Remembering SHINee’s Jonghyun

Photo Credit: SM Entertainment

On December 18, 2017, the world said farewell to the iconic musician Kim Jonghyun. Even though a year has flown by, he will never be forgotten by those who loved and respected him. As a longtime SHINee fan, I want to honor the memory of SHINee’s first lead singer, Kim Jonghyun.

Unfortunately, “Shinin” was released posthumously, so we never saw him beam with joy at the success of his single and album “Poet Artist”. (The album claimed the number one spot on the charts in South Korea, America and Japan.) “Shinin” alone is a beautiful and immortal single that will be loved forever. 

Jonghyun’s pink hair, the variety of colorful clothing and catchy beat made “She Is” irresistible! It’s impossible to forgot this one after listening to it. 

I have watched this video countless times marveling at his smooth vocals and dynamic stage presence. “Deja-boo” was one of his finest solo songs!

During happier times with his band SHINee, he was all smiles as they celebrated the Christmas season with fans (aka ShaWols). The song “Colorful” was so much fun!

Jonghyun was the master of selfies. He knew how to look perfect from any angle.

Jjong knew how to enjoy a delicious yet colorful cake. This tasty social media post  was unforgettable.

 He took pride in his workouts. He seemed to be disciplined and dedicated at the gym.

He even enjoyed great friendships with his fellow labelmates. Jonghyun seemed to be a valuable senior to Red Velvet

Rest in peace, Kim Jonghyun.

Photo and Video Credits: Instagram and SM Entertainment’s YouTube/SMTOWN..

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BTS Photo of Michael B. Jordan and Co-Star Jamie Foxx

Yesterday, the Creed 2 star shared an exclusive photo on-set his upcoming biography/drama film “Just Mercy”. In the snapshot, Michael B. Jordan posed alongside Academy Award-winning star Jamie Foxx. He admitted that the candid image was a behind the scenes picture from their upcoming movie and wished Jamie a belated happy birthday.

Michael: “A lil BTS of me & @iamjamiefoxx on our new movie 🤫 but wanted to take this time to wish big bro a Happy Belated Bday one of the most humble, hard working and just overall greatest people I’ve encountered in this industry. Such a legend”

According to IMDB, “Just Mercy” is about famed civil rights defense attorney Bryan Stevenson remembering a death row prisoner he worked hard to free from his sentence. It’s based on the biography written by Bryan Stevenson himself. Michael plays the lawyer, while Jamie portrays prisoner Walter McMillian. “Just Mercy” is scheduled to hit theaters in 2020.

Photos Credit: Michael B Jordan.  

 

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“La Bohème” and “Cendrillon” Kick Off the New Year at Lyric Opera

Siobhan Stagg “CENDRILLON ” Photo Credit: Todd Rosenberg

After successful openings this fall, Puccini’s romantic tearjerker and an Italian production inspired by the Cinderella tale are ready to return to the Lyric Opera of Chicago.”La Bohème” is scheduled  for a string of performances January 10 – 31, while “Cendrillon” has planned shows for January 11-20.

For “Cendrillon”, famed international performers Siobhan Stagg, Alice Coote, Elizabeth Bishop, Derek Welton, Emily Pogorelc and Kayleigh Decker round out the main cast. Lyric’s music director Sir Andrew Davis and international conductor Francesco Milioto headline the skilled crew who will bring this unique Cinderella tale to life.

Learn more about “La Bohème” by clicking here.

A Special Thanks to The Silverman Group and Lyric Opera of Chicago for the press release.

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Here’s Where You Can Watch The MUST SEE K-DRAMAS of 2019

Now that DramaFever is gone, the search is on for the best places to find your K-dramas in the coming year. Look no further, because I’ve narrowed down the top places to stream new shows legally.

OnDemandKorea has a great mix of everything! After DramaFever shut down in October, ODK picked up a large selection of their latest and popular K-dramas. ODK also offers several programs in the variety/reality, documentary, sports, religion genres and more. There is literally something for everyone on this Korea Content Platform, LLC. approved streaming site.

Cable shows like Song Joong Ki’s “The Chronicles of Aseudal”, Lee Dong Wook’s “Touch Your Heart”, Park Bo Young’s “Abyss” and Lee Jong Suk and Lee Na Young’s “Love Is A Supplement” may be licensed by a variety of online streaming sites like NetFlix, YouTube, Amazon and VIKI.

Bae Doo Na and Joo Ji Hoon’s “Kingdom”, Kim So Hyun’s “Love Alarm” and Ji Soo’s “Because It’s My First Love” are all NetFlix productions! It’s safe to say these will start streaming exclusively there.

Happy viewing in 2019!

Image Credits: Song Couple and Kim So Hyun

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BTSCelebs to Review Jolina Petersheim’s “How The Light Gets In”

In March 2019, author Jolina Petersheim plans to release her next contemporary fiction novel titled “How The Light Gets In”. Tyndale House Publishers graciously sent BTSCelebs an advance reader copy last month…. so this winter I’m reviewing it!

I haven’t started reading the novel, but it seems “How The Light Gets In” resembles the biblical story of Ruth. The main character’s name is Ruth. She and her mother-in-law search for a new start after tragically losing their husbands.

I’ll try to give you my complete review before the early Spring release date. Stay Tuned!

*A Special Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for the advance reader copy of the book*

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3 South Korean Singers Poised to be Stiff Competition for BTS

BTS has taken the music industry by storm with their unique music and mesmerizing choreography! It’s only a matter of time before they share the spotlight with another talented act from South Korea. The country is full of gifted musicians, and today I plan to place a spotlight on three chart-topping K-Pop artists who could prove to be stiff competition for BTS in the USA.

IU

The 25 year-old singer and actress continues her award-winning streak with numerous projects. IU, who celebrates a 10-year career anniversary this year, is best known for songs like “Nagging”, Good Day” and “Palette”. In October, she released her first alternative R&B single “Bbibbi” just five months after her cable mini-series “My Mister” ended.

Watch the music video for the single that was streamed over 100 million times.

BLACK PINK

After debuting a little over two years ago, BLACK PINK has blown music lovers away by releasing a string of hits like “Whistle”, “As If It’s Your Last”, and”Ddu-Du Ddu-Du”. In addition to selling millions of singles, the girl group set YouTube records by earning 100s of millions of views for multiple videos. BLACK PINK recently signed a deal with Interscope Records & UMG to start promoting their music here in the States.

“As If It’s Your Last” is inching its way to half a billion views!

EXO

Since 2012,  EXO enjoyed the title as Asia’s number one boy band! They consistently headlined global tours and music festivals. Despite a few members parting ways with the team, they have stayed strong through their hit singles and record album sales. EXO is best known for songs like “Growl”, “Call Me Baby” and “Ko Ko Bop”. Many K-drama and movie fans are well-acquainted with members D.O., Kai, Chanyeol and more as they solidified their successful acting careers.

Watch a dance video for one of their earlier hits “Growl”.

Keep your eye on these singers as the years go by.

All rights to the photo and videos belongs to Big Hit Entertainment, KaKao M, YG Entertainment, SM Entertainment.

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Book Review: Carla Laureano’s “Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe”

Rachel, Melody and Ana are back in Carla Laureano’s newest Supper Club Novel “Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe”. Readers are quickly getting introduced to the trio of friends through their foodie/romance books. The first book in the series, “The Saturday Night Supper Club, Rachel and Alex’s love story was highlighted.

“Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe” is all about Melody Johansson’s  new relationship with handsome young pilot Justin Keller. The baker/pastry chef accidentally meets the him when he gets stranded near her job.  Despite their initial attraction to each other, they aren’t ready for yet another unpredictable relationship. The two part ways hoping to never run into each other again. However, nosy friends and an unexpected death in the family have them crossing paths repeatedly. Over time, the pair starts dating, but their polar opposite career aspirations become yet another hurdle.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love this one! “Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe” is abounding in delicious pastries, loaves of bread and love. This book also illustrates different levels of love through faith, friendship, family and significant others.

“Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe” releases in February 2019.

*A Special Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for the advance reader copy of the book*

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Lecrae Promotes “Creed 2”

Image Credit: Lecrae’s Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bqcrhuclcue/

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Cirque du Soleil’s “VOLTA” Premieres Spring 2019 in Chicago

Photo Credit: Matt Beard & Costumes: Zaldy

The famous show plans to start wowing audiences May 18th under the Big Top!

According to The Silverman Group‘s official press release, VOLTA will run through June 23rd in Soldier Field’s South Lot. The public relations boutique described the grand performance as a “captivating voyage of discovery”. “Energetic, urban and contemporary, VOLTA is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. Driven by a stirring melodic score and inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA is a story of transformation.”

Click Here to read the official press release.

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Which K-Pop Stars Are Touring North America Next?

K-Pop is on fire in North America!

Before BTS fever, singers who found fame in South Korea were performing here on a yearly basis. Now, Amber Liu (f(x), WINNER, Tiffany Young  (Girls Generation) and more are the next group of superstars headed to the States in the coming months.

Amber’s “Gone Rogue” Tour has already sold out shows in Washington D.C., New York and San Francisco! Next month, her very first solo tour plans to make stops all over the USA with one special concert in Toronto, Canada. Click Here to read more on her social media page.

WINNER’s “Everywhere” Tour is ready to kick off 2019 with an impressive list of concerts across the country! Like Amber, they’ll meet everyone in major US cities and Toronto. (See photo above for details).

Tiffany recently released a video teasing her upcoming solo tour “Lips On Lips”  in March.

News about TWICE’s 2019 tour was rumored, and fans are anxiously waiting for details like dates and venues. Click Here to visit their social media account and stay updated on the latest.

An early welcome to all of these beloved stars! I hope they have a great time.

All rights to the photo and video belongs to YG Entertainment and Paradigm Agency.

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