Lee Young-hyun, vocalist and member of R&B group Big Mama, is holding her first solo concert this month at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University. / Courtesy of Show Note

She may not have the physique or looks of a model, but vocalist Lee Young-hyun has what it takes to be a true diva.

The 29-year-old singer and member of all-girl band Big Mama is holding her first solo concert this month. Performing without the other three members may seem strange and a bit lonely for Lee, but the concert is expected to be full of melodic and emotional songs, perfect to warm up the chilly fall season.

When vocal group Big Mama came out with their first album “Like The Bible” in 2003, everyone was blown away by the talented divas who were far from the skinny doll-faced typical starlets but were fierce in stage presence and, of course, their vocal chords.

Among the four members, Lee Young-hyun stood out, not just because of her exceptional voice, but also her songwriting. Her solo number “Resignation” became a sensation among both male and female fans and has been a favorite song for those who want to show off their vocals at gatherings or at “noraebangs,” the Korean-style karaoke, ever since its release in 2003.

The concert, titled “Listen,” will be a festival of Lee’s songs and her unique interpretations of some of her favorites, including “Listen” from the soundtrack of “The Dream Girls” and “Don’t Forget” by Baek Ji-young.

“The reason why I chose ‘Listen’ as the title is because I want fans to come and just listen to the music. There are some people who say it’s hard to just enjoy my songs, but I tried to choose easy-to-listen and carefree tunes for the show,” she told reporters during a rehearsal, Wednesday.

Fans will also be able to listen to tracks from her first solo album “Take It,” which was released in 2009 and was produced solely by the singer herself. Lee’s songs are known to be some of the most difficult to follow, mostly because of the vocal range and power that must be put into singing each one.

“Because most of the songs require high notes, I’m preparing myself physically for the challenge,” she said smiling.

Watching her sing even one song convinces the listener that she is putting her soul into it, and for the past seven years, the singer has continued to push herself to greater limits.

As if her solo performances are not enough to captivate listeners, R&B group 4men will join her for a romantic balladic evening. The ensemble will attend the concert to congratulate Lee for her first solo show, while fans will get to enjoy the melodic tunes presented by the talented balladeers.

For those who want to watch the singer show off her more versatile side, this will be the perfect opportunity as Lee is also preparing several rock and dance numbers to spice things up.

Amid the cool October weather, Lee’s concert will bring some warmth and passion to the audience that come to listen and also help the singer distinguish herself as one of the most talented vocalists in Korea.

Lee Young-hyun’s “Listen” concert will be held at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University, Oct. 23 and 24. All tickets cost 66,000 won. For more information, call (02) 3485-8700.