Xu Weilin ClaraConcert Review: Gary Kang Showcase
South Korean rapper Kang Gary took to the stage at the Kallang Theater last Friday night in his debut showcase and he wasted no time in warming up the crowd with his latest single, “Zotto Mola”.
The 36 year old spews impactful verses and ignites the hip-hop crowd into a groove. Living up to his reputation as half of hip-hop group LeeSSang, Gary works the fans with “Shower Later”, another hit from his latest EP, Mr. Gae. Naturally, the audience jives along to the song’s jazz-influenced catchy melody.
Even with the absence of his partner, Gil, who is also known as the vocalist of LeeSSang, the hip-hop musician delivers not just smooth rapping but singing as well. The audience sings along to the chorus with Gary as he performs 2 of their most well-received singles. “You’re The Answer to a Guy Like Me” and “The Girl Who Can’t Break Up, The Guy Who Can’t Leave”.
For any musician, rapping and singing back-to-back is indeed no small feat, yet this incredible singer manages to pull it off with gusto.
Couple of Singers
Gary brings on his frequent collaborator, songstress Jung In, to perform some of their duets. One of them is “Your Scent”, which topped several Korean music charts. The duo was invited last August to perform at Nanyang Technological University’s fundraiser carnival.
The pair, who’ve known each other for 10 years, show off their effortless chemistry in their recent hit, “Bicycle”. Jung In wows with her goosebump-inducing timbre, while Gary shows off his hip-hop attitude and his languorous rapping. It might have looked like an odd pairing on paper, but the duet work wonders with the audience.
Missing Ji Hyo
Besides being a rapper, Gary is known for his role on the popular Korean variety show, Running Man. However, the gentleman is even more known for his on-screen relationship with Song Ji Hyo, the actress who was in Singapore recently. The pair is widely known as the Monday Couple, as filming for the show usually happens on a Monday.
Nonetheless, Gary seems pretty hung up over his charming co-star. While the emcee tries to teach him to pronounce “chio” (pretty in Hokkien), Gary suddenly exclaims cheekily, “Ji Hyo” to laughter from the audience.
The hopeless romantic concludes with a hilarious phrase, “Singapore, chio chio! Korea, Ji Hyo!”
Green with Envy
Ever wondered how it feels like to be serenaded by an idol with a birthday song? One lucky fan knows.
During the Q&A segment of the showcase, Gary is asked to pick a random question posted by his fans. He began reading the notes from the board, “My friend, Wendy, is turning 21 soon. Can you sing her (a) happy birthday song? English or Chinese… also can.”
Sitting a few rows away from the stage is Wendy, who covers her mouth in astonishment, as Gary makes his way downstage to specially give her a birthday hug. The sincere singer even invites everyone to sing along to the birthday song.
Classic Gentleman
At the showcase, we see the humble side of Gary, who never let fame get into his head. “To me, all of you just coming here to support me and when I sing, following to my lyrics and to my song – that’s the best gift I can ever ask for,” he expressed sincerely.
Since there isn’t a moshpit, the ever-thoughtful Gary invites fans to the front of the stage to join him in singing “Rush”, LeeSSang’s debut song featuring Jung In. According to entertainment and lifestyle e-zine KAvenyou, the passionate entertainer mentioned that it was a “shame that fans are too far from him”.
“The next time I’m back, we will have a standing only event,” he concluded. We’re sure the fan girls don’t mind one bit, as long they’re near him.
Photographs courtesy of Fast Track Events
Setlist for Gary’s Showcase (featuring Jung In)
Zotto Mola
Shower Later
You’re The Answer to a Guy Like Me
[Q&A + Games + Introducing Guest Singer Jung In]
Bicycle
Your Scent
The Girl Who Can’t Break Up, The Guy Who Can’t Leave
Drunken Night Tune
Rush