I can’t come out to the world for 5 years
The story of a ‘famous song’ that was almost abandoned
Photo = Singer of a song that everyone rejected but has been a hit for 20 years (online community)
Kim Jong-kook’s ‘Lovely‘ is now loved as a famous song. However, there was a difficult journey before this song came out into the world. Composer Joo Young-hoon confessed through a broadcast that this song was “a song that was on the verge of being discarded and rejected by everyone.”
Joo Young-hoon appeared on MBC entertainment programs and radio broadcasts in the past and said, “Kim Jong-kook’s ‘Lovely’ was a song made in a Japanese style at the request of a Japanese female idol group.
However, it was returned by the Japanese side, and after that, I offered it to several domestic singers, but it was rejected every time.” At the time, it was said that the song was sent to ‘Sugar’, ‘Can’, and new singers, but they all ignored it.
Photo = Kim Jong-guk, Joo Young-hoon (online community)
The background of how this song came to Kim Jong-kook was also unique. Joo Young-hoon explained, “I needed an additional song while working on Kim Jong-kook’s album, so I sent it as an appendix, and Kim Jong-kook said he wanted to do this appendix song rather than the main song.” He added that the lyrics were also rewritten at Kim Jong-kook’s request.
What’s interesting is that the draft lyrics of ‘Lovely’ were completely different from the current version. Joo Young-hoon said that the title of the song at the time was ‘Blue Heaven’ and the lyrics were abstract and emotional Japanese-style content such as “Oh~ love, joy, happiness and smile.”
When these lyrics were revealed on air, the contestants responded that they were somewhat strange and burst into laughter. Joo Young-hoon cheerfully overlooked this, saying, “A song becomes a completely different song depending on the lyrics and who sings it.”
A long relationship between people that no one knew about
Photo = Kim Jong-guk (online community)
‘Lovely’ is a song born from the long relationship between Kim Jong-kook and Joo Young-hoon. Recalling his first meeting with Kim Jong-kook, Joo Young-hoon said, “In 1994, when I was composing music in Tae Jin-ah’s office, Kim Jong-kook came to audition. “At the time, I almost mistook him for a friend who was working in an organization because he was so absorbed in his posture,” he recalled.
He also said, “I didn’t think Kim Jong-kook’s face would be as popular with female fans as R.ef’s Lee Seong-wook. “That’s why there weren’t even pictures in Turbo’s first album,” he said honestly, drawing laughter. However, Turbo’s songs created with Kim Jong-kook were very popular in nightclubs and dominated the era.
‘Lovely’ received a warm response after its release and became Kim Jong-kook’s representative song and a regular guest of wedding congratulatory songs. Joo Young-hoon recalled the times when this song was repeatedly rejected and said, “In the end, I think each song has an owner.”
Photo = Kim Jong-guk (online community)
Recently, this song is causing another craze among the younger generation in Japan. The challenge is spreading on YouTube and TikTok, with Japanese people uploading videos of choreography to ‘Lovely (サランスロウォ)’. Domestic fans are also surprised by the potential of the song becoming popular again after 18 years.
The nearly 20-year journey of ‘Lovely’ once again proves that a song once rejected by everyone has now become a masterpiece loved internationally across generations.
In what ways has “Lovely”‘s resurgence in popularity through social media and globalization challenged traditional notions of a song’s lifespan?
Here are some open-ended questions based on the article, divided into thematic sections:
**Section 1: The Origins and Rejection of “Lovely”**
* Joo Young-hoon mentions that “Lovely” was initially rejected by several singers and producers. What factors might have contributed to this initial lack of interest? How does this experience illustrate the challenges faced by songwriters in the music industry?
* The article states that the original lyrics of “Lovely” were vastly different. How do you think those initial lyrics might have impacted the song’s reception? What role do lyrics play in shaping the overall impact of a melody?
**Section 2: The Kim Jong-Kook Connection**
* How did Kim Jong-kook’s unique musical style and personality contribute to transforming “Lovely” into a successful track? What were the key elements in his interpretation that resonated with audiences?
* Joo Young-hoon initially didn’t think Kim Jong-kook would have the widespread appeal he eventually achieved. What does this anecdote suggest about the nature of predicting success in the entertainment industry?
**Section 3: The Song’s Legacy and Enduring Appeal**
* “Lovely” has experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly among younger generations in Japan. What factors might be contributing to this renewed interest? How does social media and globalization influence the lifespan of a song?
* The article mentions that “Lovely” has become a staple at wedding receptions. What makes this song so appropriate for such occasions? What emotions does it evoke that contribute to its lasting popularity?
**Section 4: Reflecting on the Creative Process**
* Joo Young-hoon emphasizes the concept that “each song has an owner.” Do you agree with this statement? How does the relationship between a songwriter and an artist impact the success of a song?
* What lessons can be learned from the story of “Lovely”? What insights does this example offer about the nature of perseverance, artistic vision, and the unpredictable nature of success?
These are just starting points for discussion. Encourage participants to reflect on their own musical tastes, experiences, and perspectives when considering these questions.
