Among many activities in the coming week, I am currently preparing for my 'debriefing' tomorrow with the Executive Director of the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF), which is the Fulbright Commission of the Philippines, or simply, "Fulbright Philippines". This is the second time that I will be doing this as this is my second time to receive a study grant from one of the Programs administered by PAEF on behalf of the Philippines and the United States of America (USA). Somehow, it feels different than how I felt 15 years ago when I returned to the country after five years of studies in the US as a Fulbright-Philippine Agriculture Scholarship grantee. Although that wasn't my first time to study abroad then, it felt different because of the expectations attached to being a Fulbright scholar and earning a PhD even when the experience was extremely humbling. It was a life-changing experience though and that was why it was a challenge to be re-integrated to my work's community. This time around, it is even more different because of the expectations in the workplace, primarily due to my age, experience, and the more challenging work that awaits me.
The same University, the same person...
two moments in time, twenty years in between.
Everytime I feel like I passed a milestone in my profession, or in my personal life, I offer a 'special' prayer to God... to allow contemplation. And, just when I thought that I have experienced the best in my current profession already, therefore, I am done, and I am ready to diminish into retirement... a 'new chapter' opens up. Then I realized that the milestone that I just passed is 'the best' in the previous chapter... while the most beautiful moment in my life is yet to come. 'The best is yet to come', indeed - thanks, BTS for the reminder. I think that when we adopt this way of thinking, this attitude, then life will always be exciting for us... and it will always be worth living for, and living to the best of our ability, too.
This generation is very lucky because they have BTS to keep reminding them about these things. When life throws us a curve ball, and we struggle to hit it, missing it most of the time, sending us to the darkest of moods and bleak vision of our future, BTS reminds us in "Mikrokosmos" to just 'shine, dream, smile' because someone else might be finding inspiration in us. If we keep smiling no matter how much we're hurting, we shine our light upon them... and they glow, and shine their light upon us, too. And then, through our lights, we create our own constellation, our own cosmos... our very own mikrokosmos where there is nothing else but wonder and beauty. Through their songs, BTS built 'that door in our hearts' that opened to the "Magic Shop", where all the answers to our questions await us, comforting us, assuring us of our life's significance, our relevance, our place in this world... just waiting for us... there in our hearts. And, when we pray, the answers become clearer, more meaningful, make so much more sense. And, when the 'new chapter' feels more intimidating than the previous one, in "Life Goes On", BTS offer their hands so we can 'run away to that future' where all the sufferings and anxieties fade into just an 'echo in the forest'.
Physically older but wiser (gosh, I hope!),
less stylish but more comfortable (I swear!)...
less years in the future ahead, but happier...
much happier (it's true!)!
I am no longer young... and I am not complaining either! I've gone through so much in this life already... thankfully, with very little regrets. And yet, I, too, bump into seemingly insurmountable challenges once in a while. And, every once in a while, I need a sweeping inspiration, too, to keep going. BTS provides some of that needed inspiration... the reason to laugh through their hilarious antics; the reason to get up and move about, shake about, and rid myself of the negative energy by trying to move like them. Of course, it is impossible to move like them (well, for me! Hahaha....)... but as I try, the momentary distraction makes my heart swell with glee. It gives me time to re-think my priorities, what is most important to me... and then, as I settle down to reflect, I hear the door knob to my heart clicking. And then, I find myself walking into my "Magic Shop" in my very own "Mikrokosmos". As I watch the stars glow so beautifully, I get convinced that, indeed, "the best is yet to come". In the meantime, "life goes go on"!
If people in my generation doubt about BTS's ability to make sense out of life through music the way our favorite artists in the past did, then I recommend that they listen to this...
2021: BTS ("I'll be missing you")
Isn't it as good as this...?
1983: The Police ("Every breath you take")
I rest my case. đź’ś
***
Photo credit: The photos in this post were taken by various individuals for me. As such, they belong to me and, therefore, I have the freedom to do as I wish.
Video credit: The owners of the videos featured in this post are indicated in the videos themselves. Thanks, YouTube, for the video links.
One of the things that I love about living in Ithaca in Upstate New York is how one can be very close to nature. There is always an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature whatever time of year... although winter can be truly harsh.
An assortment of blooms in the Cornell campus in Ithaca, NY during spring time.
This is the beauty of studying at Cornell University, too, specifically in its Ithaca campus. Aside from it being an Ivy League... and, therefore, the quality of education is topnotch, the Ithaca campus is surrounded by nature in its unadulterated beauty. The campus itself is beautiful: dramatic in Autumn, surreal in winter time, deliciously prettyin spring, and totally smashing during summer time. More than anything else though, the company of brilliant and fun students, and awesome mentors, was totally wonderful and unforgettable. I spent five years in the Ithaca campus of Cornell as a PhD student in the mid 2000s. I thank the Fulbright-Philippine Agriculture scholarship program endlessly for the opportunity... because those were some of the very best years of my life!
So, in AY 2021-2022, I had the opportunity to return to Cornell. This time, I return as a Hubert H. Humphrey (HHH) Fellowship grantee. The HHH Fellowship Program is under the Fulbright Scholarship Program of the US Department of State. It is a highly competitive program that is usually awarded to professionals in their mid-career or leaders who are ready to move up to more influential leadership roles in their field of work. In my Humphrey Fellowship, I was primarily hosted by the Penn State University in State College, PA but I chose Cornell as the venue for one of my two six-week non-local Professional Affiliations. The other one is Boise State University in Idaho. I couldn't be any happier!
Enjoying a lovely spring time evening, walking around East Hill area of Ithaca, NY.
In Ithaca, I stayed at the eastern side of the campus... up a hill, towards downtown. The house where I stayed this time was the same house where I lived on my last year as a PhD student in Cornell. Its location is adjacent to that of the Baker Institute for Animal Health of the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, which is recognized as one of the very best Vet Schools in the world. The house has among the most beautiful views of Ithaca sunset, which gets dramatic during spring time because of the usually thick dark rain clouds that contrasted with the burning red-orange color of the sun as it sank in the horizon among the tall trees on the hills. It is absolutely lovely!
Every single day, I was motivated to start the day well by the cheerful tweets of birds outside my window... and the gentle fingers of the rising sun that knocked on my window with its comforting warmth. They brought smile to my lips as I prayed for that beautiful day that beckoned. All day long, the horses at the stable of the Baker Institute grazed around the hills, and they usually wandered at the house's backyard. I enjoyed watching them, especially the two most active ones who loved to run around. They are the ones featured in the video above.
Towards the end of the day, I put all my concentration on my work so I can eat dinner early with the kind family who owns the house... and relax as I watched the beautiful sunset at the backyard. In the evening, I put on my walking/running shoes, put on my earphones, and pull down my favorite playlist on Spotify - mostly BTS music, of course! I then joined some of our neighbors as I walked/ran a minimum of 4km, chasing the colors of the sunset fade into the night. Perfect day for Namjooning, indeed!
I usually went to bed every single night satisfied with my day... and happy that I got to rest well as I anticipated another lovely day to come my way in the morning. Looking back, those days that were full of hope reminded me of my favorite line in one of the newest BTS songs, "Yet to come". The line went, "dream and hope, and go forward - we're so about it!" Yes, I am so about it, too!
Ahhh... Ithaca! Take me back!
***
Video credit: The video featured in this post belong to me. I shot it for the sole use of this post.
Photo credit: All photos used in this post belong to me. I took and processed them for the sole purpose of this post.
When one goes through a 're-integration' process in one's community after being away for a considerable period of time, it can be quite a struggle. I know this for a fact because I am going through this right now. Exactly ten days since I got back from a whirlwind 10-month sojourn in the United States (US), I am still ambling around, digesting what I hear around absently... like a 'buffering Jungkoook' (JK)... although not as cute, of course.
Ten months, seven States, twenty cities and towns, and three universities of affiliation, and two more that were officially visited... indeed, there is so much to write regarding my latest US sojourn although I did post a few things about it in this blog already, and yet, the best parts remain in my 'memory box'... waiting to be chronicled here. Sometimes, the memory becomes too vivid in my head, it's like watching it on a screen in front of me, forcing me to 'zone out'... hence, the 'buffering'. This is why I completely understand JK... except that, in his case, I am sure that it's due to his being a genius artist - visions of perfection keep flashing in his head, and they fascinate him... hence, the usually 'euphoric' look in his eyes when he zones out. Or, perhaps, it's just an aftermath of a video game... all of a sudden, he realized a better tactic for winning! Don't ask me why I know... because if you ask, I'd lie! Hahaha...
Anyway, as I continue to struggle to slowly reintegrate in my community even when I hit the ground running at work, let me speed up the process by 'looking back' and 'looking (very) far back'... in this nostalgic post.
***
Looking back
One of the most remarkable songs of BTS, for me, is "ON" from the album, "Map of the Soul: 7", released in the first quarter of 2020, just a few months earlier than the 7th debut anniversary of BTS... and just before the COVID-19 pandemic wrecked havoc worldwide.
The song was not meant to inspire resilience against the pandemic as it was created prior to the pandemic. Rather, it is BTS's reflection and self-affirmation, given the challenges that they surmounted as a group that brought them to where they were on the eve of their 7th anniversary. As it happened, BTS is truly destined for something great, and the words they chose in creating this masterpiece find significance in any form of human struggle. The timing of the release of "ON" couldn't be more impeccable, too, because, heaven knows that, that time, the world needed an uplifting 'anthem' to keep it afloat, which "ON" generously provided! In terms of lyrics, it is inspirational. It is like a battle cry of a generation robbed of supposedly the most significant days of their lives by a brutal virus that claimed many lives - literally and figuratively.
The song acknowledges the uncertainties around, and submits to vulnerability. "Is it the shadow that's shaking, or is it my feet that are trembling? Of course, I am not unafraid. Of course, it is not all okay..." And yet, it is encouraging one to soldier on, no matter what, "but I know, awkwardly, I flow. I fly together with that black wind." And when times became tough... really, really tough, BTS looked COVID-19 in the eye and stared it down without blinking, "Can't hold me down 'cause you know I'm a fighter. Carried myself into this beautiful prison. Find me, and I'm gonna live with ya!" And, the world stood behind these magnificent seven young men to fight for its existence against the pandemic!
𝅘𝅥𝅱𝆕 "Bring it, bring the pain, oh, yeah.
Come up, bring the pain, oh, yeah.
Rain be pourin', sky keep fallin'
Everyday, oh, na-na-na
Find me, and I'm gonna bleed with ya!" đť… đť…ˇ
"ON" is not just your 'regular' fight song. It's a bold defiance against defeat... a refusal to lose, a refusal to bow under the harshness of life in general... and the punishing bitterness of the pandemic in particular. RM, Jin, SUGA, J-Hope, Jimin, V and JK stood their ground, stared pandemic in the eye, and dared it to move them where they stood. Considering how a multitude of our young generation stayed strong throughout the pandemic by just listening to BTS songs, and watching their old BTS Run episodes, interviews and MVs, BTS completely carried their generation to a decisive win!
In terms of music, this song is bound to become one of the most remembered songs of this generation. It bears the signature BTS multi-layer quality with the vocal line and rap line alternating, and sometimes coming together on top of each other faster than a bullet train, to assault the sound wave with beautiful blend of sweet vocals - feathery and thick; and muscular rapping - so bold and daring. This is why it is very hard to beat BTS. The vocal line sing so beautifully, indeed, with such thick, impenetrable quality; but the rap line make the BTS music quality absolutely 'airtight' - hard to copy, hard to match... one of a kind! The accompanying music goes from sway-worthy to hip-hop and break dance-worthy... to just totally explosive! It just grips the listener. The song changes tempo all throughout its 4 minutes and 6 seconds length without losing its grip on the listener. Yes, the song is meticulously produced, indeed, and it's bound to be a classic from this generation courtesy of these extraordinary seven young men from South Korea.
The official music video (MV) is also a work of art. Obviously a humongous effort was put in creating it, and in actually making it. But that's BTS... they never put out something that's half-baked. The seven members put their best foot forward in acting their parts out, creating a mini movie that is both visually impressive and musically unforgettable. Naturally, their dancing prowess were also exhibited, just making sure that they keep their hold of that coveted position - the artists that defined this generation. Their live performances of "ON" were also nothing less than terrific, fabulous... awesome!
***
Looking (very) far back
The first time I saw the MV of "ON", I can't help but be reminded of one of my favorite Duran Duran songs, "Union of the Snake", released in 1983. It is from their third album, "Seven and the Ragged Tiger". There were no similarities in the songs but the theme of the MVs are somewhat related... well, for me, being both a Duranny and an ARMY. See for yourself.
𝅘𝅥𝅯𝆕 "The union of the snake is on the climb.
Movin' up, it's gonna race, it's gonna break through the borderline..."𝅘𝅥𝅱𝆕
I don't think I ever understood the meaning of this Duran Duran song though. Hahaha... and after all these years, I am still struggling to figure it out. Simon Le Bon, the band's vocalist and song lyricist, attempted to explain a few times - seriously and jokingly. He completely capitalized on his attempted British poetry impressionism. His vague explanation never did anything to alleviate my confusion. Dang, Simon!Hahaha... In spite of that, I remained a Duranny until this day! Yep, I am happy to share the fandom with the late Princess Diana, too.
Being a fan does not vanish with time, and with a song that is difficult to comprehend. Being a fan is about relationship with the music that the band created. This is an unbreakable bond because they provided the 'music theme' of one's life. After all, if life is a movie, what helps it to become an obra maestra is a superb musical scoring, right? I may not understood completely what Union of the Snake meant but I remember most of the moments when I sang along with it through junior high school days - the mood and the social debacle around me. I do have history with Duran Duran and their music.
I remember, it was also in 1983 when Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, Jr. was assassinated at the tarmac of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which was still called Manila International Airport (MIA) that time. I was in junior high school. There was national grieving, political tension, and uprising, which later escalated to the first bloodless revolution in a very long time in the history of mankind, the EDSA Revolution in 1986 - a proud moment for the Philippines. Throughout those times, Duran Duran music and the rest of the "New Wave" music of that generation were our companion in going through that unprecedented social and political debacle in our country. That is history... and nothing and no one can change history.
Back to the Union of the Snake, the MV didn't help my confusion either! Hahaha... but it's visually pleasing, considering how pretty every member of Duran Duran was. Then again, isn't that one of the reasons for MV? It is supposed to aid listeners in song recall. The song did pretty well though, peaking at #3 in Billboard Top 100 for three weeks. Considering that that "New Romantic" era, a subpart of the "Second British Invasion" (the first one being the Beatles and Rolling Stones era), was peppered with SO MANY excellent bands back then such as Wham, Culture Club, The Police, Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, and Spandau Ballet, not to mention that it was the time of booming American pop music, too, where the likes of Prince, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Bryan Adams, and Hall & Oates filled the limelight. And, for this particular song, Duran Duran had to contend with the very much anticipated second collaboration of the late Michael Jackson and Beatles' Paul McCartney in that phenomenal song, "Say, Say, Say", a follow-up to their first mega collaboration, "The Girl is Mine".
***
Ah, memories... here I am again... *buffering*. Hahahaha...
Alright, I have work to do! I gotta go!
Let me leave you with the live performance of Duran Duran's Union of the Snake at the famed "Live Aid" concert in 1984. Let Simon Le Bon wow (or make you gag, whichever is applicable. Hahaha...) you with his eccentric moves on stage, Nick Rhodes' genius on the synthesizers, Andy Taylor's pretty good guitars, and that very tight rhythm section care of Roger Taylor on drums and the very pretty John Taylor (my forever crush! *blush* Haha... ) on bass.
Ciao!
***
Video credits: The owners of the videos are indicated on the video themselves. Thanks, YouTube, for the video links.
References: BTS and Duran Duran official websites, and Billboard Hot 100.
Framing the Bob Gibb Friendship Bridge across the Boise River.
The Special Collections and Archives of Boise State University (BSU) keeps a data base of important materials and artifacts that make up BSU's history as well as that of Boise City, and the State of Idaho itself. Among others, they keep a list of remarkable works of art that abound the campus. One such remarkable work that catches attention when exploring the campus is the work of sculptor, Nobuyo Okuda, a graduate of the BSU School of Arts (BA Fine Arts, Class of 1984).
The work is composed of two half circles made of stainless steel, joined at a single point and supporting each other where they are joined. The two half circles then extend gracefully beyond the point of full contact. As such, it is a remarkably minimalist number that shows how geometry and physics are used in artistic creations but seems insignificant the first time one sees it... at least, by those who prefer things from the perspective of pragmatism and functionality. However, as one studies the origin of the sculpture, one can fully appreciate its significance.
The sculpture was donated by Robert Hay to BSU in honor of his wife, Janet Hay, who
"Eternal Wind" with the Administration Building of Boise State University.
served for three terms in the State of Idaho Legislature, representing Nampa; championing education as member of the Idaho State Board of Education. As such, the sculpture is also referred to as "Janet Hay Memorial". To pay tribute to Janet Hay's advocacy, Okuda created a piece that symbolizes the "student-teacher relationship" in teaching-learning process. Each half circle, which represents either the student or the teacher, stands incomplete and insignificant. However, as the half-circles are joined fully at one point - in an education institution where learning takes place - they stand beautifully, completing each other... taking flight to extend gracefully to reach the other end... until one can no longer distinguish where the structure begins and where it ends, hence, the "eternal" nature of the relationship that they symbolize. And, as they seem to move to reach each other in a circular motion, they generate "eternal wind"... in the same way that the effective teaching-learning process in an excellent student-teacher relationship can eternally generate useful information that is cultivated to bear knowledge... and nurtured to shape into wisdom. Indeed, it is a beautiful symbol of student-teacher relationship and that process of teaching-learning... not just in an academic institution setting, but in life itself! After all, we all have most beloved mentors in our lives... and in what we do in our vocations and professions... who guide us, inspire us and keep us motivated to do well.
To me, it is an added point that the "Eternal Wind" is located in a place where, at an angle from one side, the circle frames the "Bob Gibb Friendship Bridge", which connects the campus with downtown Boise that are separated by the Boise River. From the opposite side, the sculpture serves as a circular frame for the Administration Building, which is quite remarkable, too. The sculpture is also installed in a circular plaza between the Albertsons Library and the College of Arts and the Sciences where students can hangout. I spent many hours reading in that plaza... or simply, namjooning, waiting for the sunset so I can view it from the Friendship Bridge where the sun's fingers spread across the river one last time in a given day as it sinks into the horizon. Again, beautiful!
***
Photo credit: I took all photos in this post and processed them solely for this post.
References: Special Collection and Archives of Boise State University (news writer - Rachel Taylor, 2019); The Arbiter, 06 October 1999.
Footnote:"Namjooning" - per BTS explanation, it is the "act of living as Kim Nam-Joon. This includes taking walks through parks, admiring nature, hanging out with crabs, and having fun with friends" (Reference: Click here.). Kim Nam-Joon, also known as "RM" (short for, originally, "Rap Monster"), is the leader of the South Korean group, BTS.
HOME! Yep, back to my very own room, very own bed... and very own desk at home. And back to my senses, too, today... after ambling dazedly in the house... between sleep and half-consciousness, recovering from massive jetlag. There's only so much studying and traveling that one could do... especially in this day and age... and in the middle of this pandemic, too. So, yeah, I.am.back... and will be here for a long while!
My temple still hurts from all the sleepless hours. I so love to go out and take a long walk outside... but it's been raining so much, and the rhythmic sound of raindrops on the roof had been lulling me to sleep in the middle of the day - not helping. I need to unpack, too... and I feel daunted by the task of rearranging my stuff in my closet, throwing away some, or giving them away to who might need them... and making room for new stuff in my bookshelves, desk, shoe rack, and what have you!
But, first things first... I need music! I think that should speed up the process. But what to play... BTS? Hmmmm... I love them, but maybe not this time. I need something more 'classic'... rock? Yeah, definitely rock! The honest-to-goodness rock chick in me has been struggling to stay quiet for the past ten months, and it's been waiting to let loose. There was no chance to do that while being a Humphrey Fellow in the US... except that one time when the radio in the van played "Paradise City" by Guns n' Roses while we were on our way to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania with our Coordinators. I just automatically screamed my lungs out without thinking, "take me down to the paradise city where the grass is green and girls so pretty! Oh, won't you please take me home!"
I was sitting at the back, and my colleagues turned to look at me in shock... and I froze. "What...?" is all that I can say, feeling strangely guilty. One of my younger colleagues said, "whaaat? You know this song? Damn, I love you!" It was my turn to be shocked! Ah, the power of music, it begets love! Hahaha...
***
'Old Territory': Let's rock, yo!
So, yeah, let's do alternative rock today! Let's see, what can we play? Hmm... let's go for Collective Soul! Alright, let's begin with the CS song that got me hooked to their music... "The World I know".
🎝"Has all the kindness gone
Hope still lingers on..." 🎝
Hmm... that felt good, huh? I heard this song for the first time in early 1995. I bought that CD in late 1995 while a visiting scholar at Ohio State University (OSU) using a hard-earned scholarship money. Hahaha... those were the days! Although that hasn't changed much lately. Anyway, that song introduced me to CS music... and deeper into the grunge era with the likes of Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Matchbox 20. CS remained to be one of my favorite Alternative Rock bands today. Here's one of the most popular CS songs, which I love, too, "Shine".
🎜"Teach me how to speak, teach me how to share, teach me where to go
Tell me, will love be there? Will love be there?
Whoa, heaven let your light shine down..."🎝
That sounds good and hopeful, right? Just a couple of hours ago, I received an Advisory from the Philippine Consulate in New York City through our Philippine Humphrey Fellows Alumni Association. It was about how a Filipino tourist was attacked and was very badly hurt. The Advisory was asking all Filipinos to be careful and vigilant when roaming the City. It made me feel sad... and I cringed a little bit because a few weeks ago, I was in NYC for business. I then roamed the City with a friend. We re-visited all-time favorite spots, and explored new ones. That line, "...teach me where to go... tell me, will love be there," resonated to me as I think about our visit to NYC and that terrible news. It makes me want to pray, "heaven let your light shine down." Anyway, my friend I participated in a Philippine Independence Day parade while in NYC, and checked out the Filipino Food Fair that followed. It was awesome! But, I digress... I will write about that at some point here.
In the meantime, let's go back to CS music. I'd be a remiss if I didn't include this song that I do believe defines CS as a band to me and to many others, "December".
🎜"Just tilt my sun towards your domain, your cup runneth over again
Don't scream about, don't think aloud
Turn your head now, baby, just spit me out
Don't worry about, don't speak of doubt
Turn your head now, baby, just spit me out"🎝
That's beautiful, isn't it? Ed Roland's voice is husky as a rock vocalist's voice should sound, but also sweetly soft, deep and calming - a rare combination that makes CS's music truly unique as well. The lyrics of their songs are deep and insightful, too, without sounding 'preachy'. The rhythm section though is quite 'perforated' in this song. The bass is lost in all that beautiful drumming, but Ed Roland's unique voice fills up the gaps, sealing them off... resulting in an 'airtight' sound that makes for a truly distinct Collective Soul sound. I love it! When they sang this live at the Woodstock in 1999, the sound was a bit more 'muscular'... and then rhythmic, and then just all-out loud - too good! Click here, and see/hear for yourself. Warning: it is addictive!
Rock music ain't great if it ain't 'loud', right? So, here's a vintage CS rockin' sound, also at the Woodstock in 1999. The (collective) soul-gripping, "Where the river flows".
🎜"Don't feed me sorrow, pain is a poison I digest
Find yourself another soul to hold (You think, you thought I know)
Off upon my journey I must go (to where the river flows...)"🎝
That started out rough and, perhaps, not as gripping as the recorded version. But it did pick up, and hit the spot bullseye in the end - awesome... and remains awesome after more than 20 years! I love it that their rhythm section picked up beautifully in this song, too - matched Ed's vocals to the tee... incredible!
Here's a bonus song - a rock bomb (make sure you have your earphones on)... click here.
***
Massive HOPE in J-HOPE
So, after listening to all these songs by CS, y'all probably know by now why, among many more reasons, I COMPLETELY dig and support J-Hope's "Jack in the Box" album, right? The first track, "More", is AWESOME. Indeed, it leaves you begging for mooore!
🎜 "I'm in my element, soak up the music
Bring it all, I'm doing it all
Hah, shout out
I say, MORE!" 🎝
Hobi is an incredible music artist of this generation. However, with the very thick 'multi-layer' quality of BTS music - song after song - his contribution is just one of the many layers no matter how significant it is. As the main dancer of the Group, his dancing, which is incredible, too, is usually highlighted more than his music. With his dancing, rapping and singing, he is undeniably one of the very best performers that K-Pop has ever produced... and yet, musically, he has so much more to offer. I am so glad that, musically, he is taking the center stage with Jack in the Box. The album separated Hobi's music from the BTS multi-layer mold... and what we have is a J-Hope music distilled in its purest and highly concentrated form... and it's very impressive, indeed.
Among many others, he shows the range of his creativity and capabilities in making music that is so out-of-the-BTS-box, and it's absolutely rockin' beautiful! He tells his own stories, his views, doubts, visions and dreams though his songs without having to worry about stepping over the BTS perimeter. I'm sure that is absolutely liberating for him! His raspy voice, which he brings from whisper to scream that is so delicious to hear, mixed well with the edgy music, is a new K-Pop formula that catapults J-Hope to that new generation of Korean music innovators. When you can make music that contrasts in sound and production from what you are so used to, then you truly are an artist in your own right... and you are worth-listening. Hobi is all this... and MORE! I intentionally mixed Hobi's "More" with the classic CS songs to prove a point: J-Hope is on his way to becoming a legend in the music industry!
One day, I will write a full review of Jack in the Box. That's a promise.
Alright, great! I'm all fired up now. Let's go!
***
Video credit: Credits are indicated in the video themselves. Thanks, YouTube, for the video links.
There are many important occasions today, and it's good that it's Saturday, too. Although it is a thoroughly busy day for me... as I am traveling from the US to the Philippines as I write this blog post. In fact, I am currently standing on a loooong queue that is snaking around the Tom Bradley International Terminal of LAX... that is not moving! There's a huge variety of anxiety-triggers along the queue: "late again?", "when do they start checking us in?", "can we make it to boarding at this rate?", "man, I have a connection in Manila! Will I make it at this rate?"... and what have you!
After missing a flight the day before... and after walking (thrice! Long story... not worth discussing.) from Terminal 7 of LAX to Tom Bradley with three pieces of huge check-in luggage balanced on a squeaking cart (well, can you blame it, given the weight of my luggage?), a carry-on, and a backpack, and with that heat outside, and the LA smog that made my eyes water, plus I am really hungry... I cannot listen anymore to all the complaints around me. So, after conversing and commiserating with my fellow frustrated passengers, I decided, I have to do something productive... and happy.
So, I switched on Spotify, opened my ever-reliable favorite Playlist... put on my wireless earbuds... and voila, here I am... in this safe virtual haven of mine. Let's go!
***
Everything happens for a reason
Yep, I missed my flight the day before because of that Health Pass online Form that one person insisted I needed to fill out before I can be checked-in and be given a boarding pass. Apparently, she was misinformed... but, by the time someone made a clarification, my luggage did not have enough time to reach the plane even if I can still sprint to my gate! So, I returned to my sister's home, and spent most part of the morning getting re-booked for my flights today. Thankfully, the Department of State's Travel Agency that was assigned to handle the travel plans of Humphrey Fellows like myself was very efficient that everything was taken care of in only a couple of hours. I then spent the rest of the morning and early afternoon taking delicious catnaps... and listening to music in between.
The truth is, I wasn't feeling too well yesterday as I had my COVID-19 second booster shot last Wednesday evening. I wasn't feeling well the following day, Thursday, but I couldn't take a
rest because I had to pack and re-pack my luggage. Ten months of being in the US had me 'amassing' stuff - mostly books... and shoes - lots of them! Nope, I do not plan to make excuses... 'cause I have none! Anyway, the extra day of stay gave me time to recuperate... and be ready for the long journey home today - a blessing in disguise.
It was a beautiful day, too! It was a bit warm, but it was sunny, and the sky was clear and very blue - pretty, and perfect for some Namjooning! And so, in the late afternoon, as my brother-in-law went to play golf, my sister and I decided to take a walk around the neighborhood so I can admire the place one last time. I love the old huge trees that lined the streets, almost forming a natural canopy above our heads as we walked. The shade they provided made the warm air a bit cooler, keeping the heat radiated by the asphalt road in check. So, it was quite a comfortable walk.
These last month that I was in my sister's place in Boise City, ID, I walked almost everyday. First of all, I walked to the Boise State University campus... walked leisurely around the
campus and beyond after work, and then walked home. I typically complete more than 10,000 steps daily, which is usually equivalent to, at least, 7 km. The place is nice and safe, so I enjoyed every minute of my walk! Also, I loved looking at the houses around. They are most definitely not as HUGE as the houses in, say, Texas! However, they are dainty and lovely... making the village where my sister lives very pretty, indeed. People are so friendly, too. Many of them let me take a photo of their home, and even chatted a bit about the neighborhood, especially when they learned that I am a visiting scholar at Boise State. Perhaps, that is another thing that I love about this place - people's sense of community, and sense of pride of what their community has to offer.
My sister and I decided to eat dinner at one of our favorite Asian restaurants in the village. We took a different route on our way there just to explore the village. We saw interesting things
around the neighborhood. My favorite was a mini free library at the front yard of one house. There were a couple of comfortable seats provided, and there were a few more spares in the barn just directly at the back of the free mini library. Anyone in the neighborhood can come and read, and anyone can donate books as well. It is a very good idea, really. In fact, I've seen one like this at the Anne Frank Memorial at downtown Boise.... which I'll write about in the (near) future.
My sister and I did not have our 'usual' at the Asian resto... we ventured to something different. We usually ordered ramen or pho but, this time, I ordered their special noodles... which was truly special - lots of veggies, shrimp and beef. It was delicious... and I finished it all! The long walk gave me appetite, and I loved it! My sister opted for something with rice, and se loved it, too.
On our way back to my sister's house, we decided to walk some more at a park nearby. It was, actually, a dog park. So, there were many people walking and playing with their dogs... and there were some more playing tennis and basketball. It was quite busy... but not crowded - there was enough space for everyone. My sister and I decided to take camp at the
picnic area... I was so full and happy that I decided to lie down... and just enjoy the fresh air, and the peace and quiet while I bonded with my sister. We talked about our immediate and long-term plans... and things that we are not planning just yet. It was a very good talk, which I did enjoy. This is another thing that I love about this place... there are many amenities that are found in big cities, like New York City (NYC), for instance... MINUS the huge crowd, the noise, the stench, the security and safety threats, and the lack of privacy. Ah... perhaps, it's my age. I used to enjoy the sight and sound of NYC... but, these days, I go there primarily for business. Then again, times have changed tremendously... and so did NYC! Given the choice, I'd rather go to Boise or in Upstate New York... and even in rural Pennsylvania - hmmm... uhm, perhaps, I won't go that far! I do love Pittsburgh though! It's cosmopolitan and lovely with a fair amount of intellectual vibes about it... but not as chaotic as NYC, or Philadelphia!
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Oh, and about special occasions...
July is a special month for me because, uhm, its my birth month! CANCER month! Yes, indeed, I'm a crab! Proud of it, too! I can identify with many crabs in this life... such as the late Princess Diana
and his son, Prince William, as well as the brilliant, Tom Hanks, and the eternally youthful and innovative, Tom Cruise. Let's not talk about Elon Musk though... because we want to talk happy and good, right? He's a great engineer though... I give him that.
Anyway, speaking of Tom Cruise... I found out on Instagram (IG) a few days ago that he is an ARMY. Well, in the IG post, he sang the first two lines of "Butter" - and with gusto, too. Hahaha... and speaking of ARMY, the fandom make July even more special for me because the 9th of July is ARMY's birthday! Having officially joined the fandom lately, I feel happy that I can celebrate my own birthday with ARMY's birthday. Yaay!
So, when my sister and I reached home, at the suggestion of my brother-in-law, we went to harvest ripe raspberries at the backyard. And because, I didn't have cake to commemorate the special ARMY day, and it was too late to bake one, I opted for ice cream - Ben & Jerry's. Fortunately, I still had one of my favorite flavors, the Americone Dream, which was "vanilla ice cream with fudge-covered waffle cone pieces and a caramel swirl" (credit: description is from B&J's website). So, I had a proper ARMY birthday celebration commemorated with ice cream topped with fresh raspberries - straight from the backyard garden!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ARMY! 💜🎊
And to celebrate this occasion, let's dance to one of my favorite 'old' BTS songs, "Anpanman"... because, heaven knows, I need a hero right now!
I chose this because this is one of the first BTS songs that caught my attention four years ago... the rest is history. Also, the graphics in their background has the most semblance to Hobi's Jack-in-the-box album cover, which we are also celebrating these days! Hobi is awesome in this video... and in this one, too, which is another live performance of Anpanman.
Alright... the queue is moving - FINALLY! Outta here... for now.
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IMAGE CREDIT: All photos in this post are mine - I took them, and processed them, solely for this post.
VIDEO CREDIT: The owner of the video is indicated in the video credit, BangtanTV. Thanks, YouTube, for the video link.
Footnote:"Namjooning" - per BTS explanation, it is the "act of living as Kim Nam-Joon. This includes taking walks through parks, admiring nature, hanging out with crabs, and having fun with friends" (Reference: Click here.). Kim Nam-Joon, also known as "RM" (short for, originally, "Rap Monster"), is the leader of the South Korean group, BTS.
When the world-famous young men from South Korea that makes up the global phenomenon, BTS, announced in their yearly debut anniversary dinner, FESTA, on 14 June 2022, how they wish to proceed after the launch of their 'comeback' album, "Proof", there was a plethora of reactions. The most surprising of these 'reactions' was that of the stock market! There was a 28% drop in the market value of HYBE, the day after FESTA 2022 was aired via YouTube. HYBE is the Korean music company that represents BTS whose main revenue is the haul by BTS. In its US album sales and streams alone, a whopping 27% is comprised of those of BTS's while its earnings from concerts and tours are almost solely coming from BTS. As such, to continue being viable, they keep BTS on very tight schedule all year-round.
BTS Fandom 101
A huge player in BTS record sales and streams is its fandom, the ARMY. It is as phenomenal as BTS in that it is freakishly formidable in size, and in reach, which is inclusive and global, as in G.L.O.B.A.L.! Each ARMY's commitment in his/her patronage of anything coming from BTS is unheard of. Almost each ARMY has a 'bias', which is a BTS member that they favor a little bit more than the other six members. They sometimes switch favorites from their 'bias' to their 'bias wrecker' (another member who distracts an ARMY devotion to his/her bias, and draws attention by his talents or good looks or humor or all of the above)... and back again. Sometimes, they do this switching often enough until one becomes their 'constant', and the remaining member becomes or stays as 'bias'... while another member becomes the new 'bias wrecker'. I know this process very well because I've gone from having a bias to having a bias and a bias wrecker... to having a constant, a bias and a bias wrecker. I do remain a BIG FAN of all seven members, and adore them collectively as BTS.
One can become a 'card-carrying' ARMY by registering and paying annual membership fee via the fandom platform, Weverse. The are many benefits to being a registered ARMY, among them are getting advanced information regarding concerts and tours, BTS merchandise, and networking regarding one another's activities related to BTS, and activities of various ARMY groups scattered around the globe that celebrate BTS. While all seven members of BTS have their own Instagram accounts where they post photos and videos of their whereabouts and what they are up to, they often communicate real time with ARMY via Weverse. They either post their thoughts, photos and/or videos to communicate with ARMY. Sometimes, they post comments on ARMY's posts just to have their presence felt. The fandom platform has translation function that allows non-Korean ARMY to understand BTS members' posts and comments.
And speaking of real time communication, VLive is another platform utilized by BTS to communicate with ARMY via live video. ARMY can post comments real time, and the BTS member/s may respond real time as well. When there are collective BTS undertakings, they all go on VLive as a group. In some cases, individual members go on VLive to update ARMY on their individual undertakings, or just to stay in touch.
There are 'solo stans', too. They are those who loyally follow and support one member of BTS whom they consider their idol. They are different with ARMY in that they are 'extremely' possessive of their idol, and they care very little about the other BTS members, if at all. In extreme cases, solo stans even become 'haters' of other BTS members who they feel are competing with and taking away attention from their idol.
Proof
On the last night of their four-night "Permission to Dance on Stage - Las Vegas" concert held at the Allegiant Stadium on April 8-16, a teaser on "Proof" was released. This is a three-CD compilation album that charts the journey of BTS from the new seven-member boyband managed by a small Korean record level that was on the verge of bankruptcy to a global phenomenon that they are today. Among others, they started out singing angrily about strict school policies that put a lot of stress on students, unrequited young love, and other struggles and adventures of young people. They caught the attention of young people like them because of the theme of their songs, the distinct sound that they make, which is a combination of beautiful singing and skillful rapping, with song lyrics that represent the innermost thoughts of people of their age who were too insecure and lonely to articulate their feelings. In a way, BTS became the 'spokespersons' of a generation that was struggling to define itself amid a world that has gone insane due to bickering selfish adults who expected a lot from them but never gave them the support that they need!
The distinct sound that BTS make come from two lines in their seven-member group: (1) the "vocal line", and (2) the "rap line". The four-member vocal line is composed of: (1) Jeon Jung Kook (or "JK") - the youngest in the group, or, "maknae", referred to specifically as "golden maknae" because of his extraordinary talents that allow him to sing, dance and perform on stage with such enviable skills among many other things that he does so well inside and outside BTS. JK is also the lead vocalist because he can take a song to whichever direction, high or low, sweet or tough, happy or sad, due to a beautiful surreal-sounding voice of 'stretchable range' that does not seem to have a limit because he is so skillful in maneuvering it... and he gets better still. He is every record producer's dream, indeed! His good looks and athleticism give him an advantage as a performer in that he can always nail a well-coordinated move that pleases the eye; (2) Kim Seokjin (or "Jin", the oldest among the seven members, therefore, everyone's 'hyung', and splendidly lives up to this, too, by being good-natured, wise and gallant... when he's not being hysterically hilarious, that is) who is considered as the most effective balladeer of the vocal line (and, perhaps, in the whole K-Pop now) due to a wide-range voice that he can fill with tremendous emotions, matched by a handsome face that turns any song to an irresistible love song. With his skills, it is impossible to believe that he never planned to become an Idol as he is obviously cut for it; (3) Park Jimin, who is a singer with a unique voice timbre that balances the all-male sound of BTS, and yet, he can easily power his voice with a knockout punch. Being a trained classical dance performer, he is able to bring a dance choreography to a 'lifeform' that is unrivaled in K-Pop for its fluidity, grace, and daredevil quality. In that small frame of his, he has the biggest swag in the group that packs the wildest adrenalin pump. He is able to interpret a BTS song with his wonderful dancing and vocal prowess that leave ARMY and non-ARMY in awe; and (4) Kim Taehyung (or, "V"), the owner of a beautifully thick vocal that seems to emerge from a deep (deep, deep and deeper still) well, and unloaded in their songs either like a lovely garnish in a slow romantic whisper, or like a punch in the gut in a powerful rocking snarl, matched by a larger-than-life stylish image that he, and only he, owns, too. He projects his jaw-dropping handsome face in a certain angle, sings his part with mobster's confidence, winks (baaaad!), and turns to dance without missing a beat and without creasing his attire - very, very cool!
The rap line is, in my humble opinion, what makes BTS the group to beat worldwide. They add a variety of musical textures to the beautiful sounds that the vocal line makes. Together, they put BTS in a level that is just too difficult to rival. The rap line is composed of three extremely talented music artists who have a lot to say... and can say them with such eloquence and unabashed confidence. They are: (1) Rap Monster (or "RM"), whose real name is Kim Nam-Joon. He is the leader of BTS, although younger than three other members. RM is the intellectual in the group who might be responsible in hauling fans who are 'seasoned' in their respective professional practice. He is not only a creative poet who can compose a rhyme that a multitude of ARMY can relate with and respected rappers can clap their hands to, but he can also recite them with beautiful enunciation and deep rhythmic voice, creating a rap concoction that makes for a distinct BTS sound; (2) Min Yoongi (or "SUGA", short for "shooting guard" - his position in basketball), who has become a prolific record producer over the years, is arguably the genius of BTS. He composes verses that are both in-your-face relatable and enigmatic, and recites them with incredible skills that leave the listeners breathless and just about enough amount of sarcasm and attitude - with a sassy facial expression, and a tone to match; and (3) Jung Hoseok (or, J-Hope, or Hobi) who is a unique rapper in that he can sing well, too... and an awesome performer who can slay the heck out of any death-defying dance choreography! He writes his verses in a way that's relatable, and drawls them huskily with his raspy powerful voice in a way that gives life to the mere words to become the voice of a generation! Like JK, he is an extremely versatile artist with such high-level and reliable quality that, "when Hobi is on it, consider it done, and done well!"
With such a load of talents, BTS is a music powerhouse like no other! All members can dance very well, so that, when they are altogether on stage, their dancing skills, and their personalities that blend so well due to deep rapport, they bring their songs to a level of performance that hits the listener so hard, it's never possible to recover! It's an instantaneous baptism to become an ARMY. As such, they are the most sought after artists, not only by fans and large companies that are seeking effective endorsers, but by their fellow artists around the world who are looking to gain access to their undeniable 'magic' for collaboration.
🎜 "There were a lot of changes, but
I'm still the same, a new chapter
every moment is my new best...
...dream and hope and goin' forward
We so about it..." 🎝
"Proof" embodies all of the above. The songs were selected to represent the various stages of development of BTS. However, there are three new songs: (1) the emotional retrospective of a song that is both melancholy and hopeful, "Yet to Come", giving the listener, especially ARMY, the feeling that BTS has reached a fork in their career road, and making a decision which path to take; (2) the touching song of reflection and camaraderie between the members, and between BTS and ARMY, "For Youth"; and (3) the upbeat song that is both reflective and sassy, "Run BTS", which gives the members the chance to look back to their humble beginnings, how much they have accomplished, and how they are shaking themselves off dusts of criticisms from non-believers.
'Hiatus'? 'Break'? 'Focus on individual undertakings'? 'Limited group activities'?
At the 2022 FESTA where the BTS members had their annual dinner where they celebrated the 9th anniversary of their debut in 2013, per their FESTA tradition, they looked back to what has been, and look forward to what's to become. The event was pre-recorded at their old apartment where they lived together as a group. Their lease was ending this year, and they wanted to re-visit the place to rekindle memories. The event was streamed on YouTube on 14 June 2022. As usual, the members bantered over dinner, and it was hilarious!
At some point in the celebration, the conversation among members turned from laugh-out-loud funny to sober... emotional. ARMY assumed that it was only because of old memories triggered by their old place, and the prior release of "Proof". And then SUGA mentioned "hiatus" casually, at least, what he said was translated to "hiatus" via close captioning/translation function on YouTube. And then, RM gave each person a chance to speak... in which everyone spoke emotionally. There were consistent mentions of getting mentally, emotionally and physically tired, and the need to take a break from BTS to do their own thing for the time being. When his turn to speak came, RM spoke so emotionally that he broke down. As that was so out of RM's character, each one broke down then... including the usually devoid-of-emotion SUGA. JK had to cover his eyes with napkin as he was crying so much. It was obvious that the gentlemen have been contemplating a much needed break, and when the opportunity to speak about it with ARMY came, the floodgates of emotions just gave way... and a true ARMY can only empathize.
There were a variety of emotions from ARMY worldwide. It was like the whole world was going on a collective spontaneous meltdown! At the height of the FESTA 'chaos', it was the maknae, JK, who categorically clarified right there and then that "it's not like we're disbanding or something," and such straight-forward pronouncement was where ARMY hinged their hopes on. JK went on VLive soon after that to stress his point.
Surprisingly, after the initial shock... there was a flood of support from ARMY to the boys, encouraging them to do whatever they feel was best for them with a promise that they will wait until the young men are ready to return to pick up where they left off. It was a thoroughly beautiful moment. It was like ARMY shutting the door to shield BTS from the outside world, protecting them, allowing them a moment of private grief... giving them time to reflect, contemplate their individual and collective future, and decide where they wish to take BTS and ARMY next. With such fandom maturity, once again, BTS was elevated to another level of superstardom... and with the stock market going on meltdown by the mere mention of "hiatus" unofficially, there was no doubt what impact they made on the world - it was phenomenal, and definitely, never-been-seen-before. RM's leadership reached a new height as well, proving that strength in character and leadership can also be expressed in openness to vulnerability... making himself even more accessible to ARMY now.
BigHit since clarified what the members plan to do, which is to pursue individual projects. They made it clear that BTS will not be on 'hiatus' as they will still be working as a group on some projects. They denied any plan of disbanding. Currently, the members are pursuing individual projects... still related to music, visual arts, and the music industry. Their fandom remained engaged and supportive, and BTS continue to dominate the global music industry.
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Video credits: Thanks to Bangtan TV for the videos, and to YouTube for the video links.
