I think at one time or another we have all felt that if we had that one single person in our lives who was always there, and who always had our backs unconditionally without judgment, that we could do or be anything we wanted. And because of that support and belief, we could make it through even the most arduous and difficult times because in essence, that person believed in us more than we did ourselves. Have you ever felt that or am I the only whimsical weepy one? Ha..maybe it’s just me. But, this is how I feel when I listen to this week’s Playlist Roulette pull, Lee Hongki’s Raise Me Up from the Korean drama Switch OST.
This week’s offering may not be all K-pop pomp and excitement, but it is nevertheless a compelling reminder of the emotional depth and strength of Lee Hongki’s power vocal prowess. He needs no introduction as he has been singing his way into hearts and souls since June 2007 when he debut as lead singer of the Korean rock band, FT Island. He was all of about 17 years old. In that he does not seem to lend his beautiful voice out to many original soundtracks overall, when he does, they are so very memorable. Such is the case with Raise Me Up.
The song. Released in April 2018 on Part 4 of the Switch OST, Raise Me Up, is a haunting and emotional ballad that suits the drama storyline of a conman who probably has not had much mentorship, support or purpose in his life until under the guise of being a prosecutor, is paired with another prosecutor (an old college friend) to solve a drug case. I have not seen the drama, but since I work in the legal field, I tend to enjoy legal dramas overall, so I may put this on my list. If anything I will get to hear a fantastic OST song that is a lyrically poetic piece about having that certain someone in life who you can lean on and find comfort, solace and support in. You know, the one who always seems to be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how dark or painful life has been. It is also the kind of song that suits Hongki’s voice. He sings Raise Me Up with gentle, yet compelling emotion that touches the heart and soothes the soul.
SBS released a storyline MV to coincide with the release of the song and there was also a live ‘making of’ MV released with Hongki singing the song in the studio. Both are here for your listening pleasure.
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I actually jumped aboard the Hongki train well after his debut and actually did when he released his first solo mini album, FM302, back in 2015. His powerful voice is very unique. I look forward to what he has planned once he has completed his mandatory military service which, by the way, is schedule to wrap up next month (April 18).
~🌟~