Jazz Vocalists to Hold Autumn Concerts
By Han Sang-hee
Staff Reporter
Korean jazz vocalist Woongsan is holding special performances titled ``Autumn in Jazz'' this month.
Well known as a ``jazz stylist'' and for her low-key and rich voice, Woongsan, 35, started singing in 1996. Her name Woongsan, meaning ``majestic mountain,'' was given to her when she entered a temple to become a monk at the age of 18. Realizing that was not her path, she quit after two years and started out as a rocker but after listening to Billy Holiday's music, she eventually turned to jazz.
The first Korean to sing at the Blue Note Jazz Club in Japan, she has been performing and gaining popularity both here and there for her deep and smooth voice and impressive musical talents. Having sang in rock bands before turning to jazz, she also carries a slightly rough voice, making her stand out among other jazz vocalists in both countries.
The upcoming concert celebrates her fourth album released here, ``Fall in Love.'' She is scheduled to release her third album in Japan on the Pony Canyon Japan label.
``Fall in Love'' carries ``cozy jazz,'' along with famous hits like ``Crazy Little Think Called Love,'' ``Tell Me All About it'' and ``Sweet Georgia Brown,'' all rearranged to her own silky style.
Having two separate bands in Korea and Japan, the album was recorded in collaboration with both, bringing her own distinctive style to both Korean and Japanese fans.
The concert will not only offer her trademark songs from previous albums that sound a lot like Billie Holiday's music, but will present songs from her new album, Korean favorites, pop numbers and other famous standard jazz works.
Woongsan's ``Autumn in Jazz'' concerts will be held from Sept. 19 to 21 at the Munhwa Ilbo Hall. All tickets cost 44,000 won. The venue is located near exit 5 of Seodamun Station on subway line 5. For more information, visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 720-3933.