Anyway, coming to the topic...a couple of people reached this blog by searching for the translated lyrics for A.R. Rahman's Hawa Sun Hawa (I always find those search terms interesting), and I thought for once I'd maybe go with that. I don't like the lyrics that much (they are quite romantic and mushy and steeped in love and yearning, but I usually dig the simple but deep kinds, and not too much of the dramatic, metaphorical type), but I know what its like to search for the meaning behind a lovely song. And as I wrote here, this song is definitely lovely, a Rahman masterpiece and I adore its music. I just hesitate to translate Hindi/Urdu songs myself mainly because so much is often lost in translation with these languages. You can't convey the same feel when you translate, regardless of how much you try to avoid losing its touch. But still, without further ado, here are translated lyrics. Feel free to use these anywhere, but it'd be good to credit moi.

Please note that no gender is specified for the most part in the song, so I've just inserted she or he based on if its Sonu or Alka singing. I've tried not to translate literally so its not too awkward, but also tried to keep as much of the original meaning as possible.

[audio http://www.hotlinkfiles.com/files/1589830_nz4rl/Ada-HawaSunHawa.mp3]

Hawa Sun Hawa, Ada. Composed by Rahman. Sung by Sonu Niigam and Alka Yagnik.

[Woh Kaun Hain/Woh Kahan Hai/Jise Dhoondhti Hain Nigahen/Woh Kaun Hai]

(Who is that/Where is she/The one my eyes are searching for/Who is that)

CHORUS: Hawa Sun Hawa/Usse Chooke Aa/Usse Chooke Aaja Zara/Kahan Hai Woh Itna Bata... (2)

(Wind, listen, wind/Go, touch that person/Just touch that person/Tell me where she is... )

STANZA ONE: Kaun Hai Yaad Jo Har Pal Aaye/Yaad Woh Aaye To Aake Na Jaaye, (2)

(Who is it that I think of in every moment/And when I do, I can't stop,)

Raaz Yeh Dil Ab Kisko Bataaye/Saamne Hai Woh, Nazar Na Aaye...

(Who should my heart tell this secret to?/She is right before me, yet I can't see her...)

Mujhko Kiski Aahaton Hai Chuya/Kaun Hai Woh Ey Hawa Tu Yeh Bata

(Whose movements have just touched me?/Who is this, can you tell me, Oh Wind?)

CHORUS: Hawa Sun Hawa....

STANZA TWO: Meri Sadaayen Tujhko Bulaye/Saamne Aaja/Oh Aaja Re Aaja Re... (2)

(My voice* calls out to you/Come before me/Come, come...)

*I don't know if this is the best way to interpret sadaayen here, which essentially means evocation.*

Mere Yeh Baahen Tujhko Pukaaren/Aaja Re Aaja Re Aa

(My arms call out to you/Come, come, come...

CHORUS: Hawa Sun Hawa...

[Woh Kaun Hai, Woh Kahan Hai]

((Who is that/Where is she)

STANZA TWO: Tujhse Miloongi Toh Tujhse Kahoongi/Tere Bina Main Reh Na Sakoongi (2)

(When I meet you, I will tell you/I won't be able live without you)

Chodo Udasi/Kyun Aankhen Nam Hai/Gaur Se Dekho To/Nazdeek Hum Hai

(Leave this sadness/Why are your eyes wet/If you ook carefully/You will find me near you)

Mujhko Kiski Aahaton Hai Chuya/Kaun Hai Woh Ey Hawa Tu Yeh Bata

(Whose movements have just touched me?/Who is this, can you tell me, Oh Wind?)

[Woh Kaun Hain/Woh Kahan Hai/Jise Dhoondhti Hain Nigahen...]

(Who is that/Where is she/The one my eyes are searching for...)

See what I mean (if you share my tastes)? Nothing that spectacular, and not very impressive on the lyrical front at all. But I guess that's where the magic of the musician and the singers comes in. Rahman makes it sound like a legendary ode, and gives these weak words a grandeur, and Sonu and Alka infuse the song with so much feeling and love and emotion that the listener is left mesmerized, in a way (even if you can't understand the lyrics, or so others have said). Anyway, I hope the people searching for the translation the other day come back to find this, and find it helpful!

Avengi Ja Nahin discusses more about love than Rabbi did, and is more 'direct' in a way. By that I mean this: in the first album, the songs discussed love but with a certain tragic quality (like the lost woman in Ishtihaar or the story of Heer-Ranjha, or even the sudden change in the lovely Tere Bin where the hero makes a significant realization about the woman who left ('giving up' or losing love). In this new album, the love songs are more direct, more open, and more flirtatious in a sense, as the lyrics proclaim confidence in the hero's love and lust. Therein lies an irony that confuses me about Rabbi's lyrics. The woman in his love songs (self-written or chosen) is always leaving, or teasing, or out of his reach while the words claim the pain and loss he has felt from her. Yet, other songs are on her side, proclaiming her beauty, her strength, or even giving her encouragement. Why the difference between his love stories and social narrations?

The title song, Avengi Ja Nahin (Will you come or not), is not my favorite by any means, but it has good music. Its almost a straight talk kind of song, where the lover demands his beloved if she will come or not, if she will return his love or not, or will she just leave him with empty promises? Challa is confusing to me, and I'm waiting for more clarification on its lyrics in which the challa (ring) becomes different things that hold meaning (there was an original version sung by Gurdas Mann, which I must also check out). Maen Bolia (I said), is one of the songs I mean when I talk about a confident love...it is a defiant, bold proclamation from a lover that says that he knows she loves him, she has the fever, and she will come to him. Another love song is dedicated to the mysterious girl from Karachi, who is beyond his reach, who he can never have because of many obstacles, yet who he knows yearns for him too.

That's it for the love songs, and while they are all quite good and Challa is gorgeous in its music, none of them caught me with as much force as the simple Tere Bin did from Rabbi. The others songs are my real favorites, and not just because of their larger meanings and greater symbolism, but because their lyrics are simple and the music is just right, complementing each word. This is kind of a talent that Rabbi has that ends up bringing the most out of the lyrics (thus creating the sensation by his working of a 16th century poem, Bulla).

Bilqis, or Jinhen Naaz Nahin, will stand out for everyone who is a fan of Rabbi's social commentary. It is a narrative that is based on the shocking true story of Bilqis Bano, the woman who was gangraped in the 2002 Gujarat riots and lost 14 members of her family (and still awaits justice from the courts in India, and goes on to describe other incidents of innocents wronged by the society we live in. And Rabbi demands through their voices that the people who have such pride in India, who like to boast and claim all is well in this nation and there is only growth and no problems, who are so nationalistic and jump at any criticism: where were you? Where were you and where are you when such horrendous crimes against humanity take place?

[audio http://www.hotlinkfiles.com/files/1679241_nak84/jinhennaazhai.mp3]

Bilqis (Jinhen Naaz Hai), Rabbi Shergill

Paghri Sambhal Jatta is a re-interpretation of a popular inspirational song for the Sikh youth, and I wouldn't be able to say much and as well as is written here on The Langar Hall which I found very interesting. http://thelangarhall.com/archives/352

Return to Unity, Rabbi's first full English song, I'm still chewing and pondering over, so thoughts on that will come at a later time. Tu Avin Bandra (You should come to Bandra) is a love song of sorts to Bandra, a part of busy, bustling Mumbai. I like the song for its music, its slow, laid back quality, and the almost smiling voice with which Rabbi sings "tainu idhar accha lagega (you'll like it here)." Its a very different song, and it creates an image of a hustling, bustling, complicated Bandra, one that I'm sure I'd appreciate more if I had spent any time there. The song, for some reason, makes me think of a big city on a wet, rainy day. I really couldn't tell you why, but its a nice image and makes me happy.

[audio http://www.hotlinkfiles.com/files/1679240_vpwbs/tuavinbandra.mp3]

Tu Avin Bandra, Rabbi Shergill

Now to my hands down favorite: Ballo, a simply lovely, amazing piece giving empathy and encouragement to a woman. It is beautiful because it seems to know, to have a very eerie sense of what it is really like to have the pain only a woman can have. It could be directed to a mother, a sister, a daughter, a wife, a distressed lover. Rabbi's soothing voice begins the song with words that acknowledge pain without being arrogant or patronizing.

[audio http://www.hotlinkfiles.com/files/1679242_sonlt/ballo.mp3]

Ballo, Rabbi Shergill

Main janda, tainu aaj/Peer hundi/Dil tere uthdi ek/Cheez

(I know today you/have pain/in your heart rises/a pang)

And goes on to further accept the fact that this is difficult, that the time, the events, the circumstances, are akin to storms, raging across your word. The next two stanzas describe the betrayal and struggle a woman feels when one she treasured, loved, showered affection on, is the one that causes her this pain, this suffocation, this trauma (and Rabbi maintains the gentle tone of, "yes I know its hard").

Main Janda Aunde/Din 'ch tufan kei/Kuch Sujda Na/Uddi ey reit

(I know in the day/arrive many storms/you can think nothing/and there's just sand)

Rakhdi ti jisne tu/Saambh Saambh/Ghut ghut seene naal/La

Kal jo si sohna/Sagna da haar tera/Ajj ban gia/Gall da o faah

(What you guarded/with great care/against your bosom/very close

What was yesterday/a lucky necklace/is today a noose/around the neck)

The chorus stanza comes next and is simply uplifting, and the music changes, complementing the tone, as it becomes encouraging, telling Ballo that all of this is karma, and this too will pass, as long she faces it with dignity and strength.

Ni Ballo/Ni Ballo/Gham khada/Ey tan lekha si/Karma da/Vekh lai jar lai/Ihnu khirhe mathhey/Beetaga sama/Hovange/Katthey

(O Ballo/O Ballo/Why this sadness/This is just cause/And effect/See it, feel it/Raise your chin/This time will pass/We shall be/Together)

The next stanzas couple stanzas hold the most meaning for me, and are quite powerful yet simple. Again, I am amazed by just the depth and feel, and how does one convey so much in such few words? And exactly what is needed to be said and heard?

Main janda dabbian tu/Kai yadan/Jo suttian na gaian/taithon

O aundian ne kandhan tapp/jadon meetein tun akhan/jadon laven foki mattan/maithon

(I know you buried/many memories/that you couldn't/throw away

They come climbing walls/when you close your eyes/or when you listen to my/empty advices)

See what I mean? I may be getting too excited in my love for this song, but I personally have the impression that for a lot of women, this song is almost like what Killing Me Softly describes (for those who are fans of that song). In a song being played, you hear and feel like your own emotions have been stripped open. Except Ballo is not just empathic but aims to say "Its okay, and you can't let this bring you down." Yes, it is a struggle, and yes, it is a constant fight within you. As the next stanzas describe, you constantly judge yourself, debate yourself, accuse and sentence yourself. You try to find your faults one day, and another day blame the one who hurt you; one day you attack yourself and blame it all on your own doings, another day its not you...and yet, there is never a resolution, it is never over.

Kardi ein nitt tu/Mukadma/Kardi ein tikhian/Jirha

Kade akhein dokhi/Kade kar devein bari/Par hovey na/Koi faisla

(Everyday you/Litigate/Everyday a sharp/Debate

Sometimes its guilty/Sometimes its innocent/But never a/Resolution)

Again, the chorus comes in, and tells Ballo to lift her chin up and face the time, because this will pass.

And the last stanzas are both empowering and desolate. Rabbi ends with words that leave you both saddened, and also strangely stronger.

Tera maseeha/Bane das kivein koi/Duniya sabh bhulli firdi

Khud varke tainu folne painu/Khud painde tainu chalne paine/Navein akhar gharne paine

(Who tell me/Can be your messiah/When all are as lost

You'll have to turn the pages yourself/You'll have to journey yourself/Shape your own script)

It is the truth, and it is delivered like a soft blow at the end of a motivational speech. Ballo, there is indeed only you. Only you can control your life, pick up the pieces, create your world and your journey, clean up the messes and answer your own questions. We are all lost beings, and we cannot guide each other, and while we feel pain and hurt by each other, we are all on an equal footing, just trying to make our way and live our life.

Rabbi Shergill has a way with words, and is one of the finest lyricists on the Indian music scene now. Listen to his songs, explore his music, and interpret and research his lyrics, and each song will become an experience in itself.

Avengi Ja Nahin is available on Amazon, on ITunes, and via Yash Raj Films. For lots more information on Rabbi and to stay updated on his works, visit Rabbism. For the story behind the album, downloads, and complete lyrics and translations (and to sample the tracks), visit http://ajn.co.in.

Avengi Ja Nahin, Rabbi Shergill

I'm a little late catching up to Rabbi's latest work, unfortunately, though he has been on my list of favorite singers ever since Jugni, Tere Bin and Ishtihaar reached my ears and their words (translated lyrics, because Rabbi usually sings in pure Punjabi) reached my mind. I caught a video of the title MV from his new album, Avengi Ja Nahin, and honestly wasn't drawn in and avoided it to prevent being disappointed, but recently I thought I'd atleast go back and check out the rest of the album. And I was very glad I did. Undoubtedly, Rabbi, the self-titled first album, will be my favorite, and in my opinion is the better one, for several reasons: Rabbi Shergill is fresh, passionate, strong, and in a very unique, independent spirit in Rabbi. Those were the songs that swept millions across the world, because you can sense his "I sing for myself" and "I am passionate about my music and nothing else" spirit in each of his songs. And, his sound of rock mixed with the sufi style was so new to the stale Indipop scene (which I'd all but given up, save for Kailash Kher), that Bulla Ki Jaana was literally a movement.

BUT...that doesn't mean Avengi Ja Nahin isn't a great album. Rabbi has stayed true to his soul and his passion and has created something quite wonderful. Italian maestro Mauro Pagani has produced the album, which was mostly recorded in Italy. Perhaps there is where my personal tastes are affected: I enjoyed Rabbi's initial effort because it seemed to come purely within him; it was, after all, self-composed and self-written for the most part (or self-interpreted with wonderful results). While this one is too, there has to be some influence by the producer, and that has both its advantages and disadvantages. But it is always great when artists venture into different territories, especially when that means actually going across borders. Avengi Ja Nahin, as a result, is a very unique album. The lyrics are, as expected, quite great for the most part (still prefer the first, Rabbi, for the lyrical power, too, though). I'll discuss those further later. The music, because of the international influence is rich in its diversity. A variety of instruments have been used, and creatively and expertly mixed. Ballo has a simple, constant beat in the background, placing emphasis on Rabbi's strong vocals, and it matches the spirit of the song. Bilqis is strong, heavy on the guitars, and Rabbi seems to narrate the song, appropriately. Challa has a laidback, acoustic feel to it, like its playing on some boat with a lonely man rowing it. You can listen to the songs, get the translated lyrics and read more about the story on its official site: http://ajn.co.in/

Yash Raj Films, who are distributing the album, have a wonderful review: http://www.yashrajfilms.com/News/NewsDetails.aspx?NewsID=fc087a10-8206-4144-b14d-d06898d3bf8c

I think its great that Rabbi provided these lyrics, appreciating the fact that the majority of his fan following is not that well-versed in Punjabi. Also interesting and fun to read: the one-line comments added by him as a footnote to the lyrics. They provide a very personal insight into the creation of these songs. I'd also have liked to hear a bit more on what lies behind his composing, i.e., what drives him to choose the subjects of his songs and what are his inspirations as he writes?

Avengi Ja Nahin is another great offering by a singer, rocker, composer and lyricist whose passion for music is transparent, and who knows how to use his gifts to reach the people. I admire Rabbi for his bold lyrics, his honesty and depth, as much as I love his songs for their powerful beats, rhythms, and the energy in every tone.

PS: If you are a Rabbi fan also, then you will find hordes of information and discussion on the unofficial Rabbi blog, http://rabbism.blogspot.com.

(I forgot and was late publishing this first post. Thus, discussion on the lyrics follows soon in a separate post)

One, I can't thank Javabeans enough for this post on Yi Sung Yol, its like a gift for us information-starved fans. http://www.dramabeans.com/2008/06/profilegiveaway-2-yi-sung-yol/

It has so much information on his music, his background with UMe&Blue, his personal journey and insight into his own music, and is just a fantastic read. Best of all, she translated 20 versus 30, one of my favorite songs. How amazing is that. I was so thrilled I think I shouted involuntarily (only a few artists can bring out the fan girl in me). And to top things off, I was a winner of the giveaway! Woooohhoooo! That means I get the first CD :) Thanks so much Javabeans! Please check out this article if you'd come here looking for information on him, I'm sure you'll appreciate it as much as I have.

Also, Mary R commented on one of my YSY posts (thanks!) and gave me some more news: http://www.kome-world.com/uk/article.php?id=142 He was awarded the Musician of the Year Award for In Exchange and also the Best Modern Rock Single at the Korean Music Awards. Yes! It pleases me that he's getting these awards and recognition: couldn't go to a better, more-deserving artist. His music just blows our minds away!

Two, I have yet to describe my trip to California, in which I had gallons of fun and was quite the traveler and adventurer. One of the best bits was our last-moment trip to Oakland to catch Summer Beats 2008, the amazing concert with Atif Aslam, Kailash Kher, Richa Sharma and Amanat Ali (who, I'm sorry to say, should have spent more time backstage observing his sunbaes than on stage). How do I begin? Amanat Ali wasted too much time. But then Richa Sharma struck just the right tone with Saawariya as she gracefully came on stage. Her Dama Dum Mast Kalandar was a bit too much the fourth time around (there really was no need, especially since it wasn't her song anyway), but she did a medley of some of her best intros (Jag Soona, etc). I wish they'd have cut her by just 2-3 minutes. Next tiny Kailash Kher with his big beautiful voice walks on. He was so short, I was totally not expecting that! But he makes up for what he lacks in height with his powerful voice. He picked great songs, starting with Sajna Tere Bina, going on to Chak De from Khosla ka Ghosla, and singing his two beautiful hits, Teri Deewani and Saiyyan (I'm so crazy with this song right now). The dancers were just amazing too, they did a beautiful, fitting sequence in Teri Deewani, making the whole song amazing. He got the audience involved, introduced his band Kailasa, and was so genial and funny that it was definitely worth it. He was probably the best performer of the night.

[audio http://www.hotlinkfiles.com/files/1524453_nwwmq/KailashKher_saiyaan.mp3]

Kailasa-Saiyyan (Jhoomo Re)

And then, onto the main event (atleast for me), but thanks to the stupid MC and Amanat, the rockstar of the night Atif Aslam only got like 25 minutes (and he was not happy about that). After commenting on the time he got right into it though, and kept it high energy the entire 25 minutes, ending rather abruptly. Atif is truly a rockstar, and he showed his colors. It was amazing. I always think that a concert is worth your money if you see something you'd never get on a good pair of speakers, and clearly Atif thinks the same (see, we're made for each other), because he did his most famous songs with variations, did guitar solos, threw in some crazy rockstar moves. Of course, to see him live and realize that the man actually is that damn good looking has its advantages to it too. And yes, when he lets go of his cool dudeness and smiles, it is so, so, worth it. (Hold on a minute while I reminisce...)

The big drawback: the sound quality was bad in the theatre. Atif sings really close to the mike (just like John Mayer and YSY: I see a pattern here!), and the sound system wasn't set up for that. As a result his words weren't clear, and sometimes there was feedback (not fun). When we did hear the words, it was interesting to note how different his enunciation is. He pronounces a lot of words with a strange accent, and a different emphasis, and really mouths them out. He's born and raised and educated in Pakistan, so I'm pretty sure that just comes from his singing style, he just likes to really throw his words out there, and enunciate each one. Its hard to explain, you just have to hear him/see him in concert, but its unexpected. Ofcourse, I'm totally biased so I take the positive spin on that :). He sang his most popular songs, but left out Woh Lamhe and Doorie, but I think that was on purpose because he was a little miffed at the time he was left (I can totally understand that too: wth was it with the extra time given to others??). Pehli Nazar Mein: when he began, I think my heart skipped a beat. He started from the first stanza and the audience went crazy. He did variations of Aadat, and sang Tere Bin, which was a huge hit too.

The man sure keeps his energy up, and he has some freaking amazing guitar skills. The whole band does, and I kind of wish he had introduced the rest, atleast given them names, because he had some great talent in that group. He did one or two slow songs too, which included the pretty Kuch is Tarah, but not enough. I'm such a big fan of his deep, strong voice that I would have really liked to relish that for atleast a couple more songs, rather than the heavy rock star music and guitaring. I mean, I definitely loved the musical extras he gave the audience, but I longed for a little bit more of his voice. When I got back home, though, I realized his new album Meri Kahani was out. So apart from planning our wedding, I spent some time checking that out. Its recieved more criticisms than his last album (Doorie), because he's totally changed his style. I didn't like Doorie as much (except the title track), so I barely paid attention to those criticisms, and yes, I was right, his new explorations do more for me. Atif has ventured out of his usual, comfort zone, of which many were getting tired, and tried something new and different for him and his voice.

You may not be able to tell with this title song, but perhaps this next song, my favorite one (a duet with a Pakistani female singer, SKJ), will throw more light.

[audio http://www.hotlinkfiles.com/files/1524344_iel1u/f_Aslam_-_Kaun_Tha__Kapkapi_.mp3]

Atif Aslam-Kaun Tha (Meri Kahani)

This album has quite a few slow songs (yes!), leaning towards acoustic, giving his voice and the lyrics more space than his previous songs tended to. Also, more emphasis is given to a subdued, understated quality of his voice than to the power alone. As in, while his previous hits have relied on his high notes, the throwing out of his voice, Meri Kahani doesn't do that as much, but tries to bring out the softness, huskiness and emotion in his voice. I've always felt Atif has a 'tragic' voice, which I find hard to explain, but its like that very first time you hear Aadat, or you hear Tere Bin, and you're immediately drawn because he plays directly on the listener's emotions. You feel his voice more, and the lyrics mean less. I'm not being fan-girly, because even when I don't like his songs, I can appreciate the depth of his voice. So Meri Kahani tries to prove that his voice has more than the deep, tragic, low facet...he has more talent than just stretching the note.

On the negative side, this means some of his songs are not as clear, he seems to mumble or they are just too soft to win over the guitar. Also, the strange accent troubles me a bit in this album, especially when he pronounces Tha (the word for was) as Ta. That just sounds wrong, especially with the female singer doing it the right way. I'm not sure why he does that, if its just a by product of enunciation or what. There are also some rock tunes, mainly the too-heavy-metal for me tune, Hungami Halaat, and Chor Gaye leans towards the usual rock and guitar numbers. I completely disagree with critics who claim the album is lacklustre or sounds similar throughout: I'm not sure which album they've been listening to. I think thats just backlash from disappointment, because most fans enjoy hearing the kind of music they love rather than watch their artist foray into different fields. The album has plenty of flaws, and some songs deserve to be reworked (like Humrahi, which goes along just beautifully until it suddenly changes its mind and decides not to be acoustic, and the whole tune gets changed, leaving the listener in a "whaaa" stance). But overall, being as objective as I can, I think Atif has taken some huge steps to explore his musical skills with this attempt as singer and songwriter and composer. The album is personal, a narrative that is more honest, open, and bolder than his previous work has been. His songs are varied, and cover a broad range, ranging from memories and childhood, to love, longing, loss to even a dialogue on man and society with Rabba Sacheya, an adaptation of Faiz Ahmad Faiz's Punjabi poem about man's expectations from God and the problems with society (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meri_Kahani). That isn't a weak effort or experiment, but an impressive attempt by a singer who, to be honest, doesn't need to work so hard to sell (his voice is enough to sell like hotcakes. Infact, every album he has sung a track for in recent times has been a hit in the Bollywood music industry alone). He may be indulging his personal tastes and his desires to expand his portfolio, and he makes some mistakes, but Atif Aslam has a very, very forgiving listener base, and with his truly impressive talent, he should be lauded for taking chances and forging into new territory.

And now I'm done reviewing music for the day. I have yet to go into Rehman's Ada, and rave some more about Atif Aslam. I'm considering posting some of my video from the concert, but between planning a wedding and planning my impending move to a new country, I unfortunately have less time for good ol' fan girlness. Pity.

[PS: I just heard from my chingu that other places weren't as lucky to have a good Summer Beats concert, and got some ol' fashioned swindling instead, with Raghav (Raghav????!) being pushed down throats. And the later concerts got cancelled because of Atif's visa problems (yes. Racial profiling at its best). I feel pretty darn lucky to have had a fairly decent concert, and a great time, albeit the beginning. If this happened to you, please don't let it put you off from attending future Atif Aslam or Kailash Kher concerts (when they are allowed into the country, and when the producers are able to get their act together). From my own experience I can say, they put on a damn good show, and its enjoyable and worth the money (a reasonable sum of money that a student may afford), and you take home more than just what you would have heard on your speakers. So atleast give 'em one more shot. 'Course, this comes from a completely biased source. :) )

Couple things to cheer me up/bring me up some:

1. Ingrid Michaelson (I discovered she's the one behind that really neat Old Navy commercial tune, apparently i'm way behind thousands of others who found her the same way..."if you are chilly...here take my sweater...cause I love the way you call me baby" :) ...and discovering a new artist is like opening a Christmas present)

2. Regina Spektor ( on the same note, though she's not really new, just new to me, again thanks to a JC Penney commercial which plays Music Box...and her music is now coming up everywhere...eccentric and strange in a good way. I recommend watching her very neat videos on youtube. Fidelity is a great song to start off with, listen to it 1-2 times and you'll be hooked. Also, side note, very intriguing accent)

3. The rain today which does wonders to calm me after a rough time.

4. Also Javabeans post on Tablo/Epik High, a subject that is always great to read/talk about:  freakin' amazing intelligent rappers with great music, whats not to love? (check out www.dramabeans.com)

5. Ben Stiller's new comedy The Heartbreak Kid, which is some crude, silly, stupid and often vulgar humor (kind of like the humor of Knocked Up), but a darn funny movie with no thinking or sense involved and without any connection to reality (as was Knocked Up, watch it if you haven't). A good pick-me-up for dire times, when you just need to laugh it up. But then I'm a Ben Stiller fan so I'm pretty biased (Zoolander: Have you ever wondered if there was more to life, other than being really, really, ridiculously good looking? PUAHAHHAHA...GOLD!) Interestingly, the blond actress (Malin Akerman) is very, very much like Cameron Diaz acting/behavior wise. Or was it just me? I kept thinking it was her.

If you're going through the blues like me or super duper stressed out like me or just overwhelmed with life right now, like me again, then I recommend some lavender or similarly calm smelling lotion, a cool pleasant drink you love, and some speakers to tune into Ingrid Michaelson's The Way I Am. I promise her voice and music does wonders. Or you could feed into the melancholiness (sometimes thats the way that helps) with Keep Breathing (available on ITunes, on the OST of Grey's Anatomy). Check out her MySpace page:

http://www.myspace.com/ingridmichaelson (check out an interesting discussion on her blog about her 'selling-out.' I really don't believe artists ever sell out unless they start changing up their music and style for business, but I know many people hate when indie artists start getting famous...fans of DMB, for example...its very cool of her to ask her fans, and there is some neat dialogue there about the subject)

And if you like what you hear: buy her music by picking up her CD Girls and Boys or purchasing through ITunes. I've purchased several, and no regrets. Each song is amazing in melody, arrangement, lyrics and her soothing unique voice. 

The Way I Am (Ingrid Michaelson. Girls and Boys)

[audio http://www.musicwebtown.com/samsoonah/playlists/46203/973838.mp3]

Gi Da Rim/기다림 (Waiting)

Credit: Fluxus Music Website, and Smarie7

I fell in love. I looked everywhere for more information, more videos, songs, anything...all in vain. He is scandalously underrated in the international korean music scene, from what I can tell. I don't have much information about his popularity in Korea itself (I'm hoping he's a legend there), but I was disappointed how little he's known outside, with the burgeoning Korean pop/rock/music industry which is blossoming each day and spreading across the world. Perhaps its the younger generations who haven't woken up to his work, or the mainstream k-pop is taking up all the waves. While groups like Loveholic are slowly making their way to the forefront and gaining widespread popularity, I guess it'll take time before the indie scene is truly appreciated and equally well promoted worldwide, as it deserves to be (there are some amazing indie artists in Korea).

I was frustrated at first with the apparent lack of popularity. Sadly, I've only met a couple people who share my complete fascination with his music and his voice. I finally decided that was a good thing. This man should rightfully be known all over the world, and perhaps one day he will, but till then I'm just glad to know about his music and relish it. 이 might never become mainstream or a big k-star (something tells me he doesn't want that either), but I think the low-profile and mysterious quality allows him to maintain the originality of his music. And I've also realized that the few who do cherish him have a fine taste in music, and their appreciation is not affected by any other factor but their genuine admiration of what he brings to music, and the rock scene. And then, isn't it said that the water from the most remote of springs is the sweetest?

I do wish I could learn more about who he is and what drives him as a musician, which is always fascinating to me. Until I can investigate it further (and perhaps a better hold on Korean and Hangul would help), I'm satisfied with understanding his music. His more popular songs are "Gi Da Rim" from the movie ...Ing, "Be My Love" from the hit k-drama My Lovely Samsoon where he sang for Clazziquai, and the song on the OST of the recent k-drama Que Sera Sera--"우리는 (Urinun: Us)," which will without fail be listed on my list of lifetime favorites. His second album, In Exchange, is a wonderful collection of modern rock. Its rock with a twist of something else, an indescribable quality. I have yet to listen to the first one (haven't been able to order it yet), but the second one has me mesmerized. I know I'm using all these big words, just trying to find more synonyms, but simple words don't seem to do any justice.

It is his voice that I love most. It is deep, masculine, and rich with emotion. I've always been a fan of singers who were able to bring emotion to their voice, and 이 does that to the extent that even though I don't understand a lot of the lyrics, I can feel the meaning of the songs by the raw emotion in his tone. His voice is melodious, but not in the typical way. I think there would be many who'd be turned off because its not the conventional voice. It has a mellowness to it, but at the same time it conveys strong feelings, a passionate tone, perhaps a tragic one at times when the lyrics demand it. Each time I listen to a song, especially the very beginning of my favorite, Urinun, I get this strange rush. My mood can immediately change when the song comes on my ipod and I'll be too caught up with his voice, the energy, the passion and feeling in the song to think about my own silly conflicts or worries.

이 is daring with his music. It traverses very different grounds. Just like indie groups like My Aunt Mary, or Loveholic, 이 stands on his own, completely different and incomparable. The music matches his voice...sometimes conveying a desperate urgency, sometimes a mellow calm, sometimes an adventurous energy. Its definitely has the alternative rock quality, but it never gets loud or exhausting to hear, never plays havoc on your eardrums. The beats are always rhythmic, the instruments play in perfect harmony. I especially love the guitar in several of his songs (please note this is my completely amateur opinion). He has been compared to Bono by several people, but I personally dislike drawing comparisons between musicians, especially legendary musicians. The following song is from an anime OST, Wonderful Days: 비상 BiSang (Fly High).

Credit: waseline21

이 often crosses over into English, using phrases and words as several other Korean musicians do, but it never sounds forced in or unnatural, and is not marred by any strange accent or mispronunciation. He incorporates that cross-language style in this next song, another favorite, 기억할게 | Gieokhalke (I will Remember). The MV is really neat and very well conceptualized, and this is the first time I finally saw the man behind the voice, though still shrouded in shadows. He's a true rockstar.

(I especially love the entrance and the final, soft, end (어디에: audhiye, which means where are you)).

Credit: Smarie7

And in this song, 시간의 끝 (Shigane kkut-Last Time), which also blows me away each time.

 But I can't let you get away....

[audio http://www.musicwebtown.com/samsoonah/playlists/46203/650040.mp3]

I could rave about 이 for another couple pages at the least, and if you ever ask me in person I could take you song by song and tell you the little details which have led me to admire and be awed by his music. I'm not a musician, and by no means do I have any kind of professional expertise, but as a music lover (understatement), I support 이 with complete confidence and devotion. There are musicians whom I'll rave about initially, and then I'll begin noticing flaws, certain inconsistencies, perhaps forced styles that take away from the true rhythm, or their music will just stop speaking to me. But from the first time I heard his music, I knew I'd always be a fan. Lovers of fine music, especially rock, deserve to hear 이, on an international level. I hope one day he reaches that zenith. For now I continue to hope that he'll keep growing and developing his work, expanding his horizons and maintaining his originality, and I'll keep being mesmerized by his voice.

[If you enjoyed the songs posted and felt a little bit of the magic, then you'll definitely love and cherish the albums. Support this amazing musician by buying his albums here: http://global.yesasia.com/en/PrdDept.aspx/code-k/section-music/pid-1004787256/.  I've always had great, quick service from YesAsia.]

PS: If you've heard 이 before and are already a fan, or heard him here and like what you heard, please share your thoughts! And if anyone knows more about 이 I would be grateful if you'd share (you can email me or leave a comment)! If his work just isn't your cup of tea, I'd be happy to hear your opinion, though I guess we'll never be the soul sharing, music loving, bosom buddies. ;)

"Based around the song writing partnership of Saira Hussain and Steve Ager and the musicianship of Jeevan Rihal   (harmonium/keyboards and additional vocals), Vikaash Sankadecha (percussion) and Emre Ramazanoglu (drums), Trickbaby has evolved into a genuinely unique band. Described as an East/West soundclash, Saira cites influences from modern Western music through to Bollywood movie classics. It is this unique blend of inspiration, and contemporary use of classic Indian instruments alongside modern production values that provide the basis of the Trickbaby sound"

It is unique. It is very original, very different, unpredictable, and their fusion really, really works well. I first heard their music on the soundtrack of Hyderabad Blues II by Nagesh Kukunoor, who has a tendency to pick up some really cool music and find awesome artistes. They became famous in India with the very popular soundtrack of Bluffmaster, with Tadbeer Se and the remake of Sabse Bada Rupaiya, though I prefer their other original music. Apart from Slipping, the music video of which is filmed on the GB synchronized swimming team, and is beautiful, my favorites are One Man and Sea of Stories very eclectic and quirky and wonderful.

All of these songs are on the OST of Hyderabad Blues II, and can be listened to here: http://www.musicindiaonline.com/music/hindi_bollywood/s/movie_name.6966 if you want to get a taste....

Other clips are on their official site, along with a video of Slipping.

Unfortunately, since I can't buy songs off the UK iTunes :( I only have one old, and not so beloved-by-me song, called Neelaa which I'll post up to give a small sense of what their music is like. I think their CD is extremely good and a great buy, if it was only sold in the US....like so many of my favorite artists, I'll just have to wait and try to get it imported....

[audio http://www.musicwebtown.com/samsoonah/playlists/46203/512722.mp3]
Neelaa, by Trickbaby

Now that I've derailed enough from the main point of this post--the song--let me try to get back to it. Slipping is simple, inspirational, very positive and at the same time not one of those grating "the world is shiny and pretty and you should be happy" positive, which I hate. It acknowledges the complications, the anxiety and weight of the world and living, and then simply states what we all know...to relish life, to find happiness, to live fulfilled and free, one has to believe. One has to have faith that things can change for the better, that life will take the right path, that we can get on "that comet" and do something different, something that tastes and feels fresh and hopeful. Saira's slightly hoarse and melodic voice adds to the effect...she sounds like she's smiling, in a dreamy haze, looking at brighter, hopeful times.

Here are the lyrics, from the official site, where you can find lyrics to all their songs from the CD "Hanging Around."

Slipping Through Your Fingers 

Hurrying to catch my comet
No destination shown - I wanna get on it
Taking a day trip from this tragic kingdom
Give myself a small safe taste of freedom

To live forever is my new fascination
Coming back’s my inspiration

A two-way choice. A cynic or believer
Make the wrong decision watch life slipping through your fingers

Worrying about my reputation
How I’m gonna get out this situation
Faith in control of my destiny
Nobody’s gonna get the better of me

To live forever is my new fascination
Coming back’s my inspiration

A two-way choice. A cynic or believer
Make the wrong decision watch life slipping through your fingers

There's so much left to explore, to come across, to find on my way to wherever I'm going. I'm inspired to experience, to live it, to believe that I can change my destiny to fulfill my needs and desires and hopes.

A two way choice, and I'm a believer :)

And watch the ending of Grey's, which let me tell you was pretty freaking shocking and unnerving. Left a lot of people unhappy. Not me so much, because I found out I didn't care about it as much after all, especially in this state of mind, but netizens are going crazy over it. I really got more of it when it was a roomie activity that we could bond over I miss my roomies :( I was sad that the wedding didn't work out, though, because we really thought they Christina and Burke really complemented each other in a nice way (we as in the AGO girls :) I hope you weren't too disappointed, O!). Seriously, they were good together, but the rumor of Isiah leaving has been going around for a while so I guess this makes it happen. Sandra Oh I really like, she's a great actress, the scene where she finally breaks down was pretty heart wrenching, even though I wasn't feeling anything else, she did a good job of showing how broken she was that everything was just gone, just like that, in a couple hours. "I'm free" was a strange thing to say, but I liked the "Damn it." Do we really all want to be free? I think as strong she was, I think a part of her was happy that she would be 'tied' down, so to speak, because she loved Burke. *Sighs* Sad. I also liked George, and I'm sad he failed the intern exam. It also scares me--so you basically have no other option than leaving? Wow. Intense. I missed the last couple eps, so I'm not sure who Lexi is but apparently its all the buzz. I think it'd be weird if they just started from scratch with new interns, I seriously don't think that would work.

Its good to be home. Its unbelievable to be pampered by your parents and have no chores (since i'm working sooo hard :) ) and its good to be with my soul sister (even though I miss the other ones!). She's the most inspiring individual in the world and I'm overstuffed with pride when I'm with her. She's a strong one and she'll make it through this, and I'm glad I can be a little help. I'm sure she'll kick ass on this exam. Its good to chit-chat and gossip while we study, its not so bad with her around, otherwise I was simply miserable and not getting anything done.

It is still very overwhelming though--everything that I've worked for in my life and everything that is still to come all seems to be lying on a very precarious cliff this month. ALL in this month. That idea is a little (understatement) scary. Anyway, lets quickly move off topic, as fast as possible.....*stops thinking* *brain comments sarcastically: yeah, right!*

So another thanks is in order to everyone who's been a lifesaver in giving me feedback on my PS copies. I'm so grateful. I wish I could name my first born child after all of you, but then I'd feel sorry for the kid with so many names. So I'll just say: THANKS! You already know you rock my world. Everyone's feedback has really, really been very helpful because I've got so many different perspectives.

All this deep introspection and literally vomitting my soul out to write this PS has led me to ask the eternal question again and again: Who am I after all? I can't describe myself to a group of adcoms who've never met me in a 5300 character limit. I'm so much, and yet so little. I'm filled with complexities and yet can be so simple. I'm everything I love and everything I hate. How do you really tell someone who you are?

And that thought brings me to one of my favorite songs. Rabbi Shergill's adaptation of the Sufi Saint Bulla Shah's Kafi. I find Rabbi Shergill to be one of my generation's best musical artistes. He is different, yet very earthy, very bold, and his music is exhilarating, pulsating and touching at the same time (I mean his debut album, Rabbi, I also like some of the tracks on his debut music director attempt-Delhi Heights). This song was all the crazy a couple years back, and I think it speaks a lot for the artist if he could bring a song from the 18th century and make it the talk of the town in the 21st century, with everybody looking up the lyrics. {***From the album Rabbi by Rabbi Shergill. Sample it on www.musicindiaonline.com***}

[audio http://www.musicwebtown.com/samsoonah/playlists/46203/445959.mp3]

Bulla Ki Jaana Main Koun?

(Bulla! I know not what I am) 

Bulla ki Jaana main kaun
Bulla ki Jaana main kaun 

Na main moman² vich maseetan³
Na main vich kufar⁴ dian reetan⁵
Na main pakan⁶ vich paleetan⁷

(Nor am I the believer in mosque)
(Nor am I in the rituals of the infidel)
(Nor am I the pure in the impure)

Na main andar bed-kitiban⁸
Na main rehnda bhang-sharaban⁹
Na main rehnda mast-kharaban

(Nor am I inherent in the Vedas)
(Nor am I present in intoxicants)
(Nor am I lost nor the corrupt)

Na main shadi na gamnaki
Na main vich paleetan pakeen
Na main aabi na main khaki

(Nor am I union nor grief)
(Nor am I intrinsic in the pure/impure)
(Nor am I of the water nor of the land)

Na main aatish na main paun
Bulla ki Jaana main kaun

(Nor am I fire nor air)
(Bulla! I know not what I am)

Na main arabi na lahouri
Na main hindi shahar nagouri
Na hindu na turk pashouri

(Nor am I Arabic nor from Lahore)
(Nor am I the Indian City of Nagaur)
(Nor a Hindu nor a Peshawri turk)

Na main bhet mazhab da paya
Na main aadam-havva jaya
Na koi apna naam dharaya

(Nor did I create the difference of faith)
(Nor did I create Adam-Eve)
(Nor did I name myself)

Avval-akhar aap nu Jaana
Na koi duja hor pachhana
Maithon na koi har syana

(Beginning or end I know just the self)
(Do not acknowledge duality)
(There's none wiser than I) 

Bulla ki Jaana main Kaun

I really love this artist--considered to be one of the most influential and best female rappers in Korea (I say arguably in the world, how many talented female rappers in any music industry can one name?). Her voice is amazing in both R&B and in hip-hop...it takes a completely different form each time. Its strong and powerful, and rich with emotion, in both styles. She is half African American and half Korean, and is fluent in both languages (raised in Korea). I just recently got hooked onto the single 잊었니 (Eehjuhnee, Did You Forget?) from her comeback 3rd album (after a 4 year hiatus). I can actually pick up a lot of the lyrics (yay me :P!), so I really do enjoy this song a lot, for its musical arrangement, T's really great voice, and the honesty of the emotion in the words..."Did you forget? Did you forget our happiness? Did you forget? Did you forget our love?"

[audio http://www.musicwebtown.com/samsoonah/playlists/46203/391425.mp3]

MV of the song, a little more confusing to me than the song itself.

And I really love this performance of one of her rap songs from the 3rd album, "KumEun Haengbok" (haengbok is happiness, but i don't know what kumeun is :( ). edit: Thanks to Lauren, I do know what KumEun is--Black. So the song is "black happiness."

 Its a really energetic performance, and there's a voice over (in English) by her dad....and I love these words

"Sometimes its hard to see all the good things in your life/And I know it hurts sometimes but you got to be willing to try/Sometimes its hard to see all the good things in your life/But you got to be strong and you got to hold on and LOVE YOURSELF!"

Well its Friday night (saturday morning) and I don't really have much to say. I'm almost done reading Little Dorrit. Charles Dickens was a genius, unparalleled, incomparable. Read Little Dorrit if you haven't. You won't regret it. Its not only a book with hundreds of life lessons, but its also extremely funny, comedy at its very best.

And so....Aja Aja! Coz I got to be strong and I got to hold on and love myself....  :)

And Music Web Town is back up! And to celebrate the weekend, I'll play one of my favorite, powerful, jazzy songs, by the wonderful group "Big Mama" (also discussed previously under Break Away). The video for this is pretty neat....there's four skinny, pretty women singing on a stage and everyone's jamming, but then you go backstage and you see the amazing voices are actually from these curvy, big, yet still gorgeous (in my opinion) women. These four ladies have amazing talent (I love all three of their albums), though they haven't recieved the publicity they should have got. I read that it stated in their contracts when the group was brought together that none of them could get plastic surgery or the band would disband. Thats pretty interesting. I think its great that they came out and were courageous to be unconventional in the Korean music industry, where most female singers have the typical pop star look.

Recently, the singers of Big Mama have lost a lot of weight and look truly gorgeous, and have come under a lot of flak for trying to "fit in." But I really think that their whole point all along is that its not about how they look, its about their music. Their voices and their talent and their ability to make truly rich music. They haven't "sold out," they've just tried to look better for themselves, its every woman's decision to be who she wants and how she wants to look. Every woman must come to love herself, her own body, and embrace it. If they worked out and lost weight, and became healthier, how is that a bad thing? And who is anyone else to judge? The important thing is that they have never compromised on their music, or compromised with their talent. Their voices have always been true to their songs. The "BIG" in Big Mama isn't their physical size, but the abstract size of their talent and their vocal power, in my opinion.

 This song, when it first came out, mesmerized people across the world, literally, from what I've heard/read about it (check out reviews online). It was played on MTV Asia. I love the beat and the music and the emotion in their voices. "Break Away/No I can't wait/I'll make my way/I'll throw my pain/I can live without you now" are some of my all time favorite lines, though I don't like the rest of the lyrics as much. 

[audio http://www.musicwebtown.com/samsoonah/playlists/46203/373701.mp3]

Break Away, Big Mama, from Volume 1-Like the Bible

Leave me now..
Forget everything now
Throw me away and live..
Return my love that you took

If you left, if you died
Then I would hold it in forcefully
But to take it like this, its too hard

I hope just once that you will see me
That you will tell me
Just like the past times, just once..
I waited and loved you so much..

*Break away.... no I can't wait
I'll let you go comfortably
I'll make my way I throw my pain
I can live without you now

I left you so my heart is comfortable
I left you so I am happy
I threw you out of my heart
For you, I erased the hard days

Even if you see me accidently
Then please just pass by
For me who is trying to forget you
And if you talk to me
I will pretend I dont know you

repeat *

Suddenly I think of you
When I forgot that you left..
Even if I find you,
You pretend that you dont know saying "who is this.."
And you make me turn back again

I'll make my way I throw my pain
I cant live again looking at you
Break Away....no I can't wait
Now throw all of me away and leave

I'll make my way I throw my pain
So say that you werent there since the beginning
Break Away

(Translation credited to gyool, from http://www.aheeyah.com)

PS: Its Friday the 13th!

Here's a guy who followed his dreams and made it happen....its inspiring enough, and consider how brave he was to leave Stanford and struggle for years. He never knew if it would work out or not, and all odds were against him, but he kept trying and trying and trying. And he made it! Musicians have the most inspiring stories, don't you think?
Music always speaks to me, makes me think it'll all be okay. I have a song for every mood (more than one), and when I'm in that mood that song speaks straight to me, lifts me up or brings me down or makes me happy/angry/insecure/satisfied....no matter what, it gives me support, so I get what Tablo is saying. It gives me support to follow my own dreams, no matter how far they lie, and no matter how much I have to fight to get there. Aja Aja!

On a side note, David Choi is the new kid on the block and his voice/music is amazing. The singer/songwriter was recently signed by Warren Chappell (yup, huge label) and was featured on YouTube, where his music first started going out. Get on the wave, because this guy will get famous soon. I think he's worked hard too, and he does have some great talent. http://www.myspace.com/davidchoimusic
Feb 19 was the one day for music downloads, and I got them! :)

And Corinne Bailey Rae is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Breathtaking voice, and beautiful music. Calms me down and makes me smile. Check out this phenomenal performance by 3 of my favorites: John Legend, John Mayer, and Corinne Bailey Rae at the Grammys. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhJKSseiPXE

****Put Your Records On****
Three little birds, sat on my window.
And they told me I don't need to worry.
Summer came like cinnamon
So sweet,
Little girls double-dutch on the concrete.
Maybe sometimes, we've got it wrong, but it's alright
The more things seem to change, the more they stay the same
Oh, don't you hesitate.

*Girl, put your records on, tell me your favourite song
You go ahead, let your hair down
Sapphire and faded jeans, I hope you get your dreams,
Just go ahead, let your hair down.

You're gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow.
Blue as the sky, sunburnt and lonely,
Sipping tea in the bar by the roadside, (just relax, just relax)
Don't you let those other boys fool you,
Got to love that afro hair do.
Maybe sometimes, we feel afraid, but it's alright
The more you stay the same, the more they seem to change.
Don't you think it's strange?

*Girl, put your records on, tell me your favourite song
You go ahead, let your hair down
Sapphire and faded jeans, I hope you get your dreams,
Just go ahead, let your hair down.

You're gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow.
'Twas more than I could take, pity for pity's sake
Some nights kept me awake, I thought that I was stronger
When you gonna realise, that you don't even have to try any longer?
Do what you want to.

*Girl, put your records on, tell me your favourite song
You go ahead, let your hair down
Sapphire and faded jeans, I hope you get your dreams,
Just go ahead, let your hair down.

Oh, you're gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow

What I'm Listening To: Like a Star, Corinne Bailey Rae

Break Away....


Powerful singing. Four beautiful women. Amazing voices.

Another reason to pick up that Hangul.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Mama_%28group%29

What I'm listening to: Woman, by Big Mama