The first holiday of the year 2025, the Year of Eulsa, is approaching. Like any other year, the holiday season is returning, but this year is a bit more special. There are 8 days off, excluding just one day.
Some will spend the long holiday reconnecting with family they haven't seen in a while, while others will spend their time on personal schedules, such as traveling. In any case, all of them are heading towards some destination or place. If they can enjoy songs that evoke various emotions such as excitement, happiness, and regret from the beginning to the end of their journey, it could make for a more fulfilling holiday.
The journey begins with singer Yoon Jong-shin. His song 'I’m Going to You', released in 2005, takes the lead. This track, the title of Yoon Jong-shin's tenth album 'Behind the Smile', plays an uplifting introduction. The melody starts with a piano tune, and Yoon Jong-shin's whispering vocals, as if they are coming from somewhere, build anticipation.
In fact, 'I’m Going to You' tells a sad story of reuniting with a lost lover. Yoon Jong-shin's poignant yet confident, and unembellished calm vocals inspire listeners to dream of new beginnings and actions. This song, which Yoon Jong-shin wrote and composed himself, is one of his masterpieces that has touched the hearts of the public for a long time.
Even if you don't want to listen, Yoon Jong-shin's lyrical delivery is so compelling that it adds to the emotional impact.
If you started with Yoon Jong-shin, to spend the long holiday days happily and warmly, he introduces Lee Sang-soon. If warmth and coziness are to be sung, his voice is perfect for it. He also captivates listeners with his raw, pure vocals that rival Yoon Jong-shin's.
Among his works, I recommend the single 'A Perfect Day', released last July. The lyrics reflect his daily life, making it incredibly comfortable.
"I hope tomorrow will be just like today. A perfect day with nothing more to wish for."
The subject of 'A Perfect Day' is Lee Sang-soon's wife, singer Lee Hyori, and their pet dog 'Guana'. It captures the comfortable and happy feelings that Lee Sang-soon experiences in his daily life. During this holiday, no matter where you listen, you will feel a sense of peace for 4 minutes and 40 seconds.
The voice that will conclude the holiday is from Naul, part of Brown Eyed Soul. The song is 'After You Left'. Originally by the 1990s band 'Light and Salt', this song has been remade by Naul, earning acclaim across a wider generation.
It is true that a great song is defined by its introduction. The intro filled with harmonies centered around Naul instantly captivates and sets the mood. The story of the song revolves around the aftermath of a breakup. While it sings about the process and memories of parting, the melody line, enhanced by drums, gives it a rather lively feel.
In terms of the holiday, it feels like saying goodbye to the last day of the holiday. It’s the feeling of having just stepped away from the gears of daily life and having to jump back into the fray. This is an emotion that everyone experiences. It’s always a bittersweet ending to the holiday.
"I think of the past memories (of the holiday) that I cannot erase. I walk this path alone, remembering the rain I walked in with you. After you left."
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
