*Arirang* is the most-beloved Korean folk song. It’s believed to be first sang over 600 years ago, and passed down from generation to generation. No one knows the exact meaning of Arirang but it embodies the spirit of the people of Korea for centuries. Arirang represents the suffering and tribulation (Arirang 'Hill') overcome as people and the nation. If we’re together as one holding hands, we can make it over the hill. The original Arirang is considered an "unofficial national anthem". *Arirang Alone* is a modern adaptation (released in 1990) of the original song written in the hope of reunification of Koreas. It’s a song of hope and peace. It tells a fantasy of the Island of Dokdo floating in the East Sea all alone singing Arirang. If Dokdo sang Arirang, alone in the Eat Sea, would North and South reunite? Dokdo is islets centrally located between Mount Baekdu (in northern border of North Korea) and Mount Halla (in Jeju Island, South Korea). Let’s ride a boat together from Baekdu and Halla. When we dock our boats at Dokdo, we’ll witness a new dawn together. The songwriter’s parents had to leave two sons and a daughter in North Korea during the war. His father’s dying wish to him was “when Korea reunite, go find your older brothers and sister and tell them that their parents did not abandoned them”
Thanks your good reaction! 리액션 영상 많이봤는데 정말 최고의 리액션 영상입니다 음악듣기전에 어떤내용인지 가사 읊어보시는거 보고 정말 감동받았어요 그리고 끊는 타이밍 적당한때 끊으려 노력하시는 모습 좋았고, 다시 영상볼때 앞으로 조금 돌아가서 느낌 이어가시는것까지.. 정말 최고입니다 앞으로도 소향님 노래 많이 해주세요!
Her performances on "Everyone" and "Bridge Over Troubled Water" are beyond description. When a powerful instrument, gifted to such a wonderful person, can work miracles for the rest.
Thanks Josh! So this is your first experience with Sohyang! Btw I’ve viewed all your reactions to her and loved them all! Please react to ‘the only thing’. Its a quasi live music video but apparently she finished the recording in only 3 takes and so most of the music video is actually live. Thanks again!
Sohyang's the best. I love her. Listening to her sing is a cathartic experience, much more so than listening to any other singer I've ever come across. Her Masked Singer performances are profoundly emotional, which is amazing considering the fact that she's wearing a mask and singing in a language I don't understand. I really like the way you react, it's very respectful to the artists.
I love So Hyang. You might notice that her singing venues are on a smaller scale. Because So Hyang does not perform for commercial profit, she is not found among main stream international performers.
She is a textbook of a legendary vocal skills. It's just a tip of her masterpieces iceberg. Great reaction, and welcome to the Sohyang's world. Cheers^^
So Hyang is wonderful, any song you do of hers will blow your mind. My favorite being her version of Lean On me, which you will get the added benefit of seeing Michael Bolton react to her!
Welcome to the world of So Hyang, those who find this world, stay here. She's a globally undiscovered talent. She's very popular in Korea. I'd love to hear you react to her singing "You Raise Me Up" (make sure that you watch the Immortal Songs 2 version, not the one on the outdoor stage. Also, some of her most touching, heartfelt songs were sang on the Masked Singer. "Do You Know", "Breathe", and "Home" Enjoy! So Hyang is a game changer in the music industry.
Great reaction! I was waiting for this day lol. Like Dimash, definitely one of the best in the world. She stands out due to her background in gospel. Make sure to check out “Everyone”, You Raise Me Up”, “Lean On Me” , and Whitney’s cover of “I Have Nothing “ (blue dress).
Everyone is the one to listen next - not a simple folk song, very emotional, richer darker tone, much greater vocal range. She does her own arrangements. Thank you for your thoughtful reaction and analysis.
Thank you so much for reacting to Sohyang! :) I love that you read the lyrics first to understand the song. And yes she is really gifted. Please do more reaction to her! There are a lot of her amazing performances to be impressed again and again.
When an Artist makes you feel the song they are singing then it makes an Experience for both the artist as a listener, at that point be comes a Performance and Leaves you feeling good...
Thank you for this informed and objective reaction. Appreciate many of the comments you made. Arirang Alone is a folk song as you said and has morphed into the symbol for the peaceful reunification for the Korean people. While its original intent was what you described, became a true patriotic expression during the Japanese occupation. The lyrics with the geographical references connote special affinity and attachment for Koreans. Its original melody is relatively simple, as most folk songs, so that it's easy for people to pick up. Sohyang rearranged the dynamics of the song to inject drama and turbulence into its presentation, highlighting the pain and suffering of the Korean history, yet delivered the hope and wistful longing for the eventual reunion. Truly remarkable work in its composition. Sohyang is an impeccable technician with her singing, Each performance is meticulously prepared and diligently practiced for the result she looks to achieve. It's effectively manifested in each note and her fluent runs/riffs. Her singing is gifted with impressive power, control, projection, and most importantly purpose. Really appreciate your remark on singing with feeling. She is well known for her mixed voice, seamless transition, and unmistakable range. You introduced the tribute of vibrancy to Sohyang's voice. This is the first time I hear such a comment, and very much appropriate. Sohyang has many fabulous performances on the web to enjoy. Some of the early choices could be "Bridge Over Troubled Water", 2018 rendition of "You Raise Me Up", "Everyone" and "Lean On Me". Be advised to find these performances on Immortal Song 2 (IMS2), the same program where you saw Arirang Alone, since Sohyang performed these songs at several venues elsewhere. However, these videos on IMS2 can probably give you the best quality. Glad to see you enjoy Sohyang's Arirang Alone. Hope to see you again.
Thanks for your sincere approach to this song. No reaction video I watched had any time to read the lyric and try and understand it. To me, it shows your sincerity so I think it might be helpful for you to understand the song better if I add my personal (but analytically objective enough) interpretation of this “Arirang”. The following comment is the one I wrote yesterday. I’ll just copy and paste it 😝 Nobody really knows the origin of the word “Arirang”. Some scholars believe it’s just a combination of Koreans’ preferred vowel sounds while others argue it did have its meaning and trying to figure it out. Nonetheless, every single Korean would agree that we express very complicatedly mixed feelings when we sing “Arirang”. There’s a bit of sorrow as life doesn’t always go how we want it to be, a bit of joyful relief as life continues despite all the hardships, a bit of happiness as we do go through happy moments from time to time and finally the loneliness as we cannot fully express all these emotions being in a situation where expressing someone’s emotion is regarded as lack of self-control (there were super many unwritten “rules” in Chosun dynasty, which was the last kingdom of Korea, owing to an extreme application of Confucius philosophy). So they sang. Yes they sang “Arirang” to express all these emotions because they knew no one could accuse them of anything if they use the word that doesn’t really have any meaning. It is a silent scream against the harsh environment they were in. Though they didn’t give it up and accepted actively what they had to face. By singing “Arirang”, they are saying life is shit but worth going through which is clearly different from being sarcastic or hypocritical. I guess this is probably why a lot of people find two contradictory feelings when they listen to this music: positive feelings like happiness, hope and so on and negative feelings of deep agony, loss and so on. In this particular version of “Arirang”, the speaker tries to show his wish for reunification of North and South in an indirect way, using Dokdo as a tool that empathises him because the island knows what it is like to be alone. Well,, this is how I get the “Arirang” in my gut as a Korean. Hope this would help you to understand the song better 😉 P.s- the Arirang Hill is a conceptual space which could be a hardship we have to get over holding our hands together or a promising place where we can find what we have been longing for (in this song it is the reunification of South and North and all the divided family)
Thank you so much for this write up. I did step away and came back after discovering this unification symbolism and I recorded a little segment talking about it toward the end of my reaction. Thanks again sir. This is great info!
Of course she is good, she is brilliant, otherwise we would not have recommended it :)) As always well explained ... thanks Have a nice afternoon. Greetings from Germany.
So hyang one of my favorite female vocalists. Her performance of “ everyone” is beyond amazing. But I have a request that you react to her closest and best friend, “Park Ki Young”, I like Park Ki Young because they have about the same vocal range but Park Ki Young is a tad more versatile and can belt them with equal emotional impact and power in rock, pop, soul, jazz flamenco, and classical ( opera). A few of my favorites that are worthy of reacting to: ( either privately or publicly) TH-cam: “I dreamt I dwelt in Marble Halls” ( 5:02 duration. A rare hidden gem that she performs the way it was intended to be performed : as an opera in English. Anya’s Version is the standard but sung more as a ballad but Park Ki Young opera style takes you to church and beyond. “ Nella Fantasia “ ( 4:08 best version ever and I’ve watched and listened to all the world class vocalists perform this) “ Goodbye a word that’s too short” ( click 5:08 one she’s in the celestial realm and sustains the last note a long time. An Soul / R& B masterpiece. “wound” ( emotionally impactful 5:57 duration with the blue strobe lighting. Another amazing soulful performance ) “Hit hee Park Ki Young” (one of my all-time favorites 5:18 duration) Lonely Night( one of a series of “ Mask” performances that she won. Amazing vocal range and the ending is up in the stratosphere. “ So hyang” receives a lot more reactors and reactions than Park Ki Young” because of her ability to sing many popular American songs in English which she performs with emotional impact. But please don’t judge a vocalist by the number of requests you receive-altho your fans are usually right. But I’m a professional singer and my singing friends unanimously agree that both So Hyang and Park Ki Young are not only world class vocalists but equal in talent. What I’m trying to say is I believe Park Ki Young deserves far more reactions and I promise you and your subscribers who love So Hyang ( and I am among them) that you won’t be disappointed listening to a Park Ki Young song. They are both about the same age ( early 40s but look amazing for their age!) and the closest and best of friends. Please start your Park Ki Young Journey with 2 opera-like songs“ ( to get a feel for her more operatic style): Nella Fantasia” ( click first vid 4:08 duration) which I consider the best rendition I have ever heard of this song and I have heard all the world class vocalists perform it) You’ve just begun your journey. Staying with opera, please consider next an operetta masterpiece titled “I dreamt I Dwelt In Marble Halls Park” ( 5:02). One of the rare ones performed by her in English and Sung the way it was intended to be sung; in opera style and NOT as a ballad as Anya’s popular version was renditioned in ( hauntingly beautiful but a total departure from its roots which was taken from an 1836 Operetta titled Bohemian Rapture. Now that you know what a fabulous voice she has, you may want to publicly react to any of the following that showcases her ability to perform in a multitude of genres. ** * soul “Goodbye a word that’s too short” ( click 5:08 one she’s in the celestial realm and sustains the last note a long time. *Soul “wound” ( emotionally impactful 5:57 duration with the blue strobe lighting) *soul “Hit hee Park Ki Young” (one of my all-time favorites 5:18 duration) Soul/R& B “Lonely Night” ( one of a serious of “ Mask” performances that she won. Amazing vocal range and the ending is up in the stratosphere. *Flamenco“ “To You” ( awesome flamenco beat. If you love flamenco, you will love her performance!Click the 4:28 posted by KBS) ** Rock “ Spring Rain” ( rock /soul with an emotionally impactful and incredible raspy voice ending. 6:53 posted by KBS) All ParkKiyoung songs I recommend are live performances. Again, I love Sohyang but hope you give her closest friend a chance to showcase her world-class talent. All love in isolation from Miami Beach, Florida, Al
Thank you for posting this. So Hyang is exquisite and mesmerizing, but Park Ki Young is just as well. I only recently discovered Park Ki Young through her singing "Lucille," and I was blown away. I didn't realize they were friends, but what a power duo.
It's amazing how you are this detailed with a song reaction, I don't see this type of dedication often and is here to stay for more content. SoHyang have just one of the most amazing backstory as a singer and her journey of her singing evolution is something I am always interested in. She sang so many English songs even when it is her second language so I am sure you will enjoy those without the need for lyrics. I recommend Lean On Me, Bridge over Trouble, I have Nothing and You Raise me Up with one of the best arrangement I have seen where Micheal Bolton called her a virtuoso and David Foster was so impressed, he invited her to a concert of his as a guest singer. Her other Korean song performance such as Dream, Everyone and Breathe are so of the best and just the tip of an iceberg so I hope you enjoy your journey into discovering a talent that blew me away.
*Please react to So Hyang performing Lean On Me on this same show* One of her best performances is of Lean on Me, she can get pretty gospel and take it to church! and the best part is Michael Bolton is a guest audience! She is a master arranger too! And it is something new you will get to appreciate from her take on this song! can't wait.
If interested: "Everyone" - vimeo.com/249195615 “Where Are You” (no interview interruption during climax) - vimeo.com/254194327 "You Raise Me Up" - th-cam.com/video/te_L9ofhUt8/w-d-xo.html "Lean on me" - th-cam.com/video/GvsgCllcNPE/w-d-xo.html "Oh Holy Night"- th-cam.com/video/YwgF3Gylu-0/w-d-xo.html “The Power of Love” - th-cam.com/video/LrNkVRrK7_I/w-d-xo.html “I have Nothing" - th-cam.com/video/-G388dTAGOo/w-d-xo.html “In The Flower Garden” - th-cam.com/video/l8yfv2XyHjo/w-d-xo.html "Bridge Over Troubled Water" - th-cam.com/video/C6iHh4yBxCo/w-d-xo.html ("Hug Me” to "Mona Lisa," below, were performed with a mask on, on a show, called “King of Mask Singer,” on which the performers are supposed to perform anonymously, so that the audience will presumably choose a winner based purely on the performance. The last link among these is to a compilation video of all of So-Hyang’s solo performances on the show, in order of performance.) "Hug Me" - vimeo.com/217301888 "Home" - vimeo.com/222079856 "Dear Love" - vimeo.com/212597227 "Do You Know" - vimeo.com/214374144 "Breathe" - vimeo.com/220191647 "Mona Lisa" - vimeo.com/297885714 So-Hyang solo compilation on “King of Mask Singer” - th-cam.com/video/WAiZFZrpeBs/w-d-xo.html For more, the following is a site with links to a plethora of live performances, compiled by some truly dedicated fan(s): sohyang-live.com/live
How many times did you say "wow" in this video? I enjoyed the authentic and unfeigned reaction and how you were taking it all in. Your point about her rhythmic timing is the first time I am hearing a vocalist/coach mention that with regards to this performance. Watching more!
Its not about the couple specifically,its about the reunification of north & south korea & the hope that one day the two sides(of the arirang hill) will again be together as one
Thank you for the insight. I mentioned that toward the end of my reaction. I dug a little deeper and found more on the symbolism and added a video segment in. Thank you for watching.
Her song titled everyone is a real masterpiece. Even she said it was one of the most difficult songs for her to sing because of the breath control it takes. On a side note maybe you can do a reaction to the video David Phelps the most resonant high notes. He's another truly amazing singer.
I could tell towards the end you were lost for words and in shock. Don't worry we all had the same reaction the first time discovering So Hyang. Keep reacting to her and be blessed by her. Please react to Bridge over troubled water. Great reaction and take care.
Sohyang is best female vocalist nowadays.😆 Hopefully enjoy her angelic voice. I highly recommend you to react "you raise me up" 2018 immortal song2 version. To avoid copyright issue, use vimeo version.🤣 I enjoyed your reaction, thanks 😊
So Hyang always arranged her songs she sang herself she is a cancer survival she teaches at a university probely in music.She writes also fantasy stories. She is called the Mariah Carey of Korea, she is in het forties. "I have nothing"she sang higher than Whitney! "Lean on me" Micael Bolton was presence and was so impressed he invited her to sing with him at his concert in Korea ! She is my favourite
Thank You Very Much for Reacting To Queenn SOHYANG. More Sohyang Please, i recommend you sir BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER, LEAN ON ME, YOU RAISE ME UP 2018, I HAVE NOTHING AND EVERYONE (masterpiece of sohyang)
Great reaction,you look a little stunned. You now know why when Dimash is referred to as the king when it comes to singing, sohyang is referred to by many as his queen. My no1 wish before I die,although still pretty young,I want to see a dimash/sohyang collaboration. So hyang is known for the way she can emote during a song,she has the ability to move people,often to tears,even when we dont understand lyrically wot she is saying. Obviously she sang this particular song with emotion because as a korean it is very close to her heart BUT she always sings like this,its one of her trademarks. The original of this song,which is a folk song,sounds only slightly like sohyangs version & thats the basic melody BUT its had the sohyang treatment & thats what has turned it into this more anthemic version with the orchestra. If you are going to do more sohyang then you should know now that sohyang herself is responsible for the arrangements of the songs she performs, which I think takes her musicality to a whole new level knowing that she is not only responsible for the amazing vocal performances but for the superb arrangements too. With regard to future video's, those suggestions for english songs,which I know you're going to get, are straightforward as she speaks english pretty well & doesn't sing with an obvious accent,unlike dimash. But I suggest that for those songs that are in korean( they may have english titles so if you dont recognise the title you should assume it will be sung in korean) that you watch the performances on vimeo as that usually has eng subs. Dont be put off if you cant find eng subs as the lyrics will only enhance your enjoyment of the performance,the lack of lyrics though will not spoil your enjoyment of the piece. As I said, sohyang has the gift of been able to reduce people to tears even when they haven't a clue what the lyrics are (I am the biggest culprit). Please read her story & why she shuns the worldwide fame that so many international record companies have offered her, it will only make you love & appreciate her more. Finally, the national dress etc was only for the purpose of this particular song & is not typical of what she usually sings,the thing with her is she can sing any genre,although a gospel singer at heart,she does ballads,pop,jazz,rock & has been heard rapping,which i'm sure is the last thing you would expect to hear from her after the performance you have just seen. Welcome to the amazing world of sohyang,you will not be disappointed
Can Annyone tell me. Is it true that this song has a describing thought of the relationship between North and South Korea.. I read somewhere that this song has some kind of deeper meaning besides that its a Korean well known song. Or am I wrong ? Thank you for a great reaction. Much love from Stockholm Sweden/ John
Nice reaction! I recommend you "everyone" ( most difficult technically) and "dream DMC festival 2015" (her own song and to me impossible to do a cover) thanks! (Sorry for my English :)
The story behind the song is not a couple love story. It’s a very meaningful song for unity and resilience for the people of Korea. To me, Sohyang’s arrangement reflects people going through “a storm” and hardship walking together. Solidarity and love for your community are very important Korean values.
This song is a metafore for the unify of North-and South Korea . That why is a symbol Koreans and for SoHyang she sang with so many passion! But SoHyang sings always all her songs with passion !
Korea has many versions of "Arirang" folksongs. Every region has it's own variation. We've had these songs from generation after generation for thousands of years from month to month, but no one at the current time knows what actual "Arirang Arirang arroyo" means. We only know the mood of the particular phrase relate to and its somthing like sorrow, hardship, trouble, over passing difficulty, etc... This particular Arirang is the one recently made for DOKDO Island. The island that is on the east sea which belongs to Korea for thousands of years. But Japan is trying to claim the false sovereignty since the time of their innovations to Korea in early 1900. All the metaphors in the songs are about the hardship that Dokdo(taking persona) has to go through and asking it to stand strong and letting it know that we are fighting and will defend Dokdo toether.
Very interesting information. Thank you for that. I did mention the symbolism of the north and south coming together at the end of my reaction. Loved this performance! Thanks for watching.
While Dimash had extensive vocal training at a music conservatory, SoHyang's did not have any formal training to speak of. Matter of fact, her major in college was French Literature.
The context people don't seem to be giving in English is that yes this is a old folk song but the word "Dokdo" is the name of a tiny rocky island that has always belonged to Korea. Old Japanese maps pre-occupation show it as a korean island. After Korea was liberated from the Japanese and were told that all their original land was theirs again, japan claimed Dokdo. Dokdo is a Korean island shown in all kinds of maps including Japanese. "Dokdo, did you hang in there okay last night?" is talking about it being a tiny island in a stormy sea. It is a HUGE issue still, many souvenirs in Korea will have "Dokdo is Korean" on them.
Welcome to So Hyang's world, you picked a great performance to react to first. Also good job pronouncing her name. The meaning of Arirang Alone now tends to be more about the history of Korea and the longing for the North and South to be reunited. Bridge over trouble water vimeo.com/308504033 You Raise Me Up vimeo.com/310917048 I Have Nothing th-cam.com/video/CFtRUSPxcas/w-d-xo.html These are English 'covers'. Don't use MBC links they are fast to slap Copywrite on any of her live performances. Adding 'It's Only My World' a Korean song, which showcases her lower grittier sound, not something she does very often. th-cam.com/video/pa5CsMw6fBI/w-d-xo.html This is an edited MBC link so it should be safe.
Your sincere reaction/analysis makes me smile. Thanks for great reaction!! It's so good Wanna more reaction of her perfomance If you find other her song, I recommend 'oh holy night - so hyang'
Arirang was often sung by unjust prisoners who were taken to the death penalty. At that time, they were comforted and sung together by the public. Arirang is a song that contains complex emotions.
Queen.
2번째 와서 듣고 가네요
시간 기능하니 소향님 노래 전부 몰아보고 갈게요
*Arirang* is the most-beloved Korean folk song. It’s believed to be first sang over 600 years ago, and passed down from generation to generation. No one knows the exact meaning of Arirang but it embodies the spirit of the people of Korea for centuries. Arirang represents the suffering and tribulation (Arirang 'Hill') overcome as people and the nation. If we’re together as one holding hands, we can make it over the hill. The original Arirang is considered an "unofficial national anthem".
*Arirang Alone* is a modern adaptation (released in 1990) of the original song written in the hope of reunification of Koreas. It’s a song of hope and peace. It tells a fantasy of the Island of Dokdo floating in the East Sea all alone singing Arirang. If Dokdo sang Arirang, alone in the Eat Sea, would North and South reunite?
Dokdo is islets centrally located between Mount Baekdu (in northern border of North Korea) and Mount Halla (in Jeju Island, South Korea). Let’s ride a boat together from Baekdu and Halla. When we dock our boats at Dokdo, we’ll witness a new dawn together.
The songwriter’s parents had to leave two sons and a daughter in North Korea during the war. His father’s dying wish to him was “when Korea reunite, go find your older brothers and sister and tell them that their parents did not abandoned them”
소향의 노래를 들으면 한결같은 마음입니다.
천사같은 목소리 와 파워풀한 고음. 거기에 감정까지 곁들어서
최고의 가수 입니다.
반응 고마워요
소향님 노래와 해석까지 감사합니다
역시 소향님 노래는 빨리 넘기는 경우없이 전부 듣게 되네요 3번째와서 듣네요
소향님은 우리나라 국보급 가수입니다 ㅎ
♥♥♥
한글은 잘모르시겠지만...... 저는 이노래를 들으면.. 가끔 운답니다.
우리 부모들의 시련이 느껴저요..우리 키워보겠다고... 목숨걸고 살아오신게 느껴집니다~ ^^
소향은 피아니시모의 섬세함과 포르테의 격정적인 성량을 잘 표현하다, 그리고, 그녀의 순수함과강렬함과 함께 감성의 표현에 달인이다.
이 노래는 한국인의 한 까지 넘 잘 표현했다고...
Goddess So-Hyang. Simply stunning.
Thanks your good reaction!
리액션 영상 많이봤는데 정말 최고의 리액션 영상입니다 음악듣기전에 어떤내용인지 가사 읊어보시는거 보고 정말 감동받았어요 그리고 끊는 타이밍 적당한때 끊으려 노력하시는 모습 좋았고, 다시 영상볼때 앞으로 조금 돌아가서 느낌 이어가시는것까지.. 정말 최고입니다 앞으로도 소향님 노래 많이 해주세요!
Her performances on "Everyone" and "Bridge Over Troubled Water" are beyond description. When a powerful instrument, gifted to such a wonderful person, can work miracles for the rest.
가사를 설명하고 좋은 감상할수 있게 해주시는 분은 처음입니다. 구독했어요!
Thanks Josh! So this is your first experience with Sohyang! Btw I’ve viewed all your reactions to her and loved them all! Please react to ‘the only thing’. Its a quasi live music video but apparently she finished the recording in only 3 takes and so most of the music video is actually live. Thanks again!
Oh yes, You say it right Dimash îs The King and she îs The Queen of vocals!!!
아리랑 가사를 이해하려는 노력이 너무 아름답다
She does her own arrangements and is a Fantasy Novelist as well.
Really? Very cool. She's a kindred spirit and fellow fantasy author. Awesome.
She always sings with passion.
She's reimagined Arirang into a plea to God for the reunification of Korea.
queen
You Raise Me Up is beautiful! I heard Bridge Over Troubled Water first, I love her voice. I found Dimash through her. Thank you Josh!
Hi Leila. Posting my reaction to "You Raise Me Up" shortly. So incredible! She's very special. Thanks for watching.
Sohyang's the best. I love her. Listening to her sing is a cathartic experience, much more so than listening to any other singer I've ever come across. Her Masked Singer performances are profoundly emotional, which is amazing considering the fact that she's wearing a mask and singing in a language I don't understand. I really like the way you react, it's very respectful to the artists.
Thank you for the reaction!!!!
QUEEN SO HYANG!!!!!
More So Hyang please
I love So Hyang. You might notice that her singing venues are on a smaller scale. Because So Hyang does not perform for commercial profit, she is not found among main stream international performers.
Queen So Hyang, the master of resonance. Btw I like your reactions and details. Thank you.
This song and version is a masterpiece.. As all hers are..
Wow !!! you are really good ~ 👍
I like this Singer SOOOO much!! Beautiful and powerful! Nice reaction 😘
She is a textbook of a legendary vocal skills. It's just a tip of her masterpieces iceberg.
Great reaction, and welcome to the Sohyang's world. Cheers^^
Pasti dr Indonesia. Salam kenal
Thank you for the reaction~
Welcome to Sohyang's world~^^
So Hyang is wonderful, any song you do of hers will blow your mind. My favorite being her version of Lean On me, which you will get the added benefit of seeing Michael Bolton react to her!
Welcome to the world of So Hyang, those who find this world, stay here.
She's a globally undiscovered talent. She's very popular in Korea. I'd love to hear you react to her singing "You Raise Me Up" (make sure that you watch the Immortal Songs 2 version, not the one on the outdoor stage.
Also, some of her most touching, heartfelt songs were sang on the Masked Singer. "Do You Know", "Breathe", and "Home"
Enjoy! So Hyang is a game changer in the music industry.
So good 👍
Great reaction! I was waiting for this day lol. Like Dimash, definitely one of the best in the world. She stands out due to her background in gospel. Make sure to check out “Everyone”, You Raise Me Up”, “Lean On Me” , and Whitney’s cover of “I Have Nothing “ (blue dress).
Watch also So Hyang Bridge over Troubled Waters, and You Raise Me Up, and also Lean on Me
All immortal songs 2 versions
Sohyang- Everyone
Mind Blowing
I like it because it's a reaction that understands Arirang's song itself. :)
Everyone is the one to listen next - not a simple folk song, very emotional, richer darker tone, much greater vocal range. She does her own arrangements. Thank you for your thoughtful reaction and analysis.
"Everyone" is an epic song. I also love "Hug Me", but for that one you'd need a version with subtitles.
Thank you for your true reaction
Yes.. a kind of anthum and wearing traditional outfit
Heartfelt and inspiring..
Thank you so much for reacting to Sohyang! :)
I love that you read the lyrics first to understand the song.
And yes she is really gifted.
Please do more reaction to her! There are a lot of her amazing performances to be impressed again and again.
Bb5 at minute 10:17 is the best I've ever heard it's so resonant and supported
Absolutely shocking. Shivers down my spine.
When an Artist makes you feel the song they are singing then it makes an Experience for both the artist as a listener, at that point be comes a Performance and Leaves you feeling good...
Thank you for this informed and objective reaction. Appreciate many of the comments you made. Arirang Alone is a folk song as you said and has morphed into the symbol for the peaceful reunification for the Korean people. While its original intent was what you described, became a true patriotic expression during the Japanese occupation. The lyrics with the geographical references connote special affinity and attachment for Koreans. Its original melody is relatively simple, as most folk songs, so that it's easy for people to pick up. Sohyang rearranged the dynamics of the song to inject drama and turbulence into its presentation, highlighting the pain and suffering of the Korean history, yet delivered the hope and wistful longing for the eventual reunion. Truly remarkable work in its composition.
Sohyang is an impeccable technician with her singing, Each performance is meticulously prepared and diligently practiced for the result she looks to achieve. It's effectively manifested in each note and her fluent runs/riffs. Her singing is gifted with impressive power, control, projection, and most importantly purpose. Really appreciate your remark on singing with feeling. She is well known for her mixed voice, seamless transition, and unmistakable range. You introduced the tribute of vibrancy to Sohyang's voice. This is the first time I hear such a comment, and very much appropriate.
Sohyang has many fabulous performances on the web to enjoy. Some of the early choices could be "Bridge Over Troubled Water", 2018 rendition of "You Raise Me Up", "Everyone" and "Lean On Me". Be advised to find these performances on Immortal Song 2 (IMS2), the same program where you saw Arirang Alone, since Sohyang performed these songs at several venues elsewhere. However, these videos on IMS2 can probably give you the best quality.
Glad to see you enjoy Sohyang's Arirang Alone. Hope to see you again.
You have been addicted to her, like me~~~ ^^ SHE always take a sleep away... I cannot go to bed..... ^^
Love your reaction!! Watch her Bridge over Troubled Waters, You Raise Me Up and Lean on Me from the same TV show. She is just AMAZING!!!!
Thanks for your sincere approach to this song. No reaction video I watched had any time to read the lyric and try and understand it. To me, it shows your sincerity so I think it might be helpful for you to understand the song better if I add my personal (but analytically objective enough) interpretation of this “Arirang”. The following comment is the one I wrote yesterday. I’ll just copy and paste it 😝
Nobody really knows the origin of the word “Arirang”. Some scholars believe it’s just a combination of Koreans’ preferred vowel sounds while others argue it did have its meaning and trying to figure it out. Nonetheless, every single Korean would agree that we express very complicatedly mixed feelings when we sing “Arirang”. There’s a bit of sorrow as life doesn’t always go how we want it to be, a bit of joyful relief as life continues despite all the hardships, a bit of happiness as we do go through happy moments from time to time and finally the loneliness as we cannot fully express all these emotions being in a situation where expressing someone’s emotion is regarded as lack of self-control (there were super many unwritten “rules” in Chosun dynasty, which was the last kingdom of Korea, owing to an extreme application of Confucius philosophy). So they sang.
Yes they sang “Arirang” to express all these emotions because they knew no one could accuse them of anything if they use the word that doesn’t really have any meaning.
It is a silent scream against the harsh environment they were in. Though they didn’t give it up and accepted actively what they had to face. By singing “Arirang”, they are saying life is shit but worth going through which is clearly different from being sarcastic or hypocritical. I guess this is probably why a lot of people find two contradictory feelings when they listen to this music: positive feelings like happiness, hope and so on and negative feelings of deep agony, loss and so on.
In this particular version of “Arirang”, the speaker tries to show his wish for reunification of North and South in an indirect way, using Dokdo as a tool that empathises him because the island knows what it is like to be alone.
Well,, this is how I get the “Arirang” in my gut as a Korean. Hope this would help you to understand the song better 😉
P.s- the Arirang Hill is a conceptual space which could be a hardship we have to get over holding our hands together or a promising place where we can find what we have been longing for (in this song it is the reunification of South and North and all the divided family)
Thank you so much for this write up. I did step away and came back after discovering this unification symbolism and I recorded a little segment talking about it toward the end of my reaction. Thanks again sir. This is great info!
Of course she is good, she is brilliant, otherwise we would not have recommended it :)) As always well explained ... thanks Have a nice afternoon. Greetings from Germany.
... Sohyang is my Queen of Singers and Dimash is my King of Singers 🙂❤️❤️❤️🕊️ "Everyone" is one of my favorite!! ( get the one with Eng. Sub.)
Wouldnt be wonderful a duet between Dimash and So Hyang.... my favorite singers (male and female)? I only wish :D
your reaction as a expert guides us very good thank you
So hyang one of my favorite female vocalists. Her performance of “ everyone” is beyond amazing. But I have a request that you react to her closest and best friend, “Park Ki Young”, I like Park Ki Young because they have about the same vocal range but Park Ki Young is a tad more versatile and can belt them with equal emotional impact and power in rock, pop, soul, jazz flamenco, and classical ( opera). A few of my favorites that are worthy of reacting to: ( either privately or publicly)
TH-cam:
“I dreamt I dwelt in Marble Halls” ( 5:02 duration. A rare hidden gem that she performs the way it was intended to be performed : as an opera in English.
Anya’s Version is the standard but sung more as a ballad but Park Ki Young opera style takes you to church and beyond.
“ Nella Fantasia “ ( 4:08 best version ever and I’ve watched and listened to all the world class vocalists perform this)
“ Goodbye a word that’s too short” ( click 5:08 one she’s in the celestial realm and sustains the last note a long time. An Soul / R& B masterpiece.
“wound” ( emotionally impactful 5:57 duration with the blue strobe lighting. Another amazing soulful performance )
“Hit hee Park Ki Young” (one of my all-time favorites 5:18 duration)
Lonely Night( one of a series of “ Mask” performances that she won. Amazing vocal range and the ending is up in the stratosphere.
“ So hyang”
receives a lot more reactors and reactions than Park Ki Young”
because of her ability to sing many popular American songs in English which she performs with emotional impact.
But please don’t judge a vocalist by the number of requests you receive-altho your fans are usually right.
But I’m a professional singer and my singing friends unanimously agree that both So Hyang and Park Ki Young are not only world class vocalists but equal in talent.
What I’m trying to say is I believe Park Ki Young deserves far more reactions and I promise you and your subscribers who love So Hyang ( and I am among them) that you won’t be disappointed listening to a Park Ki Young song. They are both about the same age ( early 40s but look amazing for their age!) and the closest and best of friends. Please start your Park Ki Young Journey with 2 opera-like songs“ ( to get a feel for her more operatic style):
Nella Fantasia” ( click first vid 4:08 duration)
which I consider the best rendition I have ever heard of this song and I have heard all the world class vocalists perform it)
You’ve just begun your journey. Staying with opera, please consider next an operetta masterpiece titled
“I dreamt I Dwelt In Marble Halls Park” ( 5:02). One of the rare ones performed by her in English and Sung the way it was intended to be sung; in opera style and NOT as a ballad as Anya’s popular version was renditioned in ( hauntingly beautiful but a total departure from its roots which was taken from an 1836 Operetta titled Bohemian Rapture.
Now that you know what a fabulous voice she has, you may want to publicly react to any of the following that showcases her ability to perform in a multitude of genres.
**
* soul “Goodbye a word that’s too short” ( click 5:08 one she’s in the celestial realm and sustains the last note a long time.
*Soul “wound” ( emotionally impactful 5:57 duration with the blue strobe lighting)
*soul “Hit hee Park Ki Young” (one of my all-time favorites 5:18 duration)
Soul/R& B
“Lonely Night” ( one of a serious of “ Mask” performances that she won. Amazing vocal range and the ending is up in the stratosphere.
*Flamenco“
“To You” ( awesome flamenco beat. If you love flamenco, you will love her performance!Click the 4:28 posted by KBS)
** Rock
“ Spring Rain” ( rock /soul with an emotionally impactful and incredible raspy voice ending. 6:53 posted by KBS)
All ParkKiyoung songs I recommend are live performances.
Again, I love Sohyang but hope you give her closest friend a chance to showcase her world-class talent.
All love in isolation from Miami Beach, Florida,
Al
Thank you for posting this. So Hyang is exquisite and mesmerizing, but Park Ki Young is just as well. I only recently discovered Park Ki Young through her singing "Lucille," and I was blown away. I didn't realize they were friends, but what a power duo.
legendary Sohyang~~~
It's amazing how you are this detailed with a song reaction, I don't see this type of dedication often and is here to stay for more content. SoHyang have just one of the most amazing backstory as a singer and her journey of her singing evolution is something I am always interested in. She sang so many English songs even when it is her second language so I am sure you will enjoy those without the need for lyrics. I recommend Lean On Me, Bridge over Trouble, I have Nothing and You Raise me Up with one of the best arrangement I have seen where Micheal Bolton called her a virtuoso and David Foster was so impressed, he invited her to a concert of his as a guest singer. Her other Korean song performance such as Dream, Everyone and Breathe are so of the best and just the tip of an iceberg so I hope you enjoy your journey into discovering a talent that blew me away.
A warm welcome to Sohyang world
"upon this world" "o holy night " "hug me" "bridge oh trouble water" "you raise me up" "you are the reason "
*Please react to So Hyang performing Lean On Me on this same show* One of her best performances is of Lean on Me, she can get pretty gospel and take it to church! and the best part is Michael Bolton is a guest audience! She is a master arranger too! And it is something new you will get to appreciate from her take on this song! can't wait.
If interested:
"Everyone" - vimeo.com/249195615
“Where Are You” (no interview interruption during climax) - vimeo.com/254194327
"You Raise Me Up" - th-cam.com/video/te_L9ofhUt8/w-d-xo.html
"Lean on me" - th-cam.com/video/GvsgCllcNPE/w-d-xo.html
"Oh Holy Night"- th-cam.com/video/YwgF3Gylu-0/w-d-xo.html
“The Power of Love” - th-cam.com/video/LrNkVRrK7_I/w-d-xo.html
“I have Nothing" - th-cam.com/video/-G388dTAGOo/w-d-xo.html
“In The Flower Garden” - th-cam.com/video/l8yfv2XyHjo/w-d-xo.html
"Bridge Over Troubled Water" - th-cam.com/video/C6iHh4yBxCo/w-d-xo.html
("Hug Me” to "Mona Lisa," below, were performed with a mask on, on a show, called “King of Mask Singer,” on which the performers are supposed to perform anonymously, so that the audience will presumably choose a winner based purely on the performance. The last link among these is to a compilation video of all of So-Hyang’s solo performances on the show, in order of performance.)
"Hug Me" - vimeo.com/217301888
"Home" - vimeo.com/222079856
"Dear Love" - vimeo.com/212597227
"Do You Know" - vimeo.com/214374144
"Breathe" - vimeo.com/220191647
"Mona Lisa" - vimeo.com/297885714
So-Hyang solo compilation on “King of Mask Singer” - th-cam.com/video/WAiZFZrpeBs/w-d-xo.html
For more, the following is a site with links to a plethora of live performances, compiled by some truly dedicated fan(s):
sohyang-live.com/live
How many times did you say "wow" in this video?
I enjoyed the authentic and unfeigned reaction and how you were taking it all in. Your point about her rhythmic timing is the first time I am hearing a vocalist/coach mention that with regards to this performance.
Watching more!
Its not about the couple specifically,its about the reunification of north & south korea & the hope that one day the two sides(of the arirang hill) will again be together as one
Thank you for the insight. I mentioned that toward the end of my reaction. I dug a little deeper and found more on the symbolism and added a video segment in. Thank you for watching.
I know I should've waited til after your reaction
Her song titled everyone is a real masterpiece. Even she said it was one of the most difficult songs for her to sing because of the breath control it takes. On a side note maybe you can do a reaction to the video David Phelps the most resonant high notes. He's another truly amazing singer.
차분하고 진지한 리액션은 참 오랜만에 보는듯하다 더많은 리액션 부탁해요 ㅎㅎ
This is still my fave performance from her. Her OSTs are some of my faves too.
I could tell towards the end you were lost for words and in shock. Don't worry we all had the same reaction the first time discovering So Hyang. Keep reacting to her and be blessed by her. Please react to Bridge over troubled water. Great reaction and take care.
It is all about reuniting both Koreas, here is the Wiki about So Hyang
Yep. I talk about that at the end of the reaction. Thank you. It's a great song and she is incredible!
@@SingerDadReacts you will love her other videos, also some of the songs from Masked Singer
She's another level.
JUST WOW !!! For sure, Sohynag is the best (female) vocalist with Park Ki Young in this world. Thanks. From N.Y.
She is a present Queen of song.
i would recommend you to watch her song "Everyone". it touched all of the people who watched the tv show. I cried a lot. lol
Thank you for your great reaction. Subscribed and liked!
Awesome thank you!
천사가 가수하고싶어서 소향으로 태어난거같다, 정말 대단해👍
Korea's most traditional song 'arirang alone' but, Her specialty is Gospel or RnB. I hope you will react to many of the songs recommended by others.
Sohyang is best female vocalist nowadays.😆
Hopefully enjoy her angelic voice.
I highly recommend you to react "you raise me up" 2018 immortal song2 version. To avoid copyright issue, use vimeo version.🤣
I enjoyed your reaction, thanks 😊
Как поёт божественно!!!
So Hyang always arranged her songs she sang herself she is a cancer survival she teaches at a university probely in music.She writes also fantasy stories. She is called the Mariah Carey of Korea, she is in het forties. "I have nothing"she sang higher than Whitney! "Lean on me" Micael Bolton was presence and was so impressed he invited her to sing with him at his concert in Korea ! She is my favourite
Thank You Very Much for Reacting To Queenn SOHYANG. More Sohyang Please, i recommend you sir BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER, LEAN ON ME, YOU RAISE ME UP 2018, I HAVE NOTHING AND EVERYONE (masterpiece of sohyang)
Great reaction,you look a little stunned. You now know why when Dimash is referred to as the king when it comes to singing, sohyang is referred to by many as his queen. My no1 wish before I die,although still pretty young,I want to see a dimash/sohyang collaboration. So hyang is known for the way she can emote during a song,she has the ability to move people,often to tears,even when we dont understand lyrically wot she is saying. Obviously she sang this particular song with emotion because as a korean it is very close to her heart BUT she always sings like this,its one of her trademarks. The original of this song,which is a folk song,sounds only slightly like sohyangs version & thats the basic melody BUT its had the sohyang treatment & thats what has turned it into this more anthemic version with the orchestra. If you are going to do more sohyang then you should know now that sohyang herself is responsible for the arrangements of the songs she performs, which I think takes her musicality to a whole new level knowing that she is not only responsible for the amazing vocal performances but for the superb arrangements too. With regard to future video's, those suggestions for english songs,which I know you're going to get, are straightforward as she speaks english pretty well & doesn't sing with an obvious accent,unlike dimash. But I suggest that for those songs that are in korean( they may have english titles so if you dont recognise the title you should assume it will be sung in korean) that you watch the performances on vimeo as that usually has eng subs. Dont be put off if you cant find eng subs as the lyrics will only enhance your enjoyment of the performance,the lack of lyrics though will not spoil your enjoyment of the piece. As I said, sohyang has the gift of been able to reduce people to tears even when they haven't a clue what the lyrics are (I am the biggest culprit). Please read her story & why she shuns the worldwide fame that so many international record companies have offered her, it will only make you love & appreciate her more. Finally, the national dress etc was only for the purpose of this particular song & is not typical of what she usually sings,the thing with her is she can sing any genre,although a gospel singer at heart,she does ballads,pop,jazz,rock & has been heard rapping,which i'm sure is the last thing you would expect to hear from her after the performance you have just seen. Welcome to the amazing world of sohyang,you will not be disappointed
Thank you for the information. She's so incredibly talented and brilliant!
가사 해석력이
진짜 wow
Welcome to So hyang’s world and a new subscriber here👏🏻👏🏻....
the island in the east Sea is called Dokdo (Lonely Island)
Wow
Can Annyone tell me. Is it true that this song has a describing thought of the relationship between North and South Korea..
I read somewhere that this song has some kind of deeper meaning besides that its a Korean well known song.
Or am I wrong ?
Thank you for a great reaction.
Much love from Stockholm Sweden/ John
Nice reaction! I recommend you "everyone" ( most difficult technically) and "dream DMC festival 2015" (her own song and to me impossible to do a cover) thanks! (Sorry for my English :)
We're so lucky to hear her beautiful voice even after she overcame cancer👍
She sang three kinds of Arirang; Arirang Alone, New Arirang, and Arirang( a song from a TV show).
The story behind the song is not a couple love story. It’s a very meaningful song for unity and resilience for the people of Korea. To me, Sohyang’s arrangement reflects people going through “a storm” and hardship walking together. Solidarity and love for your community are very important Korean values.
Yes. Thank you. I talk about this other meaning in my post reaction to the song. Thanks for watching.
WOW
Your speaking voice is so soothing! Also, I love that you did some research before reacting to the video
This song is a metafore for the unify of North-and South Korea . That why is a symbol Koreans and for SoHyang she sang with so many passion! But SoHyang sings always all her songs with passion !
Thank you. Yes, I mentioned this toward the end of my reaction. I wish I had known more of that meaning going in. Thanks again.
Korea has many versions of "Arirang" folksongs. Every region has it's own variation. We've had these songs from generation after generation for thousands of years from month to month, but no one at the current time knows what actual "Arirang Arirang arroyo" means. We only know the mood of the particular phrase relate to and its somthing like sorrow, hardship, trouble, over passing difficulty, etc... This particular Arirang is the one recently made for DOKDO Island. The island that is on the east sea which belongs to Korea for thousands of years. But Japan is trying to claim the false sovereignty since the time of their innovations to Korea in early 1900. All the metaphors in the songs are about the hardship that Dokdo(taking persona) has to go through and asking it to stand strong and letting it know that we are fighting and will defend Dokdo toether.
Very interesting information. Thank you for that. I did mention the symbolism of the north and south coming together at the end of my reaction. Loved this performance! Thanks for watching.
While Dimash had extensive vocal training at a music conservatory, SoHyang's did not have any formal training to speak of.
Matter of fact, her major in college was French Literature.
🙏🎶☄️😁. Pozdrawiam 🤗🇵🇱
👍👍👍👍
Everyone is AMAZING!!
The context people don't seem to be giving in English is that yes this is a old folk song but the word "Dokdo" is the name of a tiny rocky island that has always belonged to Korea. Old Japanese maps pre-occupation show it as a korean island. After Korea was liberated from the Japanese and were told that all their original land was theirs again, japan claimed Dokdo. Dokdo is a Korean island shown in all kinds of maps including Japanese. "Dokdo, did you hang in there okay last night?" is talking about it being a tiny island in a stormy sea. It is a HUGE issue still, many souvenirs in Korea will have "Dokdo is Korean" on them.
I'm not sure if you've reacted to it but her cover of Fate is amazing 🤗
Welcome to So Hyang's world, you picked a great performance to react to first. Also good job pronouncing her name.
The meaning of Arirang Alone now tends to be more about the history of Korea and the longing for the North and South to be reunited.
Bridge over trouble water vimeo.com/308504033
You Raise Me Up vimeo.com/310917048
I Have Nothing th-cam.com/video/CFtRUSPxcas/w-d-xo.html
These are English 'covers'.
Don't use MBC links they are fast to slap Copywrite on any of her live performances.
Adding 'It's Only My World' a Korean song, which showcases her lower grittier sound, not something she does very often. th-cam.com/video/pa5CsMw6fBI/w-d-xo.html This is an edited MBC link so it should be safe.
Your sincere reaction/analysis makes me smile. Thanks for great reaction!! It's so good
Wanna more reaction of her perfomance
If you find other her song,
I recommend 'oh holy night - so hyang'
Welcome to so hyang fandome... Lean on me, everyone, o holy night, fate, monalisa
I like that you explain this song.😄
아~~~ 오늘도 잠 다잤네~
횽 살려죠 탈출불가 ㅋ덜썩
Arirang was often sung by unjust prisoners who were taken to the death penalty. At that time, they were comforted and sung together by the public. Arirang is a song that contains complex emotions.