Epik High, f(x) perform at Cannes music showcase

Korean hip-hop group Epik High and girl band f(x) performed as representatives of Korean pop music at a global music showcase in Cannes held this week, according to a press release by the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA).

Epik High and f(x) performed for about 90 minutes on "K-Pop Night" event -- held January 26 at Hotel Martinez in Cannes, France -- in front of music and media industry executives at MIDEM 2010, KOCCA explained in the statement released yesterday.

"I felt a connection with many of the attendees despite our different nationalities and age," Tablo of Epik High was quoted as saying. "It was an amazing, entertaining performance."

"I was surprised that so many people showed up," said f(x) member Sulli about the performance. "We are grateful for their enormous support and in a few years, we hope to hold our solo concert in many countries overseas."

The two groups drew a lot of interest from local journalists and record companies. Agency SM Entertainment explained that the girl band received numerous inquiries and offers from some 20 companies, including Warner Music Sweden, about making an European debut. Epik High was also approached by an agent, who manages U.S. hip-hop artist Pitbull, to write songs and by an Australian record distribution firm Timeless Music Company who offered to distribute the group's music both online and offline.

MIDEM (Marche International du Disque et de l'Edition Musicale) is an annual, global music trade fair which is hosted by French media group Reed Midem and attended by record companies and distributors from all over the world. This year, it was held from January 24 thru 27 at Palais des Festivals et des Congres in Cannes, France.

Epik High -- composed of Tablo, Mithra Jin and DJ Tukutz -- debuted in 2003 with the album "Map of the Human Soul" and gained popularity with the success of their consequent albums "High Society" and "Swan Songs". The group released their sixth album "[e]" in September 2009.

f(x) -- composed of Victoria, Amber, Luna, Sulli and Krystal -- debuted last September with the single "LA chA TA". Their latest single "Chu~♡" has made the Top 20 singles chart in Korea.



Reporter : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr