Jo Kwon of 'Immortal Songs' completed a tribute stage fitting of the nickname 'Male Lee Jeong-hyun' with overwhelming energy and touching storytelling.
The episode of KBS2's 'Immortal Songs' aired on the 4th, featuring 'Artist Lee Jeong-hyun', where Kim Ki-tae, Stephanie, Chuu, Jo Kwon, and CLOSE YOUR EYES took the stage one after another, adding new colors to Lee Jeong-hyun's hit songs.
First up, Kim Ki-tae formed a band and transformed into a rocker, taking on the musical challenge with 'Ari Ari'. Kim Ki-tae captivated the panel of judges with a clear and dynamic stage performance. The energy of the original song combined with Kim Ki-tae's unique cries and explosions emitted a powerful rock spirit. The support from a traditional Korean music team added to the experimental and intense stage. Lee Jeong-hyun praised, "I love rock music, and I want to release an album in this version."
Stephanie took the stage next with 'You'. As the 'Performance Queen' following in Lee Jeong-hyun's footsteps, she showcased her presence perfectly. This stage, filled with her unique performance and unwavering vocal ability, was a culmination of artistic expression that left the judges in awe. Lee Jeong-hyun, watching the performance, expressed her desire to make a comeback, saying, "I think I need to release an album soon." Kim Ki-tae secured his first win with 410 votes against Stephanie.
Next, Chuu took over the baton and sang 'Jul-la'. Transforming into a Barbie doll, Chuu paid homage to Lee Jeong-hyun's stage, catching attention from the start. She added her own fresh and lively charm to the identity of Lee Jeong-hyun's version of 'Jul-la', delivering an impressive performance. Her lovely performance, reminiscent of a character, captivated not only Lee Jeong-hyun but also the judges. Lee Jeong-hyun commented, "So cute. I hope my daughter grows up like that," and added, "I was surprised that she sang it even more deliciously than I did." Kim Ki-tae maintained his winning streak with two consecutive victories.
The fourth performer, Jo Kwon, chose 'Change'. Jo Kwon, who nurtured his dream of becoming a singer by watching Lee Jeong-hyun's stage, infused his growth story into his performance. Following a stage featuring a young dancer reminiscent of 13-year-old Jo Kwon auditioning, he incorporated ideas inspired by the movie 'The Matrix' to create a new stage. The ending, where past and future Jo Kwon embrace, delivered a deep resonance. Lee Jeong-hyun expressed her admiration, saying, "I was so surprised and got goosebumps." Jo Kwon earned 417 votes, stopping Kim Ki-tae's three-win streak and claiming the winner's seat.
The final stage was performed by CLOSE YOUR EYES. They transformed 'Crazy' into the 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' (Kedehun) concept, becoming 'Lion Eyes'. With a powerful performance, CLOSE YOUR EYES presented a fresh take on 'Crazy', perfectly executing it with a sophisticated arrangement. Additionally, the stage direction and composition, as if they had burst out of 'Kedehun', heightened the immersion of the performance. Lee Jeong-hyun praised, "It was so new. The arrangement of the rap part was especially good," giving a thumbs up.
As the episode concluded, Lee Jeong-hyun remarked, "It feels like I'm dreaming. My wonderful juniors arranged my songs so beautifully and showed performances even more amazing than mine," adding, "I don't think I'll be able to sleep tonight. I was so moved, and I had goosebumps the whole time."
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly Lee Jeong-hyun's finale performance of her mega hit 'Wa', returning after 10 years. Lee Jeong-hyun exuded overwhelming energy with her matured stage presence and performance. In particular, this stage, supported by dancer Kim Si-won, reached its peak with a grand yet Eastern mood. Lee Jeong-hyun revealed that she personally created the costumes and shared stage sketches with the production team, impressing the judges.
Meanwhile, the final victory of the day went to Jo Kwon. His heartfelt storytelling, inspired by his dream of becoming a singer through Lee Jeong-hyun, and the overwhelming energy of his stage moved the judges' hearts. Jo Kwon received the trophy from Lee Jeong-hyun, basking in joy and glory with a bright smile.
This episode, 'Artist Lee Jeong-hyun', was praised for being like a comprehensive gift set for many fans as Lee Jeong-hyun returned as a singer after 10 years. The episode was enriched with behind-the-scenes stories connected to Lee Jeong-hyun's hit songs, as well as episodes about her love story and her daughter. In particular, the performances of her juniors, which went beyond simple tribute stages to incorporate new colors and concepts, delighted the eyes and ears of the audience.
'Immortal Songs', which creates legendary videos that viewers want to revisit every episode, airs every week at 6:05 PM.
[Lee Da-kyum, Star Today Reporter]
