Gents, thanks for the reaction. My favorite moment was when both of you leaned back when Sohyang decided to go high again with her belting. Sohyang is a true world-class voice with a delivery that can touch one's soul.
So Hyang is simply spectacular! This is just another drop in her very large bucket. I think this might be the best live performance of this particular number in the history of music. You are so right. Whitney would love So Hyang, and they could definitely talk shop at the same table. So Hyang's 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' (KBS TV K-POP version) is another where she tears the roof off (along with a lot of other English singing songs). She has many, many Korean songs as well that are absolutely unbelievable ('Everyone' and 'Arirang Alone' to name a couple). You are in for a wonderful and beautiful ride. Thanks for the great reaction!
loved whitney growing up how sohyang generates so much power in that tiny frame off hers is beyond me world class is what she is never heard anyone like her beautiful human being ass well love from the uk
We all wonder if Sohyang is human or from another planet. Current odds are that she’s from another planet, with an outside chance she’s actually an angel come down from Heaven. 😇 We have never heard anyone sing like her, or be able to hold an audience in the palm of her hand until she lets them go. Her voice is, as one person described it, like liquid gold. Perfection in clarity and pitch, and she doesn’t fade in the upper octaves, which is startling when you hear her hit those 5th and 6th octave notes with such _POWER_ it actually gives everyone goose bumps-and makes us bald guys’ hair stand on end! As she says, her voice “is from God.” She does all the musical arrangements herself, with the input of her in-law family and musical assistants, teaches vocal technique at a South Korean university and speaks five languages: Korean, English, French, Vietnamese and Chinese, as well as reading Greek! Let me catch my breath. OK. She is a cancer survivor from uterine cancer at the age of 20, just after getting married, and states very plainly that God saved her life due to the prayers of her church. But this left her without the ability to have children so she decided to dedicate her life to being a Contemporary Christian Gospel singer and has refused recording contracts from the biggest corporations in the world. She only wants to sing for charities, churches and while doing missionary work, to strengthen those suffering through difficult times. David Foster, Josh Groban, Michael Bolton and others have all eagerly worked with her when they were in Asia. She contracted hepatitis B from a blood transfusion during her cancer surgery and it clings to her to this day. Because of this she is prone to catching pneumonia but has sang perfectly while suffering from it in her live performance of “You Raise Me Up” before Shane Filan of Westlife on South Korean TV: ruclips.net/video/te_L9ofhUt8/видео.html She has asked those who love her singing to pray that God keep pneumonia away from her, she has suffered from it on so many occasions. Imagine how she must feel with this coronavirus floating around everywhere! She just turned 46 on April 5, 2024, though in Korean culture she would be 47 because you are deemed to be one year old when you are born. She was about 37 when she sang this version of “Arirang Alone,” their unofficial national anthem based on a 600 year old folk song expressing their desire to reunify north and south: vimeo.com/308253527 While being sick with pneumonia eight times from 2016 through to 2020, and considering giving up singing altogether, she decided to enter a televised singing contest called “King of the Masked Singers” in 2017 and won six consecutive times, which has catapulted her into international attention from the performances being posted on RUclips. Whitney Houston’s former manager saw her on RUclips and showed her to Oprah Winfrey, who brought her to David Foster’s attention. Foster then contacted Sohyang and went to Japan in order to have her perform eight concerts with him at Tokyo’s famous Blue Note Club in late-2018. For those who don't know, David Foster was Whitney Houston's producer for some of her songs, wrote "I Have Nothing," her most iconic song, and is the most famous and influential music producer in the world. He places Sohyang right beside Whitney and the rest of the top tier divas. Here is the interview where Sohyang related the events: ruclips.net/video/EqeE_1nP-Kk/видео.html (Be sure to turn on English subtitles.) Here is the version of “I Have Nothing” Oprah, David Foster, Whitney's former manager and the rest watched on RUclips: ruclips.net/video/T4UyIMkdy4M/видео.html She preceded it with this blockbuster: vimeo.com/312061203 She could be an international Super Star if she wanted to be but has decided that it would ruin her spiritually, quoting Proverbs 16:25 “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.” In a South Korean television interview Sohyang conceded that she struggled with her desire for fame for a number of years, going into the basement in her home numerous times and closing the door so she could complain vehemently to God that He was holding her back from becoming famous due to her health problems and other unforeseeable events. Then she later saw a Korean TV drama where the talented daughter of a very successful businessman was positive she would take over when her father retired. But he left the management of the company to a woman she hated, so she had a fit and lay kicking and screaming on the floor. Sohyang says she saw herself in that young woman and then understood that God was keeping her from developing self-destructive character by withholding international celebrity status from her. ruclips.net/video/rl-jX9kBsEs/видео.html (Again, turn on English subtitles.) So as a consequence she does not pursue fame or fortune and actually has no interactive social media presence whatsoever. What can one say about such a person? She is a literal Wonder Woman! And we need about a billion more just like her! And whether Sohyang likes it or not, fame has found her, run her over and then backed up and run over her again! On Oct. 5, 2020, it was revealed that Sohyang turned down _yet another_ contract offer, this time from Sony Music US. www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200921000995 “Debuting in [the] US was my utmost goal for the past 20 years. But when I got a call from the US agency, I politely rejected, as I realized that what I wanted most was not becoming famous,” she said. “I think singers are very susceptible to arrogance, especially when they hear the screaming from crowds on stage. It can make you feel like as if you’ve become God.” “And I’m perfectly okay with sharing my music via RUclips, which can reach tens of millions of people all over the world without making me feel stuck up. Maybe that’s why I was born in this era.” Sohyang is just the most amazing singer, Christian and human being. She is beautiful both inside and out, and so humble and genuine, with a stage charisma, facial expressions and smile that is off the charts. In Korean dictionaries 소향--Sohyang--has several meanings. • First is a type of Korean traditional music. • Second is to burn incense on a burner. • Third is to go toward. But these meanings are rarely used today. Sohyang is also the name of a heroine in a Korean traditional novel. Yet for the definitive answer Sohyang has stated in an interview that her name means "enjoy the light." Her grandmother named her. Please analyze her performance of “Bridge Over Troubled Water”: ruclips.net/video/C6iHh4yBxCo/видео.html Also, please react to her version of “The Power of Love”: ruclips.net/video/LrNkVRrK7_I/видео.html Plus this beautiful duet with her friend Lee Hi where they do Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons’ “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You”: vimeo.com/439148918 And this version of her singing “Oh Holy Night”: vimeo.com/322716334 Here she performs “Lean On Me” before Michael Bolton, who called her a vocal “virtuoso” after her performance: ruclips.net/video/GvsgCllcNPE/видео.html Wait until you see her duet of David Foster's “The Prayer” with Jeong Ui Geu: ruclips.net/video/rte-q3kunp8/видео.html Her performance of "Fate" in Korean requires no translation: vimeo.com/198161448 And finally “Will You Be There”: ruclips.net/video/nBdSpexUxik/видео.html Here’s an English language interview with her that I’m sure you will enjoy: ruclips.net/video/N2u_pmoWxj8/видео.html Her English is perfect when she sings and almost perfect when she is doing interviews. OK, I’ll stop gushing now. Well, one more gush. In an interview with a Turkish music producer Sohyang's assistants revealed (a bit to her chagrin, as she is a self-effacing person) that she can hit Eb7 and D7 in practise. However, she never goes above the 6th octave in performances. Since she starts at D3 that is more than a 4 octave range ... so how about them apples???! Here it is: ruclips.net/video/VnPAkryrygQ/видео.html I know, bananas isn’t it? Oh, I just remembered, she is also a published fantasy novelist and has a theological treatise on the Book of Revelation in print. In addition, she is a very good stage actress, which she proved by playing Julie Andrews’ part in the South Korean stage production of “The Sound of Music.” Moreover, she sang the “Moana” part in the Korean version of the Disney film, does the musical vocals for many South Korean television dramas, and is a talented artist and cartoonist. She taught herself English by watching Disney's "The Little Mermaid" 'about one hundred times' when she was just a kid, speaks English with a _perfect_ North American accent and has an outgoing and bubbly personality. She can also play the piano and guitar. Is there anything this genius level woman can’t do? Ironically, Sohyang stated in another interview that both she and her in-law family were surprised to discover that she could sing so excellently! Though she is maybe 5' 4" and only about 100 pounds, Sohyang simply transcends the thresholds of music and takes you there with her. She becomes the song when she sings it, and then re-emerges when she is done. An experience like no other. I don’t know what else to say. I’ve spent _entire days_ listening to her, and shed more than a few tears of joy along the way. I really must also compliment the choir, orchestra and audio/video production people Sohyang works with. They are all top notch from what I can see and hear, and that is important to note as these are _essential_ elements of any great musical production. The Korean people are easily as talented as anyone else. As you can see, I am a shameless fan. 😉
PS Sohyang can still sing this rendition of "I Have Nothing" note for note perfectly today! She has done so numerous times this year of 2024 at the age of 46!
i never thought anyone could touch Whitney, but Sohyang is literally next level. Not just her technical abilities but her feel is uncanny. Please react to her Begin Again performance of the jazz classic Misty and also her singing Mona Lisa (King of Masked Singer performance) -- it's a K-pop rocking song and her versatility is astounding!
Sohyang's singing is shockingly beautiful. If a person has never heard her sing before it is truly a stop and listen moment, and she easily outperforms Whitney Houston. As Sohyang says, "You must be born with a good voice, but then work very hard to improve it." She almost eats, sleeps and breathes music. Here is what David Foster, who wrote the song and produced it for Whitney, had to say about Sohyang in an interview with South Korean media site _Naver_ on December 10, 2018, only a week after doing eight concerts with her at Tokyo's Blue Note Club. “I wanted to meet her very much, and I am delighted to have collaborated in putting together a concert. Here is how I got to know about Sohyang. Oprah Winfrey introduced me to 'a stunningly amazing singer whose video is a must watch.' I fell in love at once with Sohyang's first video I watched on RUclips, 'I Have Nothing.' It was _thrilling,_ and I searched to listen to most of her other songs as well. I have wanted to meet her for a long time. She is one of the top divas I've come across." David Foster didn't hold back praise. "Her voice is very beautiful and overwhelming, and I found her every performance to be emotionally moving and amazing. Moving forward, I want to collaborate again!" It was actually Whitney Houston's former manager, almost certainly her sister in law Pat Houston, who found this performance on RUclips and showed it to Oprah Winfrey. 🤷♂👌💘 Sohyang was named by her grandmother, whom she believes God inspired with the name even though neither her parents nor grandmother were Christians. Her name means "enjoy the light" as people have correctly informed me. Sohyang's favourite movie star is Brad Pitt. Like "duh," eh? What woman doesn't love Brad Pitt? Ha, ha! 😎 Sohyang is a 100% self-taught singer except for five sessions with Seth Riggs, which she didn't talk about in the interview I learned this from, so I think she had her Seth Riggs lessons after 2009 when this interview was recorded. She said she spent time with one of the producers of Boyz II Men while on vacation in California and learned either vocal technique or audio recording technique or both because he had a home recording studio. When she watches movies she doesn't take her hubby along because she wants to concentrate on the film without anyone interrupting or talking to her. Sorry hubby, but you can be so distracting and annoying at the movies! 😝 Sohyang likes action movies! She carries her Bible with her most places. It is an English New International Version and she tries to read five chapters a day, because it helps her stay fresh on her English. Oh yes, Sohyang wanted to be involved in musicals on stage but was offered the role of Carmen, which she turned down because Carmen was a prostitute. It sounded like she was offered prostitute roles repeatedly, so she more or less gave up on anything operatic. Though, of course, she did appear in "The Sound of Music." She is just one of those naturally wholesome women, and I think that is one of the reasons we like her. 😇❤ Sohyang is also analytic to the nth degree! She will listen to a song she likes over and over until she is satisfied she knows it inside out. The bass line, the drums, the vocals. She keeps going until she has almost worn out the recording. Well, she didn't say that last part but it is pretty obvious that she knows her music and when she decides to cover a song, she is going to cover it like it has never been covered before! And don't we all know it!?!! 🎸👍💘🎸
Welcome to the world of SoHyang~!!! She is CCM/GOSPEL SINGER of South KOREA and cancer survivor. . She is one of the greatest vocalist in the world.But She wasn't known as well as popular because She sing for GOD and Comfort people who has hardtime Not for fame or money. ..In her youth, she turned down all offers from mega agencies for her beliefs...and now she is 46years old. .She has so many legendary live performances . She always sings with sincerity whenever and wherever. So it comforts those who listen to her song...That's why I love her...And her singing skills are the best, not to mention... This performance is just tip of iceberg.. . Thanks for your reaction of Queen Sohyang ♥
Wait till you see her casually doing acapella for over 20 mins in her recent video title: Korea's Top Singer Sohyang Surprises Americans by Singing the U.S. National Anthem! Enjoy LOL
so hyang--bridge over troubled water/i have nothing/o holy night/arirang alone/everyone/upon this rock/us national anthem/hero/power of love/let it go/breathe/hug me/amazing grace/i will always love you/misty/ if i ain't got you
You both are charming and your analysis spot on. If you feel like another, she covers Whitney's, "I Will Always Love You" (outdoor version best) that will surely not disappoint.
CriticOfMusic gave Céline Dion an A-. Here are the ones who got a Star rating: STAR - Incredible technical proficiency marked by performance consistency and intonation accuracy as well as great musicality. The golden standard. Aretha Franklin Beyonce Mariah Carey Michael Jackson So Hyang Whitney Houston
김소향 (Kim, So-hyang) is a South Korean singer who uses 소향 (Sohyang) as her stage name. She's up there with Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Céline Dion, according to David Foster, who worked with all of them, plus other big names in the music industry, such as Aretha Franklin, Barbra Streisand, Stevie Wonder, and Michael Jackson. In fact, many vocal coaches and critics call her the Queen, and Dimash the King. Here are several links to excellent performances by Sohyang. Many are from competitions where she pulls out all the stops and goes into vocal beast mode. The last 5 are more restrained. You can alternate between the styles, just to experience the contrasts and see her range of abilities. All are live, except for a music video of "Never Enough" (since we can never get enough of Sohyang). I Am a Singer Legend: ruclips.net/video/T4UyIMkdy4M/видео.html "I Have Nothing" [Whitney Houston] ruclips.net/video/CFtRUSPxcas/видео.html (camera only on Sohyang) ruclips.net/video/n71eIWRmEtY/видео.html "꿈 (Dream)" [소향 (Sohyang)] {Korean} Immortal Songs 2: ruclips.net/video/C6iHh4yBxCo/видео.html "Bridge Over Troubled Water" [Simon & Garfunkel] ruclips.net/video/zFyndK9VOCk/видео.html "홀로 아리랑 (Arirang Alone)" [traditional Korean folksong, lyrics adapted for reunification of North & South Koreas] {Korean} ruclips.net/video/GvsgCllcNPE/видео.html "Lean On Me" [Bill Withers, Jr.; Michael Bolton guest] ruclips.net/video/te_L9ofhUt8/видео.html "You Raise Me Up" [Secret Garden; Shane Filan (Westlife) guest] ruclips.net/video/H5e7MPre7iY/видео.html "여러분 (Everyone)" [윤복희 (Yoon, Bok-hee)] {Korean, English} I Am a Singer 2: ruclips.net/video/YwgF3Gylu-0/видео.html "O Holy Night" [Adolphe Charles Adam] King of Masked Singers: ruclips.net/video/a_lOAgti7XQ/видео.html "모나리자 (Mona Lisa)" [조용필 (Cho, Yong-pil)] {Korean, English} ruclips.net/video/0qBSPPi3ESM/видео.html "Home (집)" [박효신 (Park, Hyo-shin)] {Korean, English} Begin Again Korea: ruclips.net/video/lSzb6a0PkQU/видео.html "Flashlight" with 이수현 (Lee, Su-hyun) [Jessie J] ruclips.net/video/_ivvpK3UMlw/видео.html "Misty" [Ella Fitzgerald] ruclips.net/video/DO845EqU3eE/видео.html "I Will Always Love You" [Dolly Parton] ruclips.net/video/k5WqGIPjqtc/видео.html "Never Enough" [Loren Allred] Open Concert: ruclips.net/video/vZyIdoRRKFo/видео.html "The Power of Love" [Jennifer Rush] BTW, Whitney's former manager saw the DMC Festival video of Sohyang singing "I Have Nothing", and contacted Oprah Winfrey, who in turn, contacted David Foster. They were all amazed. Foster invited Sohyang to sing on his tour in Asia. She did 8 shows in 4 days in Tokyo. He and his ex-wife wrote that song. He co-arranged and produced it for Whitney for her album, and her performance in "The Bodyguard". Foster has won 16 Grammy Awards, including 3 for Producer of the Year, and has been nominated a total of 47 times.
She is the best female vocalist in this world. Michael Bolton had a concert in Korea 2023, and she sang "Oh Holy Night" there, which was so powerful. ruclips.net/video/XCRT1qrNdIE/видео.html Another is "Upon this Rock," which she sang at the concert. ruclips.net/video/m9gSi3yk6g0/видео.html You have to listen to her best performance "everyone" ruclips.net/video/S9J1k_zmo24/видео.htmlsi=Lv13TpTgkbDYJFgB [Sohyang List] - You raise me up (Immortal songs 2) - Bridge over troubled water (Immortal songs 2) - I have nothing (I am a singer legend) - Lean on me (Immortal songs 2) - I'll always love you (begin again Korea) - Oh holy night (I am a singer 2) - Everyone (Immortal songs 2) - Arirang alone (Immortal songs 2) - Power of love (2014 live) - Never enough (begin again Korea) - Misty (begin again Korea) - I'll be there (begin again Korea) - I won't give up (Open Concert) - Amazing Grace (Global Church Blessing 2020) - Mona lisa (King Of Masked Singer) - Fate (I am a singer 2) - Wild flower (Immortal songs 2) - Where are you (I am a singer 2) - Dear love (King Of Masked Singer) - Never Ending story (I am a singer 2) - If I ain't got you (begin again Korea) - The prayer (Jeong Ui Geun & So hyang) - My favorite things (begin again Korea) - As I live (I am a singer 2) - Breathe (King Of Masked Singer)
If you want to focus on the technical aspects of singing, you can view the vocal transcriptions of the performances of "I Have Nothing", comparing Whitney Houston vs Sohyang. You can nerd out on the score, and even try them out on your keyboard to see the key shifts. "I Have Nothing" Whitney vs Sohyang ruclips.net/video/9eJ31Ii4GNc/видео.html (English captions) ruclips.net/video/k-pJU6aLtdo/видео.html (Korean captions)
Take no offense to this guys, but you’re been around the block a few times. When you reacted to her the first time, I realized you have seen a lot in your times and you were not going to be easily impressed. That’s why this time, I was more than pleased you did give her the flowers and respect she deserves. I hope you continue down this incredible rabbit hole of my all time favorite singers (and humans). Thanks guys.
IMHO, the Adele song is no challenge for Sohyang. It takes a world class singer to beat Whitney's version of this song, and Sohyang does that in spades.
Thank You Guys ! This Humble Korean Gospel Singer is one of, if not the Best Vocalist I have ever heard! David Foster who wrote this for Whitney, has taken her to Japan to do a week long 13 shows in 7 days Celebration of the famous Blue Note Club he helped open ! Many others like Micheal Bolton ,Kirk Franklin and Josh Groban have went to Korea and asked to be in their concerts! She turned down all three of the big Record Companies( Sony being the last) and many Asian Recording Companies, because she want to sing what she wants and have a Family life and time for her Musical Gospel Ministry! She is quite the Lady and devoted Christian( the Kind that Walk the Walk, not just Talk the Talk ) please do more! Here is a modern Gospel song she wrote with one of the two Gentlemen she is Performing with- one on her left side ! SoHyang and Petra Freedom composed by SoHyang and Petra ruclips.net/video/5-WPK-DlZ3Y/видео.html Also this magnificent duet with a marvellous Baritone Wild Flower Immortal Songs 2 SoHyang and Min Woohyuk ruclips.net/video/QsPC57wLwWQ/видео.html This has English subtitles
Heavenly songbird healing wounded souls. SoHyang, the Queen. What we need is a global hit from her, but SoHyang refuses to sign deals with major agencies who can offer her those creative pieces. She then goes around performing in small stages, churches and events intended to heal wounded souls with that mesmerizing smile and warmth. Remarkable person.
Her full name is "김소향 (Kim, So-hyang)", but she leaves out her surname in her stage name, "소향 (Sohyang)". Here's the breakdown of the Hangul symbols in her full name: 김소향 (Kim, So-hyang) 김 = ㄱ ㅣ ㅁ (k i m) 소 = ㅅ ㅗ (s o) 향 = ㅎ ㅑ ㅇ (h ya ng) Google Translate in Detect Language mode pronounces them decently. However, the proper pronunciation of her stage name can be heard before the start of her Immortal Songs 2 performance of "Bridge Over Troubled Water", when the host introduces her as "SOH hee-yahng". The "hee" part is very quick and subtle, almost like a puff of air after the "h" sound carried over from the stressed "SOH" syllable. Note that the "ahng" sound uses the first and last phonemes (syllable components) of "awe" and "song", respectively; it isn't "uhng" or "ohng" as too many non-Korean folks claim.
The problem is there are so many ways of pronouncing an "a" in English. That makes it impossible for any English speaker to pronounce it satisfactorily for a native Korean speaker. There may be a few who can do it but I wouldn't hold my breath waiting to find one, LOL!
Gents, thanks for the reaction. My favorite moment was when both of you leaned back when Sohyang decided to go high again with her belting. Sohyang is a true world-class voice with a delivery that can touch one's soul.
Me too 😂😂
Yeah, it looked like they were literally being blown out of their socks when Sohyang hit those ascending notes Yukuo! 😮🤣😂😏
Witney is listening
Sohyang's crayon box is so much bigger than that of any other artist.
Defiantly, we both love her. 👍
"Far too much talent for this planet." You can say that again! Thanks for the reaction. I'm looking forward to more.
That is what was going through my head from the start I had to blurt it out lol
So Hyang is simply spectacular! This is just another drop in her very large bucket. I think this might be the best live performance of this particular number in the history of music. You are so right. Whitney would love So Hyang, and they could definitely talk shop at the same table. So Hyang's 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' (KBS TV K-POP version) is another where she tears the roof off (along with a lot of other English singing songs). She has many, many Korean songs as well that are absolutely unbelievable ('Everyone' and 'Arirang Alone' to name a couple). You are in for a wonderful and beautiful ride. Thanks for the great reaction!
Thanks for watching and your welcome and valued comment. 👍
loved whitney growing up how sohyang generates so much power in that tiny frame off hers is beyond me world class is what she is never heard anyone like her beautiful human being ass well love from the uk
Me 2 It's so heart-warming to hear this level of talent in 2024. 👍
Let’s go. She is just a next-level voice and stage presence.
next-level voice indeed .Thanks for watching and commenting.
We all wonder if Sohyang is human or from another planet. Current odds are that she’s from another planet, with an outside chance she’s actually an angel come down from Heaven. 😇 We have never heard anyone sing like her, or be able to hold an audience in the palm of her hand until she lets them go. Her voice is, as one person described it, like liquid gold. Perfection in clarity and pitch, and she doesn’t fade in the upper octaves, which is startling when you hear her hit those 5th and 6th octave notes with such _POWER_ it actually gives everyone goose bumps-and makes us bald guys’ hair stand on end! As she says, her voice “is from God.” She does all the musical arrangements herself, with the input of her in-law family and musical assistants, teaches vocal technique at a South Korean university and speaks five languages: Korean, English, French, Vietnamese and Chinese, as well as reading Greek!
Let me catch my breath. OK.
She is a cancer survivor from uterine cancer at the age of 20, just after getting married, and states very plainly that God saved her life due to the prayers of her church. But this left her without the ability to have children so she decided to dedicate her life to being a Contemporary Christian Gospel singer and has refused recording contracts from the biggest corporations in the world. She only wants to sing for charities, churches and while doing missionary work, to strengthen those suffering through difficult times. David Foster, Josh Groban, Michael Bolton and others have all eagerly worked with her when they were in Asia.
She contracted hepatitis B from a blood transfusion during her cancer surgery and it clings to her to this day. Because of this she is prone to catching pneumonia but has sang perfectly while suffering from it in her live performance of “You Raise Me Up” before Shane Filan of Westlife on South Korean TV: ruclips.net/video/te_L9ofhUt8/видео.html She has asked those who love her singing to pray that God keep pneumonia away from her, she has suffered from it on so many occasions. Imagine how she must feel with this coronavirus floating around everywhere!
She just turned 46 on April 5, 2024, though in Korean culture she would be 47 because you are deemed to be one year old when you are born. She was about 37 when she sang this version of “Arirang Alone,” their unofficial national anthem based on a 600 year old folk song expressing their desire to reunify north and south: vimeo.com/308253527
While being sick with pneumonia eight times from 2016 through to 2020, and considering giving up singing altogether, she decided to enter a televised singing contest called “King of the Masked Singers” in 2017 and won six consecutive times, which has catapulted her into international attention from the performances being posted on RUclips.
Whitney Houston’s former manager saw her on RUclips and showed her to Oprah Winfrey, who brought her to David Foster’s attention. Foster then contacted Sohyang and went to Japan in order to have her perform eight concerts with him at Tokyo’s famous Blue Note Club in late-2018. For those who don't know, David Foster was Whitney Houston's producer for some of her songs, wrote "I Have Nothing," her most iconic song, and is the most famous and influential music producer in the world. He places Sohyang right beside Whitney and the rest of the top tier divas.
Here is the interview where Sohyang related the events: ruclips.net/video/EqeE_1nP-Kk/видео.html (Be sure to turn on English subtitles.)
Here is the version of “I Have Nothing” Oprah, David Foster, Whitney's former manager and the rest watched on RUclips: ruclips.net/video/T4UyIMkdy4M/видео.html
She preceded it with this blockbuster: vimeo.com/312061203
She could be an international Super Star if she wanted to be but has decided that it would ruin her spiritually, quoting Proverbs 16:25 “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.”
In a South Korean television interview Sohyang conceded that she struggled with her desire for fame for a number of years, going into the basement in her home numerous times and closing the door so she could complain vehemently to God that He was holding her back from becoming famous due to her health problems and other unforeseeable events. Then she later saw a Korean TV drama where the talented daughter of a very successful businessman was positive she would take over when her father retired. But he left the management of the company to a woman she hated, so she had a fit and lay kicking and screaming on the floor. Sohyang says she saw herself in that young woman and then understood that God was keeping her from developing self-destructive character by withholding international celebrity status from her. ruclips.net/video/rl-jX9kBsEs/видео.html (Again, turn on English subtitles.)
So as a consequence she does not pursue fame or fortune and actually has no interactive social media presence whatsoever.
What can one say about such a person? She is a literal Wonder Woman! And we need about a billion more just like her! And whether Sohyang likes it or not, fame has found her, run her over and then backed up and run over her again!
On Oct. 5, 2020, it was revealed that Sohyang turned down _yet another_ contract offer, this time from Sony Music US. www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200921000995
“Debuting in [the] US was my utmost goal for the past 20 years. But when I got a call from the US agency, I politely rejected, as I realized that what I wanted most was not becoming famous,” she said.
“I think singers are very susceptible to arrogance, especially when they hear the screaming from crowds on stage. It can make you feel like as if you’ve become God.”
“And I’m perfectly okay with sharing my music via RUclips, which can reach tens of millions of people all over the world without making me feel stuck up. Maybe that’s why I was born in this era.”
Sohyang is just the most amazing singer, Christian and human being. She is beautiful both inside and out, and so humble and genuine, with a stage charisma, facial expressions and smile that is off the charts.
In Korean dictionaries 소향--Sohyang--has several meanings.
• First is a type of Korean traditional music.
• Second is to burn incense on a burner.
• Third is to go toward.
But these meanings are rarely used today. Sohyang is also the name of a heroine in a Korean traditional novel. Yet for the definitive answer Sohyang has stated in an interview that her name means "enjoy the light." Her grandmother named her.
Please analyze her performance of “Bridge Over Troubled Water”: ruclips.net/video/C6iHh4yBxCo/видео.html
Also, please react to her version of “The Power of Love”: ruclips.net/video/LrNkVRrK7_I/видео.html
Plus this beautiful duet with her friend Lee Hi where they do Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons’ “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You”: vimeo.com/439148918
And this version of her singing “Oh Holy Night”: vimeo.com/322716334
Here she performs “Lean On Me” before Michael Bolton, who called her a vocal “virtuoso” after her performance: ruclips.net/video/GvsgCllcNPE/видео.html
Wait until you see her duet of David Foster's “The Prayer” with Jeong Ui Geu: ruclips.net/video/rte-q3kunp8/видео.html
Her performance of "Fate" in Korean requires no translation: vimeo.com/198161448
And finally “Will You Be There”: ruclips.net/video/nBdSpexUxik/видео.html
Here’s an English language interview with her that I’m sure you will enjoy: ruclips.net/video/N2u_pmoWxj8/видео.html Her English is perfect when she sings and almost perfect when she is doing interviews.
OK, I’ll stop gushing now.
Well, one more gush. In an interview with a Turkish music producer Sohyang's assistants revealed (a bit to her chagrin, as she is a self-effacing person) that she can hit Eb7 and D7 in practise. However, she never goes above the 6th octave in performances. Since she starts at D3 that is more than a 4 octave range ... so how about them apples???! Here it is: ruclips.net/video/VnPAkryrygQ/видео.html I know, bananas isn’t it?
Oh, I just remembered, she is also a published fantasy novelist and has a theological treatise on the Book of Revelation in print. In addition, she is a very good stage actress, which she proved by playing Julie Andrews’ part in the South Korean stage production of “The Sound of Music.” Moreover, she sang the “Moana” part in the Korean version of the Disney film, does the musical vocals for many South Korean television dramas, and is a talented artist and cartoonist. She taught herself English by watching Disney's "The Little Mermaid" 'about one hundred times' when she was just a kid, speaks English with a _perfect_ North American accent and has an outgoing and bubbly personality.
She can also play the piano and guitar. Is there anything this genius level woman can’t do? Ironically, Sohyang stated in another interview that both she and her in-law family were surprised to discover that she could sing so excellently!
Though she is maybe 5' 4" and only about 100 pounds, Sohyang simply transcends the thresholds of music and takes you there with her. She becomes the song when she sings it, and then re-emerges when she is done. An experience like no other. I don’t know what else to say. I’ve spent _entire days_ listening to her, and shed more than a few tears of joy along the way.
I really must also compliment the choir, orchestra and audio/video production people Sohyang works with. They are all top notch from what I can see and hear, and that is important to note as these are _essential_ elements of any great musical production. The Korean people are easily as talented as anyone else.
As you can see, I am a shameless fan. 😉
PS Sohyang can still sing this rendition of "I Have Nothing" note for note perfectly today! She has done so numerous times this year of 2024 at the age of 46!
I think she is human just incredibly talented.👍
@@theeddianproject Yes, that is just a bit of hyperbole we like to engage in. 😏😇
Thanks for reacting to Queen Sohyang!
Thanks for watching and your welcome and valued comment. 👍
i never thought anyone could touch Whitney, but Sohyang is literally next level. Not just her technical abilities but her feel is uncanny. Please react to her Begin Again performance of the jazz classic Misty and also her singing Mona Lisa (King of Masked Singer performance) -- it's a K-pop rocking song and her versatility is astounding!
She's a total knock out, 👍
그녀는 세계 최고의 수준입니다,
그녀의 몸은 악기입니다,,
그리고 무대를 찢어 놓을것입니다,
소향을 보실려면 손수건도 챙기세요~~
So true!
먼 세계에요 지구에선 담을수 없어요 우주세계. 최고죠
Sohyang's singing is shockingly beautiful. If a person has never heard her sing before it is truly a stop and listen moment, and she easily outperforms Whitney Houston. As Sohyang says, "You must be born with a good voice, but then work very hard to improve it." She almost eats, sleeps and breathes music.
Here is what David Foster, who wrote the song and produced it for Whitney, had to say about Sohyang in an interview with South Korean media site _Naver_ on December 10, 2018, only a week after doing eight concerts with her at Tokyo's Blue Note Club.
“I wanted to meet her very much, and I am delighted to have collaborated in putting together a concert. Here is how I got to know about Sohyang. Oprah Winfrey introduced me to 'a stunningly amazing singer whose video is a must watch.' I fell in love at once with Sohyang's first video I watched on RUclips, 'I Have Nothing.' It was _thrilling,_ and I searched to listen to most of her other songs as well. I have wanted to meet her for a long time. She is one of the top divas I've come across."
David Foster didn't hold back praise. "Her voice is very beautiful and overwhelming, and I found her every performance to be emotionally moving and amazing. Moving forward, I want to collaborate again!"
It was actually Whitney Houston's former manager, almost certainly her sister in law Pat Houston, who found this performance on RUclips and showed it to Oprah Winfrey. 🤷♂👌💘
Sohyang was named by her grandmother, whom she believes God inspired with the name even though neither her parents nor grandmother were Christians. Her name means "enjoy the light" as people have correctly informed me. Sohyang's favourite movie star is Brad Pitt. Like "duh," eh? What woman doesn't love Brad Pitt? Ha, ha! 😎 Sohyang is a 100% self-taught singer except for five sessions with Seth Riggs, which she didn't talk about in the interview I learned this from, so I think she had her Seth Riggs lessons after 2009 when this interview was recorded. She said she spent time with one of the producers of Boyz II Men while on vacation in California and learned either vocal technique or audio recording technique or both because he had a home recording studio. When she watches movies she doesn't take her hubby along because she wants to concentrate on the film without anyone interrupting or talking to her. Sorry hubby, but you can be so distracting and annoying at the movies! 😝 Sohyang likes action movies! She carries her Bible with her most places. It is an English New International Version and she tries to read five chapters a day, because it helps her stay fresh on her English.
Oh yes, Sohyang wanted to be involved in musicals on stage but was offered the role of Carmen, which she turned down because Carmen was a prostitute. It sounded like she was offered prostitute roles repeatedly, so she more or less gave up on anything operatic. Though, of course, she did appear in "The Sound of Music." She is just one of those naturally wholesome women, and I think that is one of the reasons we like her. 😇❤
Sohyang is also analytic to the nth degree! She will listen to a song she likes over and over until she is satisfied she knows it inside out. The bass line, the drums, the vocals. She keeps going until she has almost worn out the recording. Well, she didn't say that last part but it is pretty obvious that she knows her music and when she decides to cover a song, she is going to cover it like it has never been covered before! And don't we all know it!?!! 🎸👍💘🎸
Thank you Todd for watching and for the info 😊.
Welcome back to The slaying Queen So in her fearless mode 🎉😮
Thanks from Perú 😊
Your very welcome, 👍
Welcome to the world of SoHyang~!!!
She is CCM/GOSPEL SINGER of South KOREA and cancer survivor. .
She is one of the greatest vocalist in the world.But She wasn't known as well as popular because She sing for GOD and Comfort people who has hardtime Not for fame or money. ..In her youth, she turned down all offers from mega agencies for her beliefs...and now she is 46years old. .She has so many legendary live performances .
She always sings with sincerity whenever and wherever. So it comforts those who listen to her song...That's why I love her...And her singing skills are the best, not to mention...
This performance is just tip of iceberg.. .
Thanks for your reaction of Queen Sohyang ♥
You are very welcome my friend.👍
Wait till you see her casually doing acapella for over 20 mins in her recent video title: Korea's Top Singer Sohyang Surprises Americans by Singing the U.S. National Anthem! Enjoy LOL
We must have a look at that. Thanks for watching and your welcome and valued comment. 👍
so hyang--bridge over troubled water/i have nothing/o holy night/arirang alone/everyone/upon this rock/us national anthem/hero/power of love/let it go/breathe/hug me/amazing grace/i will always love you/misty/ if i ain't got you
Thanks for very lengthy comment she stirs deep emotion I'm sure in everyone. 👍
Absolutely stunning rendition!! ❤ Thanks a lot!!!🎉
Thanks for watching and your kind comments 😊.
Queen sohyang♡
Thanks for watching and your welcome and valued comment. 👍
You both are charming and your analysis spot on. If you feel like another, she covers Whitney's, "I Will Always Love You" (outdoor version best) that will surely not disappoint.
Dolly Parton wrote and sang this song 2 decades before Whitney, and it became a big hit twice before being covered by Whitney.
@@oahuhawaii2141 Definitely true! No disrepect to Dolly Parton!
goosebumps ㄷㄷ;;
CriticOfMusic gave Céline Dion an A-.
Here are the ones who got a Star rating:
STAR - Incredible technical proficiency marked by performance consistency and intonation accuracy as well as great musicality. The golden standard.
Aretha Franklin
Beyonce
Mariah Carey
Michael Jackson
So Hyang
Whitney Houston
Thanks for watching and for the info 😊.
김소향 (Kim, So-hyang) is a South Korean singer who uses 소향 (Sohyang) as her stage name. She's up there with Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Céline Dion, according to David Foster, who worked with all of them, plus other big names in the music industry, such as Aretha Franklin, Barbra Streisand, Stevie Wonder, and Michael Jackson. In fact, many vocal coaches and critics call her the Queen, and Dimash the King.
Here are several links to excellent performances by Sohyang. Many are from competitions where she pulls out all the stops and goes into vocal beast mode. The last 5 are more restrained. You can alternate between the styles, just to experience the contrasts and see her range of abilities. All are live, except for a music video of "Never Enough" (since we can never get enough of Sohyang).
I Am a Singer Legend:
ruclips.net/video/T4UyIMkdy4M/видео.html "I Have Nothing" [Whitney Houston]
ruclips.net/video/CFtRUSPxcas/видео.html (camera only on Sohyang)
ruclips.net/video/n71eIWRmEtY/видео.html "꿈 (Dream)" [소향 (Sohyang)] {Korean}
Immortal Songs 2:
ruclips.net/video/C6iHh4yBxCo/видео.html "Bridge Over Troubled Water" [Simon & Garfunkel]
ruclips.net/video/zFyndK9VOCk/видео.html "홀로 아리랑 (Arirang Alone)" [traditional Korean folksong, lyrics adapted for reunification of North & South Koreas] {Korean}
ruclips.net/video/GvsgCllcNPE/видео.html "Lean On Me" [Bill Withers, Jr.; Michael Bolton guest]
ruclips.net/video/te_L9ofhUt8/видео.html "You Raise Me Up" [Secret Garden; Shane Filan (Westlife) guest]
ruclips.net/video/H5e7MPre7iY/видео.html "여러분 (Everyone)" [윤복희 (Yoon, Bok-hee)] {Korean, English}
I Am a Singer 2:
ruclips.net/video/YwgF3Gylu-0/видео.html "O Holy Night" [Adolphe Charles Adam]
King of Masked Singers:
ruclips.net/video/a_lOAgti7XQ/видео.html "모나리자 (Mona Lisa)" [조용필 (Cho, Yong-pil)] {Korean, English}
ruclips.net/video/0qBSPPi3ESM/видео.html "Home (집)" [박효신 (Park, Hyo-shin)] {Korean, English}
Begin Again Korea:
ruclips.net/video/lSzb6a0PkQU/видео.html "Flashlight" with 이수현 (Lee, Su-hyun) [Jessie J]
ruclips.net/video/_ivvpK3UMlw/видео.html "Misty" [Ella Fitzgerald]
ruclips.net/video/DO845EqU3eE/видео.html "I Will Always Love You" [Dolly Parton]
ruclips.net/video/k5WqGIPjqtc/видео.html "Never Enough" [Loren Allred]
Open Concert:
ruclips.net/video/vZyIdoRRKFo/видео.html "The Power of Love" [Jennifer Rush]
BTW, Whitney's former manager saw the DMC Festival video of Sohyang singing "I Have Nothing", and contacted Oprah Winfrey, who in turn, contacted David Foster. They were all amazed. Foster invited Sohyang to sing on his tour in Asia. She did 8 shows in 4 days in Tokyo. He and his ex-wife wrote that song. He co-arranged and produced it for Whitney for her album, and her performance in "The Bodyguard". Foster has won 16 Grammy Awards, including 3 for Producer of the Year, and has been nominated a total of 47 times.
Thanks for watching and your welcome and valued comment. 👍
She is the best female vocalist in this world. Michael Bolton had a concert in Korea 2023, and she sang "Oh Holy Night" there, which was so powerful. ruclips.net/video/XCRT1qrNdIE/видео.html
Another is "Upon this Rock," which she sang at the concert. ruclips.net/video/m9gSi3yk6g0/видео.html
You have to listen to her best performance "everyone"
ruclips.net/video/S9J1k_zmo24/видео.htmlsi=Lv13TpTgkbDYJFgB
[Sohyang List]
- You raise me up (Immortal songs 2)
- Bridge over troubled water (Immortal songs 2)
- I have nothing (I am a singer legend)
- Lean on me (Immortal songs 2)
- I'll always love you (begin again Korea)
- Oh holy night (I am a singer 2)
- Everyone (Immortal songs 2)
- Arirang alone (Immortal songs 2)
- Power of love (2014 live)
- Never enough (begin again Korea)
- Misty (begin again Korea)
- I'll be there (begin again Korea)
- I won't give up (Open Concert)
- Amazing Grace (Global Church Blessing 2020)
- Mona lisa (King Of Masked Singer)
- Fate (I am a singer 2)
- Wild flower (Immortal songs 2)
- Where are you (I am a singer 2)
- Dear love (King Of Masked Singer)
- Never Ending story (I am a singer 2)
- If I ain't got you (begin again Korea)
- The prayer (Jeong Ui Geun & So hyang)
- My favorite things (begin again Korea)
- As I live (I am a singer 2)
- Breathe (King Of Masked Singer)
Thanks for watching and your welcome and valued comment. 👍
If you want to focus on the technical aspects of singing, you can view the vocal transcriptions of the performances of "I Have Nothing", comparing Whitney Houston vs Sohyang. You can nerd out on the score, and even try them out on your keyboard to see the key shifts.
"I Have Nothing" Whitney vs Sohyang
ruclips.net/video/9eJ31Ii4GNc/видео.html (English captions)
ruclips.net/video/k-pJU6aLtdo/видео.html (Korean captions)
Thanks for watching and commenting 😊.
소향 ❤❤❤
Thank you for watching 😊.
One of a kind. Queen SoHyang
Thanks for watching 😊.
Take no offense to this guys, but you’re been around the block a few times. When you reacted to her the first time, I realized you have seen a lot in your times and you were not going to be easily impressed. That’s why this time, I was more than pleased you did give her the flowers and respect she deserves. I hope you continue down this incredible rabbit hole of my all time favorite singers (and humans). Thanks guys.
IMHO, the Adele song is no challenge for Sohyang. It takes a world class singer to beat Whitney's version of this song, and Sohyang does that in spades.
Thank You Guys ! This Humble Korean Gospel Singer is one of, if not the Best Vocalist I have ever heard! David Foster who wrote this for Whitney, has taken her to Japan to do a week long 13 shows in 7 days Celebration of the famous Blue Note Club he helped open ! Many others like Micheal Bolton ,Kirk Franklin and Josh Groban have went to Korea and asked to be in their concerts! She turned down all three of the big Record Companies( Sony being the last) and many Asian Recording Companies, because she want to sing what she wants and have a Family life and time for her Musical Gospel Ministry! She is quite the Lady and devoted Christian( the Kind that Walk the Walk, not just Talk the Talk ) please do more! Here is a modern Gospel song she wrote with one of the two Gentlemen she is Performing with- one on her left side !
SoHyang and Petra
Freedom
composed by SoHyang and Petra
ruclips.net/video/5-WPK-DlZ3Y/видео.html
Also this magnificent duet with a marvellous Baritone
Wild Flower
Immortal Songs 2
SoHyang and Min Woohyuk
ruclips.net/video/QsPC57wLwWQ/видео.html
This has English subtitles
To be perfectly fair is that she rejected the major labels because of her health limitations and the pressure the labels would put on her to tour.
We totally agree real talent. Thanks for watching and your welcome and valued comment. 👍
👍💛👍
Thank you for watching 😊.
She is top vocalist in this planet.
Thank you for watching and commenting😊
You just heard the BEST female vocalist on the planet !!!!!!!! Period !!!!!!
Thanks for watching and I personaly could'nt agree more with you 😊
You guys are great thank you
Thanks buddy for your comment 👍
Heavenly songbird healing wounded souls. SoHyang, the Queen. What we need is a global hit from her, but SoHyang refuses to sign deals with major agencies who can offer her those creative pieces. She then goes around performing in small stages, churches and events intended to heal wounded souls with that mesmerizing smile and warmth. Remarkable person.
Thank you for watching and commenting 😊.
Queen Sohyang~
Thanks for watching 😊.
심쿵을 3번이나 해 버렸어~😁😁😁
😊
bravo
Thanks for watching😊
If you haven’t already done so, please react to So Hyangs version of ‘ You raise me up.’
Thanks for watching that one is due up next week 😊.
당황하셨어요?❤
Thank you for watching 😊
the guy in the sunglasses needs an energy drink or two
Thank you for watching 😊
😍😍😍😍😍💕💕💕
Thanks for watching 😊.
Whitney have to pay to SOHWANG
Thank you for watching 😊
영감님들 자막좀 몬말하시는지 모르겠음
Please react to another South Korean performance group, FORESTELLA; you can start with Bohemian Rapsody.
Thanks for watching yep that one is going up this week 😊.
So Hyang ! Not "So Hyung"
Her full name is "김소향 (Kim, So-hyang)", but she leaves out her surname in her stage name, "소향 (Sohyang)". Here's the breakdown of the Hangul symbols in her full name:
김소향 (Kim, So-hyang)
김 = ㄱ ㅣ ㅁ (k i m)
소 = ㅅ ㅗ (s o)
향 = ㅎ ㅑ ㅇ (h ya ng)
Google Translate in Detect Language mode pronounces them decently. However, the proper pronunciation of her stage name can be heard before the start of her Immortal Songs 2 performance of "Bridge Over Troubled Water", when the host introduces her as "SOH hee-yahng". The "hee" part is very quick and subtle, almost like a puff of air after the "h" sound carried over from the stressed "SOH" syllable. Note that the "ahng" sound uses the first and last phonemes (syllable components) of "awe" and "song", respectively; it isn't "uhng" or "ohng" as too many non-Korean folks claim.
The problem is there are so many ways of pronouncing an "a" in English. That makes it impossible for any English speaker to pronounce it satisfactorily for a native Korean speaker. There may be a few who can do it but I wouldn't hold my breath waiting to find one, LOL!
Could be maybe Lara Fabian the fourth Diva that you are talking about?.
Thanks for watching and commenting you maybe correct 😊
시작전에 시큰둥하다가 쫌 놀란거 같은데? ㅎ
Thanks for watching and commenting 😊.
노인네들 벌떡 일어나서 기립 박수 안치냐??
Thank you for watching 😊