About Universal Records

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Quezon City, Philippines
Universal Records is the NUMBER ONE independent record label in the Philippines. Bringing you quality music for the past 30 years, we are home to artists like: Jose Mari Chan, Gary Valenciano, Ogie Alcasid, Regine Velasquez, Lani Misalucha, Jed Madela, Christian Bautista, Jay R, Billy Crawford, Kris Aquino, Edu Manzano, Marian Rivera, Mark Herras, Nina, Ronnie Liang, Gail Blanco, Sam Concepcion. Our band roster includes: Parokya Ni Edgar, Kamikazee, Sponge Cola, Imago, Silent Sanctuary, Kenyo, Paraluman. We are equally committed to bring you exciting international releases covering various genres like pop, jazz, new age, classical, alternative, indie pop, rock, electronica, dance, r&b, and hip-hop. Name it, we definitely have it!

June 30, 2011

Maki-Tambay Sa Sponge Cola | Finalists spotlight for today: TB11, TB6 and TB15


Our featured finalists for today: TB11, TB6 and TB15.

We've also included a brief description of each video to help you remember the video. Watch each of them and remember to vote for your choice!

Entry submitted by L. Bañez: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMpu0qoeveU
What to remember in TB11: stalker girl
To vote for L. Bañez’s video, text only this keyword (no space in-between):  TB11
Then send to 2600.



Entry submitted by R. Bejar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JD-JxeRxxPQ
What to remember in TB6: a "serious" love story
To vote for R. Bejar’s video, text only this keyword (no space in-between):  TB6
Then send to 2600.



Entry submitted by C. Infante: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXywefniecs
What to remember in TB15: secret crush
To vote for C. Infante’s video, text only this keyword (no space in-between):  TB15
Then send to 2600.


*Please note that the 15 Finalists themselves ARE NOT allowed to vote. System will invalidate their number and text if they send in a vote.*

We will post the latest tally of text votes every few days on our social networking sites:
- Facebook Fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/universalrecordsphfanpage
- Blogger: http://universalrecph.blogspot.com/
- Multiply: http://universalrecph.multiply.com/journal
- MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/universalrecph/blog

Final judging of P100,000 Grand Prize Winner and P20,000 Runner Up will be based on 70% Text Votes and 30% Panel of Judges’ Decision. Announcement of Grand Prize Winner and Runner Up will be on July 8, 2011.

If there are any questions, you can call the Universal Records office at 373-9091 during office hours, or you can email us at: spongecola.tambay@gmail.com.

Per DTI-NCR Permit # 2449. Series of 2011.

June 29, 2011

Maki-Tambay Sa Sponge Cola | Finalists spotlight for today: TB10, TB4 and TB2


On spotlight today:  TB10, TB4 and TB2.

We've also included a brief description of each video to help you remember the video. Watch each of them and remember to vote for your choice!

Entry submitted by Q. Romero: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7TnlGsd9VA
What to remember in TB10: for a friend
To vote for Q. Romero’s video, text only this keyword (no spaces in-between):  TB10
Then send to 2600.



Entry submitted by R. Orpano: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjpVwLA-g8w
What to remember in TB4: barkada time
To vote for R. Orpano’s video, text only this keyword (no spaces in-between):  TB4
Then send to 2600.



Entry submitted by C. dela Cruz: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FolT-t5mLI
What to remember in TB2:  356 pictures
To vote for this C. dela Cruz’s video, text only this keyword (no spaces in-between):  TB2
Then send to 2600.


Second Update on Text Votes for Sponge Cola Video-Making Contest


Hi there! Here's your second look into the latest tally of text votes for Sponge Cola Tambay video-making contest "Maki-Tambay Sa Sponge Cola".


Leading the votes is TB15 with an outstanding 32.51% of total votes received since start of voting period. It is then followed by TB10 and TB6 with 11.83% and 10.09% respectively.

All votes have been double-checked for accuracy.

TB1 (J.Villar): 4.85%
TB2 (C.dela Cruz): 3.26%
TB3 (J.Fernandez): 2.62%
TB4 (R.Orpano): 1.88%
TB5 (R.Po): 4.29%
TB6 (R.Bejar): 10.09%
TB7 (K.Prago): 0.45%
TB8 (K.Syfu): 0.04%
TB9 (A&A Oppus): 8.30%
TB10 (Q.Romero): 11.83%
TB11 (L.Bañez): 5.84%
TB12 (R.Saquido): 3.67%
TB13 (M.Ramirez): 9.33%
TB14 (M.Lu): 1.01%
TB15 (C.Infante): 32.51%

*Please note that the 15 Finalists themselves ARE NOT allowed to vote. System will invalidate their number and text if they send in a vote.*

We will post the latest tally of text votes every other day on our social networking sites:
- Facebook Fanpage:  http://www.facebook.com/universalrecordsphfanpage
- Blogger:  http://universalrecph.blogspot.com/
- Multiply:  http://universalrecph.multiply.com/journal
- MySpace:  http://www.myspace.com/universalrecph/blog

Final judging of P100,000 Grand Prize Winner and P20,000 Runner Up will be based on 70% Text Votes and 30% Panel of Judges’ Decision. Announcement of Grand Prize Winner and Runner Up will be on July 8, 2011.

If there are any questions, you can call the Universal Records office at 373-9091 during office hours, or you can email us at: spongecola.tambay@gmail.com.

Per DTI-NCR Permit # 2449. Series of 2011.

June 28, 2011

Sponge Cola Contest | Finalists spotlight for today: TB9, TB1 and TB5


Hi boys and girls! Every day we will choose 3 random finalist videos of the Sponge Cola video-making contest to highlight. Yesterday it was TB12, TB8 and TB14. Today we have TB9, TB1 and TB5.

We've also included a very short description of each video to help you remember it. Enjoy watching and remember to vote for your choice!

Entry submitted by A&A Oppus: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_Oc--Hffac
What to remember in TB9: animation comes to life
To vote for A&A Oppus’ video, text only this keyword (no spaces in-between):  TB9
Then send to 2600.



Entry submitted by J. Villar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTnGlbtc-PA
What to remember in TB1: frisbee, tambay moderately
To vote for J. Villar’s video, text only this keyword (no spaces in-between):  TB1
Then send to 2600.



Entry submitted by R. Po: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgP6VtVMosI
What to remember in TB5: secret boyfriend
To vote for R. Po’s video, text only this keyword (no spaces in-between):  TB5
Then send to 2600.


June 27, 2011

Sponge Cola Contest | Finalists spotlight for today: TB12, TB8 and TB14


Hi boys and girls! Every day we will choose 3 random finalist videos of the Sponge Cola video-making contest to highlight every day.

We've also included a very short description of each video to help you remember it. Enjoy watching and remember to vote for your choice!

Entry submitted by R. Saquido: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jy7lnzUspuM
What to remember in TB12: tansan
To vote for R. Saquido’s video, text only this keyword (no spaces in-between):  TB12
Then send to 2600.



Entry submitted by K. Syfu: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKecX6EyQlM
What to remember in TB8: airport
To vote for K. Syfu’s video, text only this keyword (no spaces in-between):  TB8
Then send to 2600.



Entry submitted by M. Lu: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGCMTnaW2Lc
What to remember in TB14: poster
To vote for M. Lu’s video, text only this keyword (no spaces in-between):  TB14
Then send to 2600.



First Tally of Votes for Sponge Cola Video-Making Contest


Hey peeps! Here's your first peek into the tally of text votes for Sponge Cola Tambay video-making contest "Maki-Tambay Sa Sponge Cola":

TB1 (J.Villar):  7.27%
TB2 (C.dela Cruz):  5.93%
TB3 (J.Fernandez):  3.26%
TB4 (R.Orpano):  2.30%
TB5 (R.Po):  3.89%
TB6 (R.Bejar):  17.55%
TB7 (K.Prago):  0.84%
TB8 (K.Syfu):  0.04%
TB9 (A&A Oppus):  9.19%
TB10 (Q.Romero):  13.33%
TB11 (L.Bañez):  2.42%
TB12 (R.Saquido):  6.10%
TB13 (M.Ramirez):  13.87%
TB14 (M.Lu):  1.42%
TB15 (C.Infante):  12.58%

*Please note that the 15 Finalists themselves ARE NOT allowed to vote. System will invalidate their number and text if they send in a vote.*

We will post the latest tally of text votes every few days on our social networking sites:
- Facebook Fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/universalrecordsphfanpage
- Blogger: http://universalrecph.blogspot.com/
- Multiply: http://universalrecph.multiply.com/journal
- MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/universalrecph/blog

Final judging of P100,000 Grand Prize Winner and P20,000 Runner Up will be based on 70% Text Votes and 30% Panel of Judges’ Decision. Announcement of Grand Prize Winner and Runner Up will be on July 8, 2011.

If there are any questions, you can call the Universal Records office at 373-9091 during office hours, or you can email us at: spongecola.tambay@gmail.com.

Per DTI-NCR Permit # 2449. Series of 2011.

June 22, 2011

The 15 Finalists to the Sponge Cola Video-Making Contest have been chosen! Vote now!


The 15 Finalists of the Sponge Cola video-making contest “Maki-Tambay Sa Sponge Cola” have now been chosen. Text voting for each of the entries is now open.


To vote, just text the keyword to 2600 – number is valid on all networks.

Each text vote costs P2.50. You can vote as many times as you want. Voting starts now and ends on 11:59 PM of July 7, 2011.

Vote for your favorite finalist now!

Entry submitted by J. Villar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTnGlbtc-PA
To vote for J. Villar’s video, text:  TB1
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by C. dela Cruz: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FolT-t5mLI
To vote for this C. dela Cruz’s video, text:  TB2
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by J. Fernandez: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BWNQ2EF7sM
To vote for J. Fernandez’s video, text:  TB3
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by R. Orpano: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjpVwLA-g8w
To vote for R. Orpano’s video, text:  TB4
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by R. Po: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgP6VtVMosI
To vote for R. Po’s video, text:  TB5
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by R. Bejar: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JD-JxeRxxPQ
To vote for R. Bejar’s video, text:  TB6
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by K. Prago: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrxCVVa2S4I
To vote for K. Prago’s video, text:  TB7
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by K. Syfu: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKecX6EyQlM
To vote for K. Syfu’s video, text:  TB8
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by A&A Oppus: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_Oc--Hffac
To vote for A&A Oppus’ video, text:  TB9
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by Q. Romero: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7TnlGsd9VA
To vote for Q. Romero’s video, text:  TB10
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by L. Bañez: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMpu0qoeveU
To vote for L. Bañez’s video, text:  TB11
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by R. Saquido: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jy7lnzUspuM
To vote for R. Saquido’s video, text:  TB12
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by M. Ramirez: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3Md9OHQHjc
To vote for M. Ramirez’s video, text:  TB13
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by M. Lu: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGCMTnaW2Lc
To vote for M. Lu’s video, text:  TB14
Then send to 2600.


Entry submitted by C. Infante: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXywefniecs
To vote for C. Infante’s video, text:  TB15
Then send to 2600.


*Please note that the 15 Finalists themselves ARE NOT allowed to vote. System will invalidate their number and text if they send in a vote.*

We will post the latest tally of text votes every few days on our social networking sites:
- Facebook Fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/universalrecordsphfanpage
- Blogger: http://universalrecph.blogspot.com/
- Multiply: http://universalrecph.multiply.com/journal
- MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/universalrecph/blog

Final judging of P100,000 Grand Prize Winner and P20,000 Runner Up will be based on 70% Text Votes and 30% Panel of Judges’ Decision. Announcement of Grand Prize Winner and Runner Up will be on July 8, 2011.

If there are any questions, you can call the Universal Records office at 373-9091 during office hours, or you can email us at: spongecola.tambay@gmail.com.

Per DTI-NCR Permit # 2449. Series of 2011.

June 20, 2011

Submission of Entries to “Maki-Tambay Sa Sponge Cola” promo is now CLOSED.



Submission of entries is now closed. Thank you to all those who sent in their entries!

We will be announcing the 15 Finalists on the evening of June 21 (Tuesday). Watch out for it!

June 19, 2011

Jed Madela to invade Malaysia!




World Champion Jed Madela will visit Malaysia from June 22 - 28 to promote his Bahasa duet "Antara Kita" with Malaysian artiste Nikki Palikat. "Antara Kita" is based on the Filipino hit "Kailangan Kita."

Jed and Nikki will perform live at the Hard Rock Cafe Kuala Lumpur (June 23 / 10 PM), One Borneo (June 24/7:30 PM) and Karamunsing (June 25 / 3.30 PM) at Kota Kinabalu, and the Eastern Plaza (June 26 / 3 PM) at Tawau. They will also promote together on Malaysian TV, various radio stations and malls. Watch out for them all around Malaysia!

Jed's tour dubbed "DiGi Jelajah Sabah 2011 Jed Madela & Nikki" is sponsored by Malaysian telecom company DiGi.

Noel Cabangon’s new album "Panaginip" out on June 24



Universal Records is proud to present Noel Cabangon’s latest album "Panaginip" featuring the launching single of the same title. The album is the follow-up to Cabangon’s previous album and first under Universal Records “Byahe”, which stayed as the Number one album in major record stores for 17 weeks en route to being certified Platinum. Panaginip boasts of 15 tracks consisting of 4 covers and 11 original compositions of Cabangon. The album was recorded at Sound Creation with major musical arrangers Bob Aves, Fred Garcia, Ria Villena-Osorio, Simon Tan and Ito Rapadas.

The album was inspired by Sting’s performance with the Royal Philharmonic in Berlin. “People tend to know me more as an acoustic performer,” says Cabangon. “This time, this album is mostly done with a full band with orchestral arrangements.”

Why "Panaginip" as the album title? “Dahil lahat ng kanta ay nagmumula sa imahinasyon. Ang mga awit ay tula, ang mga tula ay awit. Ang mga awit ay likha ng malayang panaginip. Ang panaginip ay likha ng malayang isip,” says Cabangon. “Ang pag-iimagine ay malaya, wala naming nagbabawal sa iyo.” While it may appear that "Byahe" turned to be the biggest selling album of Cabagon’s career mainly because of the great cover songs, Cabangon bravely takes the road less traveled with an album comprised mainly of original songs.

“It’s a bit risky, kasi sa panahon ngayon ‘in’ pa rin ang covers”, says Cabangon. “Byahe" was an overwhelming success because the advantage was it had very familiar songs. But Universal Records is behind me. It is called "Panaginip" because it’s a challenge for a songwriter is for his creation to be heard. Kailangan tayo gumawa ng bagong originals. We have to move forward and write more songs. For the songs in this album hinahanap ko yung elegance ng mga hit songs. As songwriters, we need to challenge ourselves into creating a brilliant concept and to become brilliant songwriters na di natin makita sa mga new songs, walang sophistication and elegance. We should try to write lyrics that are poetic without becoming too deep. We need to challenge our listeners. Kailangan makadagdag na rin tayo to the rich anthology ng Philippine music.”

Noteworthy original songs include collaborations with former Sugarfree frontman Ebe Dancel (“Hulog Ka ng Langit”) and Diamond soul siren Nina (“Ikaw Na Sana”). Other impressive new songs include the aforementioned title track “Panaginip”, as well as “Dahan Dahan”, “Bayani ng Bayan”, “Ngayon ang Bagong Simula”, the hip-hop flavored “Walang Katulad” and the haunting “Awit ng Naghahanap”, a heart-wrenching tune inspired by victims of political killings. Three longtime original songs from Noel Cabangon are also included in the album (“Sana Dumating Ka na”, “Dahil Nariyan Ka” and the '80s inspired “Umuulan sa Tag-araw, Umaaraw sa Tag-Ulan”).

Of course, the covers are still there: “Bulag, Pipi, Bingi” (grand prize song of the 2nd Metropop Music Festival, originally performed by Freddie Aguilar), the Heber Bartolome classic “Tayo’y Mga Pinoy”, “Tag-Ulan” by Lolita & The Boys and the Pete Lacaba/Ding Achacoso-written “Sangandaan”, which gained attention from the Mike De Leon classic film "Sister Stella L".

With his new album, Noel Cabangon is once again ready to sing about us and his dreams for all of us.

“This album encapsulates my dreams for my country, my fellowmen and my friends,” says Cabangon. “It’s one big challenge to do well primarily on original songs but this is one of the challenges that is worth working hard for, para mabigyan buhay ang bayan.”

“Panaginip” tracklisting:
1. Bulag, Pipi, Bingi
2. Dahan Dahan Lang
3. Hulog Ka Ng Langit with Ebe Dancel
4. Sana Dumating Ka Na
5. Ikaw Na Sana with Nina
6. Dahil Nariyan Ka
7. Sangandaan
8. Panaginip
9. Walang Katulad
10. Tag-Ulan
11. Tayo’y Mga Pinoy
12. Awit Ng Naghahanap
13. Umuulan Sa Tag-Araw, Umaaraw Sa Tag-Ulan
14. Bayani Ng Bayan
15. Ngayon Ang Bagong Simula

Join Noel Cabangon Official Facebook Fanpage:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Noel-Cabangon/24480530877

Follow Noel Cabangon on Twitter: http://twitter.com/noelcabangon


Parokya ni Edgar "Pangarap Lang Kita" music videos (2nd & 3rd versions)


3rd and 2nd version - side by side:


3rd version (feat. Vinci Montaner):


2nd version (feat. Happee Sy):

Parokya Ni Edgar's CD "Middle-Aged Juvenile Novelty Pop-Rockers


Sometimes there comes a point in time when you’ve reached your place in the scheme of things and accept yourself for what you are because amidst the criticism is the plain truth that you have exceeded expectations and have reached way beyond your wildest dreams. Such is the case with Parokya Ni Edgar. The unbeatable team of drummer Dindin Moreno, vocalist Vinci Montaner, guitarists Darius Semana and Gab Cheekee, bassist Buwi Menesses and lead vocalist Chito Miranda may just be Middle-Aged Juvenile Novelty Pop Rockers to the musical snobs but for the rest of the country they are the Pambansang Banda ng Pilipinas.

Universal Records proudly announces the release of Parokya’s 8th proper album (excluding one Christmas album, one live album and one retrospective Greatest Hits album) entitled – what else? – "Middle-Aged Juvenile Novelty Pop Rockers". The album features 15 tracks, including the lead single “Paki-Usap Lang (Lasingin Nyo Ako)”, which in the tradition of one of PNE’s biggest hits “Inuman Na” is a catchy pop-rock ode to friendship and the world’s biggest pastime – beer.

The album marks the third year since the release of their previous album Solid which was followed by a heavy three years of touring not only in the country but overseas as well.

Compared with the devil-may-care attitude that guided the making of Solid, their new album is a return to the basics which gave their debut album Khangkhungkernitz the powerful appeal that still holds today. "Middle-Aged Juvenile Novelty Pop Rockers" is a return to the jokes and a return to the love songs (which the band admits Solid had little to none of). The album was produced by lead vocalist Chito Miranda.

Parokya Ni Edgar’s new album has a lot of memorable pop rock songs to offer. Opening track “Original Song” and “One Hit Combo” featuring Gloc-9 dwells on the delights of creating music and forming a band. Humor abounds in tracks such as “Orange”, the Vinci-led “Red Pants” and “Walong Baso” (a hilarious reminder for us to drink 8 glasses of water a day). PNE's rich list of hit love songs such as “Halaga” and “Harana” will surely be added on by the promising love songs in MAJNPR: the K-Pop parody “Pangarap Lang Kita” featuring Happee Sy and the heartbreaking acoustic number “Ok Lang Ako”. Another noteworthy track in the album is the tender acoustic ditty “Lolo Bye”, written by guitarist Darius Semana.

Parokya Ni Edgar’s "Middle-Aged Juvenile Novelty Pop Rockers" is available at all leading major record bars under Universal Records.

Christian Bautista "Love Moves In Mysterious Ways" music video




To vote for the MV, type in:
MYX request Love Moves In Mysterious Ways
and send to 2366.

For Ringback tone:
Globe users, text UC016 to 2332
Smart users, text FLVM to 2728


Universal Records Facebook Polls: cast your votes now!


Cast your votes and/or comments in various polls running within our Universal Records Facebook Fanpage:

Who's Your Favorite After School member?
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150387687470414.618437.214540185413

f(x) red hot photos for "Hot Summer". Who's your fave?
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150659093920414.705042.214540185413

Who's your favorite f(x) member?
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150633425240414.695798.214540185413

Which Parokya Ni Edgar "Pangarap Lang Kita" music video do you like?
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150664521905414.706789.214540185413



MNET ranks Top 20 "Idols From Mars"



Earlier this month we reported on Mnet's ranking of the top 20 idol dancers, focusing on their smooth moves and strong dancing abilities. However, Mnet's most recent ranking focuses on an entirely different aspect of our favorite idols.

On June 16, Mnet revealed its rankings for the top 20 "idols from Mars," based on their personalities that are so interesting and unique that they could very well be from another planet.

Take a look at the rankings below:
1. Super Junior's Heechul
2. SS501's Hyunjoong
3. MBLAQ's Mir
4. KARA's Gyuri
5. TVXQ's Changmin
6. SNSD's Tiffany
7. 2PM's Taecyeon
8. f(x)'s Victoria
9. ZE:A's Kwanghee
10. Super Junior's Siwon
11. 2NE1's Bom
12: SNSD's Jessica
13. f(x)'s Sulli
14. 2AM's Jokwon
15. Secret's Sunhwa
16. Big Bang's Seungri
17. After School's Kahi
18. SHINee's Onew
19. Girl's Day's Minah
20. Shinhwa's Eric

SNSD, f(x), and Super Junior all had two members on the list. Do you agree with the ranking? If not, who do you think should be on it?

Source: Oumae24
Posted by mikeii @ Koreaboo

Koreaboo | G-Dragon is preparing for his next solo album?


In August of 2009, G-Dragon released his first studio album, "Heartbreaker." The album consisted of ten songs, with the lyrics written entirely by G-Dragon himself, except for the song, "The Leaders," which was a collaboration track between G-Dragon, Teddy, and CL (2NE1).

Almost two years later, G-Dragon shared in a magazine interview his thoughts on the album, "Heartbreaker," and his plans for the future. G-Dragon participated in an interview with "Fans World" 2011 No. 10 Magazine.

Check out his responses below!

Question: Over two years ago, you released "Heartbreaker." You said, "I'm not an idol, but a symbol." Now, looking at Big Bang's concepts, it looks like you're trying to break the "idol image."

G-Dragon: The views people had of us within out two year and three month hiatus changed. During that period, I think that "idols" changed to a term that is now used for younger idols. We are all getting older, and it is kind of embarrassing for us to still be called "idols." Maybe it is time that we were called "musicians" instead of "idols."

Question: Your first album, "Heartbreaker," had a lot of controversies that surrounded it. What is your response to that?

G-Dragon: One day while driving, I played the entire album one more time. I felt guilty about it. I was really confident then that albums to me were like my diary. When I became sixty or seventy years old, I would be able to listen to it an know what I was thinking about and who I loved during that time period from the lyrics I wrote. Now I find that the idea of using my diary for an album concept was too impulsive. I could have done better with it if it wasn't so impulsive of a concept. Currently, I am preparing for my next solo album. If the production goes quickly, it will be released by next year!

Are you looking forward to G-Dragon's upcoming solo album later this year or early next year?

Source: BigBangVIP and "Fans World" 2011 No. 10 Magazine
Posted by eggyone @ Koreaboo

Koreaboo | f(x) performs "Hot Summer" on Music Core


After returning from SM Town Live in Paris, the girls of f(x) are continuing their promotions. f(x) recently released a repackaged album with the title track, "Hot Summer," which is actually another remade song.

The girls of f(x) teased fans through their own Facebook account and also with pictures and even a music video teaser. Last night, SM Entertainment released the music video for "Hot Summer" just moments before their first live performance of the track last night on Music Bank.

Tonight, f(x) returned to the Music Core stage to perform their second follow up performance of "Hot Summer."

Check out their performance:


Are you enjoying this new track from f(x)?

Source: CrazyCarrot270
Posted by eggyone @ Koreaboo

Allkpop | f(x) performs "Hot Summer" on Music Bank


Having done themselves proud with a winning “Pinocchio” run, the f(x) girls are back once more with follow-up promotions with their latest title track, “Hot Summer” to keep you cool this hot summer!

“Hot Summer” is a dance pop track from their repackaged album, and has an intense synthesized sound and beat, telling the story of girls who find romance in the days of summer.

So check out their follow-up stage on Music Bank below!

Backstage:


Performance:


Posted by Denouement @ AKP

Koreaboo | f(x) reveals "Hot Summer" music video


Following a domination on music charts with their song, “Pinocchio (Danger)”, late last month, it was announced that f(x) would be releasing a re-packaged album, “Hot Summer,” which would include songs from their first album, "LA chA TA", "Chu," and "Can I Like You?" from the Paradise Ranch OST. Earlier this week, the album was revealed and SM Entertainment also released a teaser for the music video. News of the MV filming had surfaced prior as photos of the set were leaked. Keeping fans in anticipation, they also released a new photo from the set of the music video and Victoria has even posted pictures of the girls in the practice room.

f(x) has just released the music video for their new song, “Hot Summer.” “Hot Summer” is a remake of a song by the same title that was sung by German girl group Monrose back in 2007. It features the girls taking over the city with their dominance, appeal, and pink and black striped tank, as they dance in the streets. The music video was directed by Hong Wonki, who has worked on Seo Taiji's "Moai," SHINee's "Hello," Super Junior-M's "Perfection," and many other artists' music videos in the past.

SM Entertainment has described f(x)'s 2nd title song as "an electronic pop dance song with impressive synth sound and powerful beats so it matches well with the summer season." They have also mentioned that "fans and netizens have been busy creating names for main dance such as ‘It’s So Hot Dance,’ ‘What Do You Think of My Shoes Dance,’ ‘Hand Fan Dance’ and so on."

Watch "Hot Summer" MV here:


What did you think of the music video? What are your impressions of the song? f(x) will begin promoting the song on this week’s music shows. Check back later on tonight for their comeback performance on Music Bank.

Source: SMTown (YouTube and Facebook)
Posted by congee @ Koreaboo

After School greets Filipino Playgirlz/Playboyz, asks them to support "Virgin" album




Playgirlz and Playboyz, "The Virgin Day" is on July 23!

MYX Philippines already playing After School "Shampoo" MV.

To vote for the MV, just text:
MYX Request Shampoo
and send to 2366.


--------------------------------

Join After School Philippines Facebook Fanpage:

http://www.facebook.com/afterschoolphilippines


Allkpop | After School's Bekah writes thank you message to fans



Yesterday, it was revealed that After School’s Bekah would be graduating from After School. Earlier today, she shared her feelings through their official fansite.

On June 17th, Bekah posted on the Playgirlz fansite in both Korean and English. She said,

“Hello Hello~~~

You saw the news articles today right?… I’m sorry~… I wanted to tell you personally… I wanted to think about it more~ Our fans… always gave me strength.. I was always thankful… Thank you always.. I really love you… I’ll really really really miss you~ Don’t be too sad… We can meet again… :] Though I would like to express more in Korean… Koran is hard kekeke… ㅜㅜ… So… I’ll write in English~~~ >.<

I just want to thank everyone for giving me so much of their love and time to support After School and me. I especially am always amazed at those fans who came to see me at Music Bank, Music Core, and Inkigayo.. it was a HUGE encouragement for me.. Right now.. I honestly, don’t know how to feel..I can’t imagine what you guys are feeling too. I just hope the best for all of you guys, you guys are truly amazing people. I pray that you guys will always reach for your goals and no matter who discourages you.. that you keep on going.

Life is crazy, how it can change in an instant. I’m REALLY going to miss you guys screaming out AFTER SCHOOL or even my name. Everything was a blessing for me and I will NEVER forget you guys. I hope to see you guys soon. Maybe when I visit Korea again I can see you guys somehow.. I love Korea and even though it was a different culture and lifestyle for me.. I grew to embrace it and love it. You guys truly real warm people inside. I wish you guys to just shine as brightly as possible and not be afraid to love one another. I’ve learned that there are a lot of people who are difficult to get along with or love…but still..loving each other is the best thing you could ever do in this world. Of course I’m still learning too..hehe.

I don’t want to say goodbye because I have a feeling I’ll be seeing you guys one day, maybe on the street, at a convenience store.. I’m not too sure but I will see you guys again. I love you guys with all my heart and I’m so blessed. I hope for the best for you guys and always smile. God bless you guys always. I love you… A lot a lot… :]

♥ Bekah~“

We’ll miss you Bekah, and we wish you all the best with your career as a designer!

Source: Star News via Nate
Posted by chloejn @ AKP

Koreaboo | Bekah to graduate from After School


Bekah will graduate on July 1st. Bekah will release her graduation project in the form of a solo song with the lyrics written herself.

It has been reported by Korean news portal sites that After School Bekah will be leaving the group. After School had a unique concept in which members would be admitted and would graduate from the group. However, members have been admitted to the group so far with no members "graduating" until now.

After School made their debut in 2009 with their single "Ah" as a 5-member group. UEE joined the group for their second "Diva." A few months after their debut, Soyoung withdrew from the group to pursue acting and was replaced with the admission of Raina and Nana. The group was then joined by Lizzy and most recently, Yiyoung (E Young).

Bekah, one of the original After School members, will be the first member of After School to officially graduate from the group.

According to the agency Pledis Entertainment, "After much thought with the After School members, the company, and Bekah's family, Bekah has decided to 'graduate' from After School and return to Hawaii to pursue her studies for design. A graduation photoshoot for Bekah has been planned and she will spend time with her fans before her graduation."

Despite graduating from After School, it has been reported that Bekah will continue her relationship with the members of After School and will design one of After School's album in the future.

Source: Newsen and BTN News
Posted by uni @ Koreaboo

100 Things U Need to Know about After School



Attention Playgirlz! You think you already know everything about After School and its members? Well, here's a list of information which might surprise you or make your day. Read on...

1. After School is a South Korean girl group under Pledis Entertaiment (Same label as Son Dam Bi).

2. They initially debuted as a 5-member group with their debut single “AH!” last January 17, 2009. The members are Kahi, Jung Ah, JooYeon, Bekah and SoYoung. They were labeled as the Korean Pussycat Dolls because of their matured and sexy concept.

3. After School was modeled after the Japanese group Morning Musume, following their concept of ‘admission’ and ‘graduation’ of members to and from the group at a certain time.

4. In March of 2009, they acquired a behind-the-scenes reality show on MTV titled “Diary of After School” which had 4 episodes.

5. They had planned to continue their promotions of their first single album “New Schoolgirl” with another single “Bad Girl”. However, the track was deemed unsuitable and was banned to broadcast because of explicit lyrics and gunshot sounds in the song.

6. On April 6, 2009, Pledis Entertainment revealed their sixth member, UEE and sequentially released the MV of their first digital single “DIVA”

7. They were also invited to perform as guest performers for the Pussycat Dolls’ premier concert in Seoul for 6 consecutive nights.

8. After School practiced Pussycat Doll’s “Buttons” for 3-4 months before recording and performing it on different shows.

9. On May 21, 2009, they released their second digital single “Dream Girl”, which was a remake of Morning Musume’s “Love Machine”. The song was used as the theme song for Hello! Project Korea audition shows titled “Great Tokyo Girls”.

10. After School, together with their label-mate, Son Dam Bi, released the song “AMOLED” for Samsung’s Amoled phone model.

11. On October 29, 2009, Pledis announced SoYoung’s withdrawal from the group because of her health problems and studies, bringing After School back to a 5-member group.

12. On November 17, 2009, Pledis revealed the addition of two more members, namely Raina and Nana.

13. On the same month, After School, now a 7-member group, released their second mini-album “Neo Ttaemune/Because of You” which had two songs, “Neo Ttaemune” a song that begins with the sad melody of a piano and violin that folds into an addictive chorus, and “When I Fall”, a slow R&B song that Kahi actually participated in producing.

14. Neo Ttaemune dominated online charts in less than 10 days, and After School won their first ever Mutizen award on SBS Inkigayo on December 20, 2009.

15. After School has also been awarded the title of “Billboard Japan’s ‘Kpop Artist of the Year 2009”, proving their popularity gain in Japan.

16. In February 2010, After School had their first fanmeeting which included many surprises for the fans.

17. The members also baked their own cupcakes for the fans who attended their first fanmeeting.

18. In the said fanmeeting, the three fiercest members, Kahi, Jung Ah and Bekah, performed their banned song, “Bad Guy”.

19. Also, JooYeon, Raina, Nana and Uee performed FIN.K.L’s hit song, ‘To My Boyrfriend”. They performed with another unknown member, whose face was hidden under a mask. The fans speculated that the girl was probably After School’s new member.

20. In March 2010, Pledis revealed a teaser photo for their upcoming comeback. The teaser revealed a group of 8 members, with the unknown member’s face bowed down, spicing the curiosity of the excited fans. No information was yet revealed about her identity.

21. A day later, the identity of the new member was revealed- a 19 year old newcomer named Lizzy.

22. On March 25, 2010, After School, now an 8-member group, released their third single album, Bang!

23. They also revealed an MV for their intro song “Let’s Do It” which showcased their powerful drum line exhibition that they practiced for 5 months.

24. Members Kahi and Jung Ah were directly involved in the drum session recording of Let’s Do It.

25. Uee wasn’t able to join fully in the promotion of their third single due to her schedules for her drama, “Birdie Buddy”

26. On May of the same year, Pledis announced that After School would split into subgroups. Uee will not be participating because of her drama activities.
The said splitting would create 2 groups, and a solo debut for their leader, Kahi.

27. On June 3, 2010, After School released their first book entitled “Play Girlz”. The Korean-language essay book features stories and writings from all eight members who wrote candidly about their emotions and experiences based on 56 keywords like passion, challenge, love, dream, and frustration. Each member wrote about their hopes and hardships, their trainee days, their life after debut and more.

28. On June, Pledis announced their first sub-group named “Orange Caramel”. Orange Caramel consisted of the three youngest, namely Nana, Lizzy and Raina as the subgroup’s leader.

29. Orange Caramel debuted with their first mini-album on June 17, 2010. Their concept is called “Candy Culture” which means cute and bright but innocent and lovely at the same time.

30. Orange Caramel debuted with their title track, “Magic Girl” which had a super bubbly tone. CNBlue’s Minhyuk was also featured in music video.

31. Orange Caramel’s Magic Girl became a big hit, not only to fans, but to their co-artists as well. It was often parodied by other groups such as 2PM, B2ST’s Kikwang, SHINee’s Key and ZE:A’s KwangHee, etc. It surely gained a lot of popularity for the members.

32. Orange Caramel also did a Chinese remake of Norwegian girl duo M2M’s famous song, The Day You Went Away. They performed it on their promotions in Taiwan and other countries.

33. After School got their own variety program called Play Girlz School. It ran for a total of 13 episodes.

34. After several months, Orange Caramel unveiled their second mini-album with their title track, “Aing~ ♡” which grabbed much attention for the fairy tale concepts of “Alice Lizzy”, “Snow White Nana” and “Little Red Riding Hood Raina”.

35. The said released boosted Orange Caramel’s popularity even more, with its addicting choreography, and cute outfits.

36. On December of 2010, Pledis announced that they will release a charity album for the holiday season. All of Pledis’ talents (Son Dam Bi, After School and Orange Caramel) will be releasing their own version of the “Happy Pledis” album. A portion of the profits for the album will be donated to “Save The Children” foundation.

37. After School was the first one to release a charity album entitled “Happy Pledis: The First Mini-Album” which has two songs. Their title track “Love Love Love” is a dance pop song about love that fits perfectly to the cold winter. “Someone Is You”, the other song, is a mid-tempo ballad penned by Kahi, whom wrote about precious and beautiful memories into the song.

38. Bekah was not able to participate in the promotions of the said album because she is on a break and stayed in her home in Hawaii for more than 2 months.

39. On December 31, 2010, After School participated on the annual MBC Gayo Daejun, wherein MBC and Pledis secretly prepared for a special introduction of After School’s newest member. The group performed Bang! and making an interlude, the new member named Noh E Young, was introduced as she showcased her unique talent as she played an electronic guitar solo.

40. On the 14th of February 2011, after so much delay (since it was said that this should have been released on September last year), Kahi finally started her solo activities with her first mini album. The album had four tracks in it, and Kahi composed most of them, including the title track “Dorawa Nappeun Neo/Come Back You Bad Person”, which has a lyrical melody that becomes increasingly strong and dramatic with the addition of electro dance beats.

41. With Kahi’s solo activities, many speculated that this will start Kahi’s graduation from the group. However, Kahi denies it and will still continue as a member of After School.

42. On the same month, After School’s official Japanese website was opened, as the girls collaborated with the famous Namie Amuro in her first collaboration album “Checkmate!”

43. After School participated in Namie Amuro’s album with the song “Make It Happen”. This release was E Young’s first official activity as a member of the group. However, Bekah still wasn’t able to participate in the song.

44. On March 2011, Orange Caramel released their digital single “Bangkok City”, the first of their “One of Asia” project, which had Asian cities as their theme.

45. Orange Caramel’s Bangkok City swept many online music charts with their sexy and funky image and song. Due to its popularity and many requests from the fans, Pledis released 10,000 copies of their limited edition single album.

46. Jung Ah was also featured in Orange Caramel’s Bangkok City MV.

47. After School also performed in Tokyo Girls Collection 2011,a semi-annual fashion event in Japan.

48. In mid-April, after more than a year of inactivity of After School as a group, they released their first full album entitled “Virgin” where they sported their feminine and chic spring looks.

49. Their title track “Shampoo” is arranged by a famous Japanese DJ/producer, Daishi Dance.

50. After School also released an MV for their intro song “Let’s Step Up” bringing yet another fresh and unique concept. The girls showcased their full tap dance routine in this MV.

51. However, in Let’s Step Up MV, only 8 members were present. Bekah explained her absence through an interview saying that she had an ankle injury last year and during their preparations for their tap dance routine, she injured it again. The injury required surgery but she pushed back her surgery date in order to join their Shampoo promotions. She wasn’t able to perform the tap dance routine but she’s still participating in Shampoo’s performances since the choreography is less intense than the tap dance.

52. After School has been practicing tap dance since November last year.

53. The album also features After School’s power vocals Raina and Jung Ah’s solos “Leaning Against Time” and “My Bell”.

54. The album also features 2 ‘Pre School Girls’ in 2 songs, (Pre School Girl Yun Jo in “Dream” and Pre School Girl Kyung Min in Funky Man). Some speculations say that they are believed to be the upcoming members of the group.

55. fter School’s official fan club name is PLAYGIRLZ, which was derived from their song on their first album. Male fans are called Play Boyz.

KAHI:
56. Kahi was a famous backup dancer for artists under SM Entertainment and YG Entertainment (BoA, JinuSean, 1TYM, Lexy, DJ DOC, Chaeyeon, Eun Ji Won, etc.) since 2000-2006 before she was recruited by Pledis.

57. At the age of 20, Kahi ran away from her home due to her passion for dancing. She ran away to Seoul and began part time jobs without any specific plans. With a help of a friend, she started working as a freelance dancer. It took her almost ten years for her to achieve her dream of debuting as an artist.

58. She was previously in a Korean-American girl group, “S.Blush” whose digital single “It’s My Life” peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Dance Chart in 2007.

59. Kahi was TVXQ/JYJ Park Yoochun’s ex-girlfriend.

60. Kahi was deemed as After School’s father/appa due to her strong leadership and her over protectiveness for her members. She apparently is a "drill sergeant" and a perfectionist when it comes to practices and most of the members are afraid of her temper.

JUNG AH:
61. Jung Ah used to be a member of “Kiss Five” in 2005 before joining After School.

62. She participated in Son Dam Bi’s “Bad Boy” performances as a backup dancer as part of her training.

63. She sang a track from MBC’s drama “Pasta” titled “You’re Cute”.

64. Jung Ah was not a very good dancer at the start, but her dancing greatly improved after she was personally trained by Kahi.

65. Jung Ah was deemed as the mother/omma of the group because she is sort of the vice leader of the group and she is very caring towards her members

JOOYEON:
66. JooYeon was a famous internet ulzzang(meaning ‘best face’) before debuting as an After School member.

67. She appeared on MBC’s “Introduce Star’s Friend” as Son Dam Bi’s best friend.

68. She was a member of KBS Invincible Youth (G7) Season 2.

69. She has a small role in the movie “My Tutor Friend 2” in 2007 and was already famous as an actress before becoming a part of the group.

70. Currently, she is starring in KBS drama “Smile DongHae” with the role of SaeYoung, a young lady who became pregnant and gave birth to twins. She also received acting advice from co-member UEE, who starred in several dramas already.

BEKAH:
71. Bekah was born and raised in Hawaii.

72. Bekah was the first maknae of the group, before the addition of new members.

73. She was also once a model for a major American female clothing brand, ROXY, wherein she sported her healthy body in a ROXY bikini.

74. She was also featured in Tei’s “Mr. Lonely, Lee Hyori’s “Bring It Back and Seo In Guk’s “At First Sight”.

75. Aside from her famous rapping skills, she also gained more popularity through her artistic abilities. Her drawings and paintings which she posts in her twitter, cyworld and tumblr accounts surprised many fans as well as netizens.

UEE:
76. Uee used to be a trainee in Good Entertainment and was a part of a girl group “Five Girls” together with YooBin of Wonder Girls, former T-Ara member JiWon, Secret’s HyoSung and solo singer G.Na.

77. She appeared on MBC "Introduce Star’s Friend" as Wonder Girls' Yoobin's best friend.

78. Uee starred in several dramas such as in Queen Seon Duk as the young Mishil, and in “You’re Beautiful” as Yoo Hae Yi.

79. She also starred in MBC’s variety show “We Got Married” as Park Jae Jung’s virtual wife.

80. Uee became famous for her healthy “Honey Thighs”.

RAINA:
81. She previously auditioned for Mnet’s SuperstarK. However, she didn’t get that far in the talent competition.

82. Raina wrote the lyrics for Orange Caramel’s “Ajik/Still” and “Igeosseo Seoseo”, their Korean remake of M2M’s “The Day You Went Away” which was included in their second mini-album. She also wrote the lyrics to After School’s Love Love Love.

83. She was rumored to be Jo Kwon’s first love, which was hidden under the name of “Oh Bang Shil” Aside from the same surname, a photo of them together during their high school days sparked the rumor, along her statement on Strong Heart that she had her first love during her high school. However, Raina denies the rumor about her being Oh Bang Shil.

84. Raina used to work as a barista at The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.

85. Raina is one of the group’s main vocalists, but she is also a good rapper, as seen in her performance of Chris Brown’s Run It.

NANA:
86. She participated in the 2009 Asia Pacific Super Model Contest.

87. She starred in Honey Dew’s”Like A Fool” MV and Eru’s “White Tears” MV.

88. She was chosen in her auditions for her singing ability, and not for dancing.

89. She is really popular due to her doll-like face and figure, and her chic personality

90. Nana once grew 20 cm in a year, thanks to banana milk.

LIZZY:
91. Lizzy was from Busan, and was known to have a cute accent with her image that looks like a puppy.

92. She also starred in Teen Top’s debut track “Clap” MV.

93. Lizzy also became a fixed-host member in SBS “Running Man”.

94. Due to her bubbly personality and cute innocence, she quickly became a confident variety show queen. She had been receiving a lot of requests from different variety shows.

95. She was also praised in her acting skills on MBC Bouquet. Right now, she’s starring in MBC’s sitcom “All My Love” as a young Busan girl named SoonDuk.

E YOUNG:
96. Her first teaser photo aroused netizens who were drawn in by her soft, feminine and innocent appearance.

97. E Young’s electric guitar solo performance on MBC Gayo Daejun captured the public’s attention, as her appearance was in contrast to her fierce guitar skills.

98. From 2002-2008, E Young has been involved in different competitions and had received awards including Nationa Spirits’s Music Contest Piano Gold Prize, Youth Festival Target, Chuncheon Music Skill Contest Composition No. 1 Position, Gangwon Dance Contest Grand Prize, Chuncheon Youth Singing Dance Vocal Sector Prize, Soyang Culture Festival Music Awards, Youngage Music Contest, Youth Blue Festival Prize, GeumSang and Daesang Teen Gayo Award and many more. She had received over thirty awards from different competitions before debuting as a member of After School.

99. She can play several musical instruments such as guitar, piano, electronics, bass, drum, cello, and she is also into composing songs.

100. Korean Playgirlz gave the nickname 20 to E Young because ‘20’ is pronounced like E Young.

Credits: AfterSchoolPhilippines http://www.facebook.com/afterschoolphilippines
Source: Soompi, AfterSchoolDaze, Allkpop, fuckyeahAfterSchool@tumblr