Tag Archives: Drunken Tiger

[photos] “Where We’ve Been” – Following The Sunzoo Project Through NYC

During my regular browse through daily Drunken Tiger updates, I came across the latest photos on the official Sunzoo website that documented the group’s trip around the world. Being a native New Yorker, the NY photos struck up a slew of memories, and I could not let these photos go around the net without explaining where the group had been and the significance these places have in the Concrete Jungle. In an effort to better explain their trip, included in this post will be a few screen shots from Welcome To The Jungle, Episode 4.

Lodging: The Smyth (Tribeca)

Located on the intersection of West Broadway, Chambers St, and Hudson St, The Smyth is part of The Thompson Hotel chain, a highly rated group of hotels that are known for their trendy looking interior. Picture walking into a lobby filled with dimmed neon lights, lounge chairs, house music, and yes, a bustling bar connected to it. Sounds like a distraction to most people, but if you happen to stay in the upper suites like Sunzoo did, you find yourself far enough from the downstair distractions and possibly with a balcony overlooking one of NY’s busiest intersections. In the above photo, JK is commenting on how NY windows are strangely shaped.

The Smyth Interior

University Walk: NYU/Washington Square Park

Not entirely sure what prompted the crew to come here. Perhaps it’s because fellow Sunzoo member !llmind teaches at the university’s esteemed Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music. However, Waverly Place [above] serves as one of the four central streets that connect the gigantic NYU “campus.” Although not a real campus in theory, the main NYU campus spans 229 acres of NYC’s East Village, with dorms spanning all the way down to the tip of Manhattan on Water St.  If the location above looks slightly familiar, it’s been used in a number of movies, including “I Am Legend,” where one of the left houses served as the home to Will Smith’s character, Dr Robert Neville.

Underneath “The Arch,” the symbol of NYU and site of all their university wide graduations.

Home to Culture and Retail: Spring St & Wooster 

Given its close proximity to the NYU campus (10-15 minute walk), it’s no surprise that some of Welcome To The Jungle was shot in West Soho as well. Spring St connects both a slew of independent shops and high end brands (in fact, on the corner of this street is the Chanel Store). It’s here where JK talked about how he dreams of making Tasha a worldwide star.

The Transportation Hub: Grand Central Station

Being it was Tasha’s first trip to NY and JK hadn’t been back in nearly 11 years, it’s only natural to do some “touristy” things while in the city. Grand Central Station connects 5 subway lines in addition to providing express trains to Long Island and Connecticut. As a result, the station is filled with multiple floors that become a huge maze. Underground is a franchise of Junior’s Cheesecake, the infamous shop that Diddy sent “The Band” to via foot… across the Brooklyn Bridge.

Jhig & JK in Grand Central Station

A Real NY Experience: A Subway Ride

Anyone who has been to NY can tell you all about the subway lines. They smell like bathrooms, some lines run so slow you’d swear you aged another year just standing on the platform, and holy cow, $2.50 per ride? That burns a hole in your wallet. Despite its downfalls, real New Yorkers would opt to take the train over most forms of transport, often by default due to its 24-hour schedule, large span across all 5 boroughs, and its “cheap” form of transport. Rather than cab their way up from Tribeca, the crew took the train to Harlem to master The Sunzoo Project at Harlem’s StadiumRed Studios. I just wish I had pictures of the crazies that they might have ran into on the way.

Inside Stadium Red, artists like Usher and Jay-Z have recorded grammy winning songs.

Cool Down: Brooklyn Bowl

After a long day of shooting in Brooklyn, the crew chilled with Hot97 DJ and pop culture commentator, Miss Info, at Williamsburg’s Brooklyn Bowl.  The venue is a combination of a bowling alley and a music performance hall, spanning over 23,000 square ft.

There were a number of other photos from the trip, but I unfortunately cannot pinpoint where they were shot. I think its better that I just post them and hopefully they will speak for themselves. :]

-MissDrunkenCamp

[video + news] Sunzoo Official Website Opens, New “Get Down” MV

After two long months since the debut of Welcome To The Jungle TV series, the official Sunzoo website (www.therealsunzoo.com) finally opened today.

As part of the site launch, photos from the crew’s trips around the world and a new “Get Down” music video have been released. This new video was made  by TVN producer, BaeSungSang, from a compilation of footage from the TV series.

 

On a side note, the website still has some incomplete parts, but after only being open for an hour, it crashed due to an overwhelming inflow of fans visiting the site (so be patient if you’re unable to get in right away :D).

Photo Credit: DTBrasil

-MissDrunkenCamp

[news] Quincy Jones hails Tiger JK and Yoon MiRae “Best of the Far East”

In a recent visit to Korea, legendary producer and songwriter, Quincy Jones, had a chance to meet with some of the country’s top artists including Tiger JK, Yoon MiRae, BoA, and some other YG artists.

At the press conference held at E&M Center in Seoul on April 8, the American music legend said, “Such Korean artists are amongst the best that I’ve met in the Far East countries, including China and Japan.”

Asked about the prospect of K-Pop artists abroad, he said the future is very bright, and the possibilities are high for them,  “I was very much impressed by their passion and apprehension of the essence of the music.”

He added he was usually very stingy with his praises to artists, but he had to be lavish at this time.

On April 4, after meeting Tiger JK and Yoon Mirae, QuincyDJones tweeted:

Tiger JK expressed his admiration for the music legend after his encounter:


translation crecits:
TheColumnistPlus
photo credits: Tiger JK’s twitter, screen shots DTBrasil

-MissDrunkenCamp

[spoilers] Welcome To The Jungle Ep 3 & 4

WARNING: If you do not want to ruin the show for yourself, DO NOT read this and wait until the videos are uploaded online. The following includes SPOILERS.

Episode 3 [What Makes Tiger JK]

This episode featured the different aspects of JK and what are his most noticeable characteristics.

A Good Friend Who Can’t Dance: The episode starts with short testimonials from friends, including comedian Yoo Jae Suk, his personal hair dresser Yang Lee (who also owns a FANTASTIC salon in Hongdae and I personally recommend!), producer Jason Park, and his management team. In summary, they call JK a good friend, handsome, stylish… but he can’t dance, and well, according to his management, he’s frustrating to manage sometimes.

Jordan’s central role: JK claims he puts Jordan over himself. Tasha is the same, putting Jordan first, and then JK second. After Jordan’s birth, JK felt strong and now had two loves in his life: his wife and his child. Jordan repays the love by playing around his father’s feet and saying, “What is that smell? Ugh, it’s you, dad! Your feet are dirty!” Love you too, son.

JK kicks ass… literally: We’ve only seen JK’s Taekwondo moves a few times, primarily from the “Do You Know Hip-Hop” music video. JK holds a 3rd degree black belt and was a Taekwon Do teacher during his teen years and early 20s. His friends share stories of how well JK fights often, but Episode 3 and 4 shows his agility to the world. During a play fight with his manager, his manager tries to get a few hits off of him, but later is seen running behind an easel to hide from JK’s kicks.

His myelitis: Diagnosed in 2005, JK had a severe initial reaction to his myelitis medication, causing him to gain weight. He describes it as an extremely painful time where he could barely move. His pain and appearance took a toll on his sanity, and if it wasn’t for Tasha’s continuous support, he would’ve lost it. Tasha chokes up as she describes JK during this time: “He was in constant pain, but he pretended not to be for those around him. But after knowing someone for 10 years, you can see through that.”

His Relationship with Tasha: The show goes into the history of the couple’s relationship, stating that they had known each other for over 10 years, but started dating officially 7 years ago. They started off as really good friends, and during a time where Tasha felt like an outcast, JK was always a good oppa whom she found attractive. Handsome, spoke English well, made her laugh… but couldn’t dance.

The World’s Most Underappreciated Artist: John Legend calls Tasha a “real artist” who kills it on the mic. She was asked last minute to feature on his set during his 2009 concert in Korea. Producer !llmind (Eminem, Ll Cool J, Jay-Z) calls her “the most talented urban artist he’s ever seen,” citing she has pure passion when she’s on the mic, a trait of a “natural born star.”

Putting Herself On Hold: Being the Sunzoo project came up randomly during 2010, Tasha admits she was frustrated that she had to put her own album on hold for awhile. Her last album came out in 2007, but even more frustrating was her last hip-hop album came out in 2002. However, little by little, the project grew on her and she is happy she did it. Her solo album, which will focus on hip-hop, is now slated for debut sometime this year.

[Episode 4: Welcome To New York]

The episode starts with a crew laying down the initial verses of the “Get Down” track, leading them to the filming of the MV in New York City.

Introducing director Rik Cordero: Joining the Sunzoo fam is award winning director, Rik Cordero, a Filipino-American director based in NYC.  He’s done music videos for artists Jay-Z, Q-Tip, and members of the WuTang Clan. When he was first introduced to the “Get Down” track by !llmind, he immediately thought of it as a great collab and wanted to be a part of it.

“Why Didn’t You Bring the Shoes?!” When the crew arrives in New York, DJ Jhig brings a pair of Vlado Shoes for JK, but Stylez clowns on him for not bringing the pair he was bragging about in LA. “‘Check out these shoes I got for J! Check out these shoes I got for Jordan!'” he mocks, “and he didn’t bring them!”

Where Grammies are Born: In true New York fashion, the crew takes the A train from their West Village hotel up to Harlem’s StadiumRed Studio to put the final touches on “Get Down.” The studio houses tons of grammies and platinum records, including some from Jay-Z, Usher, and Justin Timberlake.

Like James Bond: In the last bits of the episode, we’re taken into Brooklyn, where the “Get Down” MV is shot. Inspired by Casino Royale, JK plays a sort of James Bond character and Tasha the seductive yet dangerous Bond lady. While wearing a slick, backless dress, she unfortunately has to record in a heater-less studio during the brutal New York winter. Luckily, filming goes smoothly… until JK breaks a glass of wine on set.

To Brazil? Post credits, JK and Tasha are seen leaving New York in a car. JK turns to Tasha and asks, “Do you want to go to Brazil next?” Tasha asks who he will see there. “Let’s just go,” he replies, “It’ll be fun.” Story to be continued.

Videos and episodes to come. Until next time….

MissDrunkenCamp

[news] opportunity to be part of DT’s reality show

As we all know, JK’s popularity is not only limited to Koreans and Korean Americans, but he appeals to fans of different backgrounds. To help showcase this, Jungle and DT Fam are asking fans WORLDWIDE to submit a short clip shouting out to DT and mentioning where they’re from (i.e. DRUNKEN TIGER, USA!). Below are the guidelines for the video clip:

Hello, Drunken Tiger fans! We have very good news to give to you ~

A Korean television station, tvN, will soon release a new documentary about the career and life of Tiger JK. The Jungle Entertaiment label got in touch with our team requesting the participation of the Brazilian and all fans around the world in the documentary by sending videos.

How to participate:

1. Jungle Ent. need us to send videos with 5 (five) seconds, showing admiration and affection for Tiger JK. You can talk about all your love for him, his music or even a lil’ video of you holding a sign saying “Tiger JK ♥” or any message written in English or Korean. Don’t forget to respect the limit of 5 seconds.

2. Jungle asked us to record the videos in open environments, but this is not a mandatory requirement. You can also record video with friends.

3. Videos should be sent to our email (feelghoodmusik@gmail.com) with the subject “Video JaguaFan” until midnight on Friday, December 17th, and we’ll send the videos to Jungle Enterteinment.

4. Specify your country!

5. GET YOUR CAMERA AND DON’T WASTE TIME! : D
Submit your video showing that you’re a real fan of our beloved Tiger!

Any questions?
Contact us by email feelghoodmusik@gmail.com or tweet us something at http://twitter.com/DrunkenTigerBR.

One!! ;D

Official post: http://www.drunkentigerbrasil.com/2010/12/news-quer-participar-de-um-documentario.html


Let’s do it. DT INTERNATIONAL!

-MissDrunkenCamp

[report] Freestyle Day: 3 of the Greats, 1 Stage

Let’s face it–in the past 4 years, JK’s popularity has skyrocketed. His face is plastered throughout Korea, from Giordano billboards, to CJ One Card TV commercials, to Yahoo! Korea interactive advertisements. Despite having their roots in the underground, some artists take this level of fame as an opportunity to go from rags to riches and never look back.

At the 2010 Freestyle Day, an annual freestyle competition/concert for both upcoming and established artists, JK chose not to be “one of those artists” and returned as a guest judge for the freestyle competition. Having fought for almost 10 years to get to the top, JK holds a lot of respect for the undiscovered and hustling rappers in the scene. Despite poster confusion, the competitors weren’t the headliners listed (sorry to disappoint!), but they still provided a moment that can primarily be seen only in Korea’s underground.

Before the winners were officially announced, the judges were brought on stage, giving the audience a glimpse of a rare moment: Garion, Tiger JK, and Sean2Slow (Korea’s most legendary lyricists) standing together on stage.

Pictured: Garion (standing), Tiger JK, Sean2Slow

Pictured Above (Left To Right): Garion, Tiger JK, Sean2Slow

Tiger JK & Sean2Slow (hip-hop legends/fathers of the Movement Crew)

Unfortunately, JK wasn’t performing on this night, so I do not have much footage of him to share. However, for those curious about updates, I asked JK about Tasha’s album release date and sorry to tell you all: it’s still in the works. What I can say is from what’s been said and the comments that have been floating around Twitter, the line up for her album sounds insane.

Special Thanks To: Jungle Entertainment

Miss DrunkenCamp

[photos] Monueal Autographing Session (Tiger JK & Yoon MiRae)

On a rainy day in September, fans lined up for a free autographing session in MyeongDong’s Shinsegae Department Store. The most dedicated of fans lined up early, however, once the two walked through the stores’s electronics department, a crowd swarms out of nowhere to catch a glimpse.

The two are the spokespersons for Monueal, a cunning edge electronics brand. Within a short hour, the two attended to 200+ waiting fans from a variety of ages. (Moment of the Day –  little 4 year old girl asks “What is your name?” and JK responds “호랑이[Tiger].”)

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Of course, I could not go without fulfilling a request. Although I love autographs, there are others who deserve one more. A few days before, DTBrasil mentioned they were aiming to get JK on the top trending topics on Twitter Brazil. Lo and behold, the morning of the autographing session, they pulled it off.

Leaving JK feeling overwhelming thankful and expressive on his autograph to them:

Thank you, Brasil and DT Fam worldwide!

credits: first photo from Newsis

-Miss DrunkenCamp

[report] Rakaa Album Release Party – pt 3

The finale act is none other than Rakaa, and the other performers do a successful job of hyping up the crowd for him. He starts strong with some hard tracks off his latest solo, “Crown of Thorns.”

Rakaa gets the crowd to put their hands up. The crew joins him.

As Rakaa performs, JK steals a video camera and records Rakaa and the crowd.

Rakaa continuously asks the crowd if they’re tired. At this point, it’s already 2:30am. The crowd screams, “NO,” and while some show signs of wear, there is one guy in the crowd that couldn’t put his arms down. Tasha gives him a bottle of water to say “thank you.” Some of the crowd is lost as Rakaa talks about his Korean mother and how much he respects his roots. JK offers to translate and the crowd responds with an overwhelming reply filled with pride.

And as Rakaa finishes up songs from his solo, he treats the Dilated Peoples fans with hit songs from the past.

“Proper Propaganda – Dilated Peoples 2nd album

“Work The Angles” –  Dilated Peoples 1st album

“This Way” – Dilated Peoples 3rd album

Towards the end of his set, he brings it back to his solo and does “Ambassador Slang,” which features DT, Tasha, Roscoe, and Stylez. [warning: JK stepped off the stage right next to me and did a short dance in front of my camera, so there is a moment of shakiness due to panicking fans and bodyguards]

And of course, the final treat was “Monster,” with everyone the track. This was truly a moment in hip-hop history.

They end the night with a group bow.

and after all the hard work, some fun in the VIP room. they say the entertainment industry is 90% work, and 10% fun, but in all honesty, the 10% is all worth it. Backstage, we see surprise characters waiting like Palo Alto and JK’s old friends. It’s a small room bustling with at least 20+ people.

Despite chaos, it’s a nice moment between all of Drunken fam. Outside the curtains are fans patiently waiting. Some want autographs, some want to give gifts, and some are just dedicated enough to wait for the artists to come out so they can see them. Patience does not come unrewarded as some of these fans get a shot with Rakaa at 4am.

The crew is escorted out of a back elevator and hop into their van. The site of fans still waiting outside for a glimpse of everyone shows true dedication and the night ends with the crew giving smiles to adoring fans.

-Miss DrunkenCamp

credits to: Danny Oh & CBMassMatics for helping out with this post.

[report] Rakaa Album Release Party – pt 2

It looks like with all the photos and videos, I’ll have to divide this into 3 parts.

J returns to the stage, ironically hyping the crowd up for the next act: himself. He starts the set with “Liquor Shotz,” followed by “Thumb,” and “Do You Know Hip-Hop?” The first 2 songs warm the crowd up, but somehow “Do You Know Hip-Hop?,” though nearly 11 years old, always gets everyone jumping.

Between sets, he introduces !llmind, a hip-hop producer from New Jersey. He’s produced tracks for some of the world’s well known rappers: LL Cool J, Wutang Clan, Eminem, and 50 Cent. J gives props to !llmind for supporting Jungle Fam.

set continued (Stylez still tweeting)

Roscoe steps into the crowd and grabs this from a fan. Representin’ DT crew.

Up close and personal.

And then the final treat – JetPack (English), ft Roscoe, and Stylez.

This segue leads into Tasha’s set, who starts with “True Romance.”

To my own surprise, she wears the shirt that I almost wore to the show. It’s a simple top from the American brand, Forever 21, which has gained popularity here with even the most famous in Korea (Lee Hyori also wore a sparkly dress from the store in a recent soju ad.)

She rocks out a mixture of hip-hop songs from her most recent album, YoonMiRae, and her 2002 hip-hop album, Gemini. Her upcoming album will revisit the edginess of this album, and while the original debut was suppose to be this month, it still looks like it’s still in the works. :/

However, whenever these two lay even a hand on each other, cameras rise out of nowhere to take photos. They’re perhaps Korea’s most envied famous couple.

In the midst of her set, Stylez steps off to fully immerse himself into the crowd. Tasha tries to pull him back up, but only induces madness. She later fed into the madness by pouring a bottle of water on JK’s head, a new habit she’s become fond of doing.

At the end of her “Pay Day” performance, she poses with J and Bizzy.

And I will finish this half of the post with a video of Tasha’s “G Hwa Ja,” from her “Gemini” album.

photo/video credits to: http://www.rokhiphop.com, Danny Oh

-MissDrunkenCamp