopefully, one day thoughts like this will catch fire somewhere and make that difference. You never know when or where that impact will take place.
I’m remnded of the vision of Princess Diana walking through mine fields to make a point, when she didn’t have to. But simply because she cared.
I have to apologize. I totally did not get the ‘nip-slip’ thing (thinking nip ‘n tuck). Just now read the story about T-ara’s situation. Although, I still feel some of what I said was relevant.
If my memory serves correctly, this CEO is the same industry dude spokesperson who said idols were as disposable as cellphones. I think the word p***k is too kind.
I have read your reply a few days ago, and I wanted to write smth back, but I didn’t find anythings smart at that time because you covered it all. I still didn’t find anything yet
so I am just acknowledging your comments. You rock really hard.
CCM -> cash and controversy media. the moment he spoke up, the moment i expect troll commentary. how he handled the whole controversies just make everything worse. a whitewash statement is what i expect to be coming from this whole mess. apparently, CCM isn’t just another company.
The problem is that he is going to escape unfazed and with money while the girls are suffering as they are disposable to him. The pig. Even if it proves he is the most innocent man on earth, I still want him out of the industry. I may be mean and judgemental, but I am sick of all these pigs exploiting the dreams all of these young women and men.
@daebaksama
http://view.koreaherald.com/kh/view.php?ud=20120731001374&cpv=0
Unfortunately, the Kara situation is only going to get worse. This link appeared in the comment section in an article on SB about the issues. It’s also the topic du jour on AKP as well.
The Korea Herald article is interesting for the fact that it brings up the issue of how much mismanagement took place in this situation. Regardless of what is true or untrue, and there seem to be a number of issues here. It seems as if this has the potential to be a huge blackeye story. The CEO of the company is opening himself up to be seen as a major screw up.
The article is quite long, so I chose to only provide the link. But considering the comment about how the competition factor causes discord amongst idol groups, this really highlights what a dicey situation exists in kpop. When one management company, Cube Ent. says it has to hire psychology experts to help out, you know something is rotten in Denmark.
There simply is no end to the amazement factor in kpop. I wonder when it will dawn on the entertainment industry in SK, they have way too many companies for the amount of products put out, and consumers available. I don’t see it getting better before it gets worse.
BIG CORRECTION — T- ara, not Kara.
Yup, I wouldn’t be surprised if the company itself is “grooming” certain members how to stand out ( based on their potential) because they know that as a group ( competing with so many other groups) may not be successful, but if at least one member becomes a “cash cow” while the others are for decor, the company income is assured. The trend is to debut groups, not solo artists ,so even if they have a stronger kid in their trainers, they know there is more money coming in if they debut an idol groups than a solo. I am not sure if I am making sense, or I am starting to be delusional here.
Oh, I get what you’re saying.
SK entertainment companies do appear to be wedded to the concept of quantity vs quality. And I guess since this is the model they cannot shake, they are going with it for as long as they can. I suppose to them it makes sense to spend money on a group, as opposed to a solo artist and somehow, they will recoup their money.
But can this model really stand the test of time? How much longer are they going to be able to push this model around with continued success? I still say at some point the saturation level will begin to take a toll. If they have to begin thrusting these artists out into the dramas, variety shows, product endorsements to keep the money flowing in, where is it written this will continue to be a huge success?
And if there is any foundation to the Japanese welcome mat being pulled back, well……….
Yes, there is China, and goodness knows the population is big enough to milk. But what kind of cultural issues will they run into there, when again, there is no reciprocity? What in the world does SME do with the young female Chinese singer they have on their roster? I apologize for not having her name to include. I’ve seen a couple of her videos, and yes she is talented just like the members of The Grace. To be honest, I wouldn’t know the other two Chinese (not Hangeng) members of SuJu if I tripped over them. OK, they do have EXO-M, so? They pick and choose who they feature?
Not all these folks will have the talent to shine in these areas. And if the discussion is now centering on internal competition, Whoa Nellie! This is almost like waiting for the trainwreck to be on time.
@BAFfie
“I suppose to them it makes sense to spend money on a group, as opposed to a solo artist and somehow, they will recoup their money.”
Especially if, like SM, they don’t actually have to PAY their acts more than a pittance, twice a year.
When you’re systematically cheating your young talent, the sky’s the limit, baby!!
wow, your explanations are very interesting! I really like reading your posts because you provide insights on what’s happening in SK.. thank you so much, BAFF!!
Hi! I’ve been a long term lurker on this site, and I finally decided to comment after working up the courage. Anyways, I’ve been thinking about Junsu’s new English single. To me, the timing is strange because it’s right before the release of JYJ’s new album (English or Korean). Do you think JYJ and Cjes may be using this single as an opportunity to test out the waters of the American music industry? I know they said in an interview that they did not want to enter the American music industry, but it’s fishy to me.
Although it is nice of Junsu to release a new song and I appreciate it, I don’t think it would have matter to international fans if he did create a new English song. I mean we enjoy listening to him sing in Korean.
Another thing is hiring Marc Klasfeld. It must be extremely expensive to hire him to direct this music video. Like the case with Junsu singing in Korean, I don’t think fans would have minded if the director of Tarantallegra directed this music video.
I would like to know everyone’s thoughts on this. Maybe I’m overthinking things? Anyways, I hope I to enjoy my time here on JYJ3.net!
@majolie
I’m not sure why you’ll use the word ‘fishy’ because that has a negative connotation, like there’s something suspicious about the whole thing. My take is that the English single is simply a way of giving back to international fans who have shown so much love and support for Junsu/JYJ, and I know many i-fans will appreciate listening to Junsu sing in a language they can understand. As for engaging the American producer for the MV, I think it’s good that the guys are collaborating with professionals outside their usual working partners. Just like how Junsu used the US dancers instead of the usual Korean dancers for his Seoul concerts. If Junsu is to break away from the familiar and the usual tried-and-tested options, he will need to look forward and embrace new ideas and ways of doing things.
I didn’t really mean anything negative with the usage of the word fishy. It was the only word I could think of while I was typing my post. lol. I totally understand that the English single is a way to give back, but I just found the timing of the English single to be intriguing. Like I said before, maybe it’s just my wishful thinking, but I would really like for JYJ to attempt entering the American market. I was so disappointed when they didn’t make a music video for Empty because I really feel JYJ actually has a chance of becoming a hit in America. I am not Korean or even Asian, but I (and even my family) enjoy JYJ’s music. I really think that the American market could use well-rounded artists like them.
I just wish they (JYJ) had more confidence in their abilities, and that’s why I partially thought that Junsu’s single could be a test for the American market since both Jaejoong and Yoochun believe Junsu to the be the strongest performer in the group. I’m really hoping JYJ continues to become more international since they are having such a hard time in the Korean and Japanese music market. JYJ! Fighting!
If they’re using it as a guinea pig/to test the water… that’s actually a very good marketing strategy… using the best of the best to launch a project is also one of the requirements for a higher success. Engaging with different group is also a good thing, that will increase their network. Aside from fans who listens to their music, they also need sponsors. How can they do that, by getting to know people.
If Junsu’s english single is their attempt in entering international market, I hope they will succeed.
@masi
Nothing beats good “buzz” — good word-of-mouth about a great new artist that one of the heavyweights in the biz here has just worked with. The members of JYJ have a knack for really and truly impressing the people they work with. Their talent and professionalism, their lack of attitude and ego, their willingness to work as hard as anyone on the session… it makes a difference when that kind of buzz gets to be what everyone who works with them says about them.
i dont really get it. havent jyj tried the water before with The Beginning and their world tour? Ayy Girl mv, and an album with top names like JaeChong and Rodney Jerkins?
@2017questa
“i dont really get it. havent jyj tried the water before with The Beginning and their world tour? Ayy Girl mv, and an album with top names like JaeChong and Rodney Jerkins?”
Yes, certainly they have. And from all reports people came away with nothing but good things to say about them, then as with Junsu now. Junsu is working with a new group of people, people whose work he personally responds to; maybe they weren’t considered last time, who knows?
And by the way, it did my heart good to hear you refer to Jae Chong as a “top name” – I really agree with you and think his work is the best of the best. On my personal Wishlist for who JYJ might work with in the future his name is right up there at the top.
Well to put it simply: it’s his damn money, and he can do whatever he wants with it. Also, I don’t think he and JYJ worked their butts off not to be able to do the music and engage in the projects that they want to. I love the idea that they think of their fans when they create their music, and there are many genres of music that I would like each of them and as a group to pursue, BUT, more than anything, I want them to go out and do whatever their creative minds want to pursue. Not all the projects may be a commercial success, but I hope that will be their personal success, something that they can think: “We did it! We had the courage to birth this idea no matter how strange it may seem to the outside world.” I want them to feel free to express themselves, I am greedy to see how their grow through their own abilities and interests, not to what fans dictate them to. Seriously, can they freaking be their awesome self, without everyone busting their chops every damn step they take?
I am not sure if you’re responding to my earlier post, but I know that it’s Junsu’s choice to participate in any activity he desires. That’s is probably one of the major reasons why JYJ decided to leave SM. My post earlier was just pure speculation. I mean I understand that not every project will be a success, but I am pretty sure that the JYJ members would like for their every project to be successful. I will support their every step, choice in the future. Personally I feel learning English and trying to entering new markets is essential to their growth as artists. I am not trying to dictate their every move. As I state before I was just speculating what MAY be a reason for the release of this new English single.
I was responding to you. Don’t worry too much about it. Ok?
@majolie1992
Hi, welcome to JYJ3. I’m glad you decided to post.
I don’t think there ~will~ be a JYJ album anytime soon. I think that’s why Junsu has taken this time to explore his creative ideas as a solo. Quite frankly, I for one just have no idea what is going on with the group right now. Junsu is busy proving that as a solo artist he is an explosive creative force to be reckoned with and his time has come. I think he’s right.
Keep in mind, the members of JYJ can’t work with very many of the better video producers in SK – it would mean that they could never again work with any SM artist. For me, the fact that Junsu went to one of the top video producers here in the U.S. was a really good sign that Junsu is taking himself seriously as an artist and wants only the best of everything. And don’t worry about his finances. he is a very very rich young man indeed and can well afford this kind of investment in himself. I predict it will end up being a very smart move. English is now widely held to be the international language, so by releasing an English language single, this is Junsu’s gift to his international fans — not just his American fans. The U.S. market is and always will be a tough nut to crack for an Asian artist. Certainly he can try to make inroads into it. Whether he can really ever break here widely is still to be seen. When U.S. record companies would attempt to break a new artist here it ran roughly a million dollars or more to even begin. Junsu is attached to no major label. So it will be tough.
Hi!
well me to love Junsu singing in korean more than english but maybe he want to experiment with diferent professionals remember experience makes the master
Ha, for me, i don’t mind if Junsu sings in any language at all, bcause when he sings, language is of no matter. He could’ve sing in his bambayan language and still made the song sounds beautiful. Right now, I’m just feeling blessed to be able to hear more from him xD be it soft ballads like 이슬을 머금은 나무, Too Love, Lullaby… or sexy-erotic songs like My Page, Intoxication, Xiahtic.. or totally mind-blowing songs like Tarantallegra.
now that you’ve mentioned him singing in his bambayan language…….. JUNSU-YA, PLEASE RELEASE A SONG IN BAMBAYAN!! LOL
@2017questa
I agree with you. I don’t understand much Korean. But the heart hears what Junsu sings and responds resoundingly. I think he’s been acknowledged as the best speaker of English in JYJ. (I know Yuchun still seems the nominal winner in that department, but honestly, I don’t think he ever spoke English well when he lived in the US and even he has said he has “forgotten most of what he has learned.”)
Here’s the bottom line: Junsu WANTS this. He WANTS a career as a singer, he wants a global audience. That’s ALL he wants right now. To my way of thinking, here’s what’s happening with the rest of the guys (and please feel free to disagree if you want to)
Jaejoong’s is a diffuse creative mind. He wants this, he wants that, on any given day. Just now, he has fallen madly in love with acting. This is what motivates him and makes him excited. Also he has realized that he can be good at it and that he can gain a MASSIVE international audience by doing it. Also, the longevity of an actor is unlimited. There is no “sell-by” date like there is as an SK idol singer. I know as the leader of JYJ he is responsible for the health and well-being of the group’s activities but the man is in the throes of a grand passion right now!! And Yuchun, I bet, is backing him 100% in this.
Because Yuchun, in case there’s anybody who hasn’t noticed it yet, appears to be in the process of a full transition into being an Asian superstar actor. His star is ascending into the heavens so fast as to make one breathless, watching it go. On the other side of the coin, he knows more than any of us here, that his voice has deteriorated as a singer. He knows that the live shows are bordering on being more than he can handle because of his asthma. As much as he does NOT want to let Jae and Su down, how much longer can he go, realistically??
To continue to have a shot as a singer, he would have to drop everything he is doing as an actor and rededicate himself to vocal training and long hours in the studio, composing. Will he do this? Honestly, I don’t know. Compared to his insane popularity as an actor, can he even begin to touch that as a singer?? I guess we will see, in the coming months.
amen to that..
@majolie1992
Welcome out of the land of lurking into the world of commenting, discussion, and all around fun. I always say, the more the merrier.
In your last sentence you said maybe you were overthinking things. IMHO, I think maybe you are. Afterall. people can change their minds. Happens all the time. Nothing sinister about that at all.
As far as how much it is costing to work with these new connections, I don’t feel that is the issue. To me this issue is making use of one’s opportunities. If you are the creative type and I don’t think there is anyone on this board who will disagree. All the guys of JYJ are some of the most creative beings in the world. They hunger to create, no matter what the media. This is why they are flourishing the way they are.
I don’t know what interview you read where they said they did not want to enter the American market. I got the impression their comment was the Western market was not their main focus. Two different things here. Any artist worth his salt and who wants to make it, wants to try the Western market. This is where the money is. Not to mention, the Western markets will allow you the chance to stretch yourself.
What is wrong with making it in America? Frankly, if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. Learning English is not a bad thing because right now English is the universal language of the business world. It makes sense to learn it. Of course those who are fans of JYJ accept them singing in their native tongue and Japanese.
But if you want to grow your market, you have to go where those markets are. It just makes good business. Besides, if you want to make money, you have to spend it. Why not spend it on quality. It’s that old adage, you get what you pay for.
There is no earthly reason JYJ and CJeS should not make a stab at the American market. Time is on their side. Just in case it still sounds ‘fishy’ to you or whatever word you want to use to describe suspicious. Check this out. CJeS has an office in Los Angeles, on Wilshire Blvd., just like all the other SK entertainment companies. To me this says, they simply want to stay as competitive as the next guy. Nothing wrong with that.
@butterfiliesarefree2
I think maybe you must have misunderstand my post. I totally want JYJ to enter the American market because at the moment their music careers are not flourishing as much as they should have in both Korea and Japan. If they were to make it in the American market, it would totally make SM and all the broadcasting stations bad because once you become popular in America, the press wants to learn everything about you. Plus we, Americans, love the story of underdogs and in JYJ’s case they are definitely the underdogs.
I remember some interview they did in South America earlier this year saying that they did not want to enter the American market. I’ll have to go look for it.
For some reason, I think the release of JYJ’s new album (whether it will be before the end of 2012 or the beginning of 2013), will mark a transition in their careers. I’m really excited!
Hi There.
Regarding the quote, it’s possible who ever did the translation may have missed it a bit. Who knows. I still feel, there is no way CJeS is going to spend the money to have a satellite office in the States and not make use of it. I don’t see them as being wasteful like that.
It’s just that making connections in the States, and not wanting to deal in the market seems a bit contradictory. But as I said, they have time on their side. There really is no rush. Trust me. You’re right, JYJ’s story will make underdog look like an understatement.
Keep in mind, as you mentioned timing. Making their foray into the States and getting press will work a lot better when they no longer have the constraint of the lawsuit. As long as the lawsuit is an issue, they really cannot give a great deal of attention to their plight in the press, especially the foreign press. So, the push may actually be based on when this hurdle is past them. For now, small easy steps getting them past the front door. I have no doubts about JYJ’s ability to make it here, afterall, they have the chops and charisma for it.
I remember that interview as well and after giving it some thought, I concluded it could be possible that the translation error could have been that they did not intend to enter the US market with their previous work (the beginning), not necessarily that they intend to never enter the market. Tense can be a bit tricky in hangul.
And some people may say why make an English album if that wasn’t their intention, but really English is understand on a greater scale internationally than Hangul and Japanese are so I can see that they were posdibly testing out their global market.
I’m torn about them really entering the American market, they have a very small niche opportunity to work with and it’s very hit or miss. Every once in awhile, the general US public will get behind an Asian entertainer but it doesn’t last and I think it may partly be trying to conform to what’s popular/accepted in the US.
Popularity and relevancy is also maintained in a different manner there. While Korea has an abundance of teenage stalkers, the US has turned rabid fan behavior into a business in the form of paparazzi and tabloids. JYJ being in the US once a year, if that, for tours, would not be able to sustain the publics’ need to know every detail of the day to day of their lives.
I also don’t think CJeS has the manpower or reach to really debut them well into the American market. I think if they were to really make an effort on this, they would need to sign to an indigenous management company in the US. Like how Avex handled their Japanese activities, preferably without the whole knife to the back that Avex did.
Anyway, I’m glad you stepped out of lurker mode! Welcome to your first ODP thread and don’t get scared off if we sometimes respond strongly. It just means you’ve raised a topic that invokes strong feelings, good or bad, doesn’t really matter cause it’s all just opinion for the sake of intelligent and diverse discourse!
@mkverse
I totally agree. I hope if JYJ decides to make a debut in the American market that they stick around for a while. Before JYJ (if they decide to) makes a debut in America, I hope they take it seriously. That means having a good grasp on English, knowing which niche that want to appeal to, and having good connections in America. I agree that CJeS doesn’t have the manpower to really debut them here, and because of this JYJ will have to rely on their talent and their marketability to catch the attention of a management company and a record label. So at this point, learning English is a MUST!
I feel JYJ also has the connections. I know many JYJ fans didn’t like Kanye West’s contribution to JYJ’s album, (I thought it sounded unfinished) but Kanye West may help ease the transition into the American market. Although he (Kanye) has said and done many unfavorable things, he will not work with any artist unless he thinks they are talented. I think Kanye said he would work with JYJ again.
Hopefully, JYJ has learned or is learning about the American market before they make a serious debut.
And thanks for the welcome! I hope I have a lot of fun here on JYJ3.net!
I’m keeping my fingers crossed that JYJ (especially Junsu) breaks big into the American market. He is such a talented entertainer and deserves a shot. The only other Asian group that I can think over here that has had some sucess is Far East Movement. I would love to see more Asian groups break into the music and movie biz–I think they are underrepresented. The beauty of this site is that I am picking up a lot about the Korean music business and activites of JYJ and learning a little bit about South Korea, which is great.
@Shirley USA
And certainly let’s not forget Aziatix. Now, these guys have it all goin’ on. They are all Korean-American. They all speak perfect, unaccented English. Their songs are beyond GREAT. Their producer, Jae Chong, is beyond GREAT, with an enviable track record of big hit records.
They have not been able to break in the U.S. This has worried me greatly, I don’t mind telling you. To me, it means there is a built in prejudice here that “Asians cannot rock.” Lord knows, I know this is NOT true. Since I have spent the greater portion of my life in the music business here, I know full well that talent is NEVER defined by where one is from. But the reality does give me pause and it makes me realize that Junsu will have a difficult climb onto the U.S. charts. Needless to say, I am backing him all the way.
Me too, Lilibaiyu. With his talent and charisma,Junsu should definitely rate on the U.S. charts. I think his “Tarantallegra” is a flipping masterpiece. Junsu wrote and arranged that whole song? (By the way, thanks for turning me on to Aziatix, whom I was not aware of. I will check them out on YouTube.)
@ Shirley @ lilibaiyu
In a market dominated by solo acts, I think Junsu as a solo–on paper–has the talent to succeed here. He is one of the best singer/dancer in Kpop and his talents and stage presence are comparable to the likes of Beyonce and Usher. Unfortunately, I agree that there is a built-in bias against native Asian-American entertainers here and while some actresses such as Lucy Liu and Sandra Oh along with Far East Movement have had some success, we really don’t have bona fide Asian-American stars. In addition to this obstacle, our Junsu’s English is passable at best but still not good enough. In order to do well in the charts, he needs to get heavy radio play, a feat difficult to achieve for new artists without heavy promotional works by their labels or major call-in requests by fans. So to create any sort of mainstream buzz, his best bet is to score a real collab(not a faux one like Ayy Girl) with a big name such as Jay Z or Pitbull.
Basically, Junsu has to start from scratch and I don’t know if he is willing to put in the work at this stage in his career, especially with military duty coming up soon. In light of BoA, Seven and Wonder Girls’ lackluster success here, I have reservations regarding talks in favor of Junsu attempting to enter the American market. I think he and JYJ are better off just promoting their English songs to reach a wider audience outside of the Kpop niche market. I love that our boys are willing to stretch themselves though and despite my reservations, I will off course support our boys if they want to promote more here. After Tarantellegra, I have high hopes for Junsu’s upcoming video.
Sf Lily,
I agree with everything you say. There is some sort of bias in the U.S. when it come to foreign acts, no matter how talented they are. Junsu needs to know English (very well) and have an American p.r. agency promote him in the states. One Asian personality who has broken the mode in the U. S. is Chinese actor Jackie Chan. Also, as you mentioned, Lucy Liu and Sandra Oh, who is amazing. No matter what happens in the states for Junsu, he is breaking barriers around the world, and I am so proud of what he has accomplished. I just hope America pays attention and realizes what an awesome artist Junsu is. And if they don’t, I’ll still remain a Junsu fan, because I know the guy is talented and it is exciting see him grow artistically month by month.
@SFLily
Good post. I agree with you on most all the points you made, although I think if you talked to Sandra Oh and Lucy Liu, they would say that finding work in the US as an Asian actress has been very frustrating and difficult. There is a bias and no doubt about that. I wrote a post very similar to yours a while back as a matter of fact where I too questioned whether JYJ would really want to start at the very bottom again here in the US. It seems unlikely to me, somehow. They are Asian superstars and now all sorts of other places around the world are finding out about them too. The US is not all that important to them, really in terms of income, it would only be important if THEY set their sights on it and wanted it more than anything.
@SFLily
I totally agree with you. If Junsu, Jaejoong and Yoochun want to get in US market they have to spend more time to learn English, improve their pronunciation and sing clearly and correctly.
When I listen and see Junsu perform in Tarantellegra, I think he can try his best to get in US market if he can promoting hie English songs to reach a wider audience.
In my opinion, Junsu is perfect for R&B style music. But in the history of music, USA is the first and king of that kind of music. Junsu have a talent, I really don’t know he can get in US market or not because beside the talent, he need to improve his English
Remember he not only sing, he has dance while he sing too, that not easy when he not sing well in English and audience will be upset if they can’t really hear what they sing (Seven of YGE a lesson, I love his perform but honestly sometime I couldn’t get what’s he sang when he release his Album in USA.)
I still support you JYJ, fighting and keep going.
Do whatever you want to do even you not really success in US market I still support you Junsu. Your voice is the best.
Got my ticket for NY concert!! It’s in one month but i’m so excited already :33
People from outside NY where are you all staying? I know last time some fans shared hotels and I would like to discuss accomodation.
I’m not staying at a hotel, but there were a few people discussing places to stay on the original posting for the ticket info. Someone mentioned using hotels outside of NYC, like near the airport in NJ. People were giving out their Twitter and Facebook ids. Check it out.
@butterfliesarefree2
yes manhattan hotels are so pricey….
ok thanks, will check it out.
Someone who has decided not to go has mentioned collecting information on hostels inside the city. You might want to look for her posting. She’s willing to share what she has.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!
Ticket receipt in hand, now waiting for my e-ticket to show up in my email to print! Got the section I wanted even if I didn’t get the first row. Ok, I’m not quibbling.
It looks as if the seat is smack in the middle of the section and facing the stage directly. YES!
Xia Junsu my young brother, this ahjumma noona will be there with bells on her toes cheering you on! Keep working that magnificent voice of yours.
If anyone else is going, here is my Twitter id @baby_skeet. Maybe we can hook up before and grab a bite. I’m coming in via train – Penn Station.
That is if you don’t mind being seen with a senior ahjumma.
@butterfliesarefree2
so which section did you get? were there a lot of rows sold before you manage to grab a ticket?
I’m in section 103, lower balcony, which faces the stage directly. This was the one I wanted. I’m in row F which is in the middle of the section, last of the $150 seats. So, I’m guessing those in front were simply going fast. I was logged on ready to go at 10 AM, and so were thousands of others. I wouldn’t doubt it being sold out!
But it’s all good. An assigned seat, not on the floor facing down to see the ENTIRE stage. I’m good to go!
Where are you seated?
yeah VIP is usually intense to get. I’m on the floor which i wanted. But i’m still not sure if i am going to queue from 7am like the showcase……
On, the floor. Bless you my child. As long as that’s what you want. Go for it!
I’m just hoping they have two lines…one for the lower floor and one for those with balcony seats. This certainly can’t be asking for too much.
@BAF sis congratulation !!!!
Thank you my dear one. All I want is to see Junsu and hear Junsu. All is right.
Mummy-hen, I expect to see fancam of you dancing your butt off!!
Truthfully, I don’t think me dancing my butt off is going to impress anyone enough to catch it on video. But I do intend to enjoy myself.
Hahaha!!!
Could someone tell me what they think are the top two CD’s produced by JYJ? I’ve only heard their music on YouTube and their music must be ordered online here in the states, considered an import. I can’t go to Junsu’s concert here in Los Angeles, (darn) but at least I can order their music. Next best thing!
@Shirley, USA
I think they’re a Must Own, but then I could be accused of being a little prejudiced. lol Xia’s new CD is in that category too, btw. And remember, you can get them on U.S. iTunes now and then just burn your own CDs. True, no groovy artwork, but it’s a cost effective way to own them.
@lilibaiyu
Thanks!
Hi Shirley, I’m in US too and I bought their In Heaven CD online.. the packaging was SUPERB!!!!! unlike US artists’….
it came with a photobook too so I was very happy that I purchased it
I think it’s really worth it, I only listened to their more famous songs before, but now I think all of their songs are very meaningful and not mainstreamed (unlike other K-Ppop songs nowadays)
Thanks, Petdino! I think I read somewhere that their Other Voices? cd was good. I’ll have to do some digging.
You can order from eBay or Kpop sites like Kpopmart, Kpop Market etc.
yeah, I’ve purchased some from DVDHeaven and Yesasia.com
@Shirley, USA
I’ve used YesAsia.com. They are very good and the package always arrives well packed. I’d recommend them. I’m in the US too.
after all the hassle of waiting without sleep (worked night) I finally got my ticket in LA… VIP… LET’s ROCK!!!
Cogratulations! Sleep deprivation is not always recommended, but then, we do what we must do.
Cogratulations! i want to know the europa citys
I have two questions that I hope you guys here at JYJ3 can answer.
1) The lawsuit that JYJ is pursuing against SM is to determine if they must pay a contract termination fee (if their contract with SM is valid) or not?
2) Does SM hold the copyright of the name Dong Bang Shin Ki? I was just wondering about this because many OT5ers say that the reason HoMin stayed in SM was to protect the name DBSK.
question number one, as much as i know, there are two reason why JYJ filled a lawsuit against SME
1) To nullified their exclusive contract, which is according to JYJ, they felt that the contract is unfair. I believe there are a lot of reasons behind this “unfairness” felt by JYJ. Since in their exclusive contract there are clauses regarding penalties (huge amount of money) that should be paid by the DBSK member to SME if they were to breach the contract, so basically JYJ filled a suit to the legal court to determine the validity of their contract. If the court’s verdict stated that the contract is unfair and invalid, so DBSK member don’t have to pay any ridiculous amount of money that SME claimed as the loss compensation.
2) To seek for justice based on JYJ’s right that wasn’t paid properly by SME during their activities, especially from DBSK’s activities in Japan. So, if the court decides in JYJ’s favor, it’s SME that have to pay a quite sum of money to JYJ.
number two, I don’t think SME holds the DBSK’s name copyright yet. I remember reading somewhere that in order to claimed the respective band’s name copyright must be based on all the members agreement, which is i’m sure JYJ haven’t said yes to it. I don’t know if this was true or not but I think SME has only be able to claimed the copyright of DBSK’s Chinese character, which is 東方神起
About Homin stayed in SME to protect the name, I don’t know the meaning about that. In my honest opinion, I think all of them can get out from SME with still holding the band’s name. No need to protect anything, because they carried the name by themselves. If only they all did get out from SME, the only one thing that they have to let go I think is their precious discography…
i hope this helps, and guys please correct me if i’m wrong.
I think that sounds about right.
Maybe about the copyright: SM Japan registered Tohoshinki in Japan this January. SM also registered many different variations of DBSK and TVXQ names in Korea, but the original one Dong Bang Shin Ki (DBSK) was not accepted and still belongs to all 5 members. So you can see that SM mostly uses TVXQ! (with exclamation) or THSK for the remaining duo.
@ ai uta, @ ruber
Thank you! Although I’ve been a fan for two years, the court case was slightly confusing.
@majolie1992
Call me cynical but in answer to your 2nd question, the whole “protecting the DBSK name” is a load of BS, created to make Homin look noble for staying with SM.
LOL @Sapphire Sis.. just come back and see you comment ….can’t hold ^__________^ …LOL HI sis …..HUgssss!
@anva
HI!!!! *hugs you tight* ^_____________^
Hello anva1. Good to see you!
i think it won’t be this year. jaejoong’s jackal filming hasn’t wrapped up, and after that he’ll do a promotion for jackal and maybe also for dr. jin overseas promotion. junsu has a concerts tour and yoochun also has a fanmeetings tour; both are scheduled for months ahead.
for me, i don’t expect them to churn out albums every other year. they aren’t in a big company and they’re dedicated to their music, thus they won’t just give us craps without much thought. producing album isn’t a side job, so if they want to release an album, they need to focus on that. i’d rather wait a year or so and get one good album.
this is probably off topic, but come on, it’s barely one year of individual activities. later on we’ll have two years of military service — and if they don’t enlist together, we’ll embark years of individual activities (maybe like shinhwa). therefore, let’s be patient, and be more considerate to the members and within each other of us too.
it’s a reply to @ruber
To produce a good album is not an easy job, yes, but we could see that Junsu managed to have quite a good album with just cca 3 months of work. JYJ as a group could manage it too, I believe. or am I too greedy now? I keep imagining their next concert tour, with finally enough material to last for 3 hours (like their Dome concerts). I would love to experience it. Sigh.
Junsu been writing his music for years.. and he said himself, that he has over 100 songs that he has composed.. and which some he chose for the album. its not a minute’s song. or else the Tarantallegra’s album wouldn’t be as great as it is. ..well, if i’m wrong, i think we can just throw up our hands cuz he might just be the music genius way above my expectations. sometimes i wonder if i underestimate him or he just always blows my expectations. words of love. but thats why i love him.
JYJ – Daegu performance; footage not shown by KBS, but carried by other countries
what a shame sbs , to hide this striking voices resounding the huge dome turning the venue like a concert . This group should have had introduced to the world , such artists that could represent your country – talented , with strong live vocals not just lip sync . these men are the true examples of a great singer and yet.. you ostracized them .
Featuring idols (instead) with only beautiful faces but were lip syncing and could not sing live and yet you brand them as pride of sk ,lowers your morale , did you know that?
kbs i mean.. or whatever press that featured this event .. such dumb media.
Wow….
Thanks for sharing
CONGRATULATIONS TO GABBY DOUGLAS!!!
First woman to win all around and team gold medals for gymnastics in the Olympics. Proud of you my young sister! Well deserved!
@BAF
Oh My Gosh! YES! BRAVO! BRAVO! BRAVO! Beyond Proud! TALK ABOUT >>> STAND AND DELIVER!
SHE IS INCREDIBLE! Amazing Athlete! Amazing Young Woman!
Yeah CONGRATS TO GABBY!!! Very Proud of You!!!