"Music is a universal language... A stage that transcends generations".. Apple TV+ 'KPOPPED'

[Financial News] A spectacular scene unfolded as Patti LaBelle, the legendary R&B and soul artist of 65 years, sang her hit song with the 4-year-old multinational girl group member Billie. This was through the global music competition series 'KPOPPED', released on Apple TV on August 29.
CJ ENM and Australia's Eureka Productions co-produced 'KPOPPED', an unprecedented project where K-pop artists and pop legends form teams on one stage to reinterpret hit songs. Even before its release, it garnered attention with its star-studded lineup including Psy, Megan Thee Stallion, Patti LaBelle, Boyz II Men, Boy George, and ITZY.
'KPOPPED' Director Lee Yeon-kyu explained in a video interview that day, "It started from a conversation between CJ Group Vice Chairman Miky Lee and pop star Lionel Richie in 2021," adding, "The idea was to convey the charm of K-pop and create a stage where people around the world unite through the universal power of music."
Can K-pop stars and foreign pop stars meet for the first time and complete a stage within 48 hours?
He said, "It was a big challenge and task," adding, "Initially, it was awkward and took some time to get in sync, but the way each artist tackled this challenge differently became a viewing point and the unique color of 'KPOPPED' compared to existing music competitions."
The casting of Psy and Megan Thee Stallion, among others, went surprisingly smoothly.
He said, "Foreign pop artists found it very interesting to perform on stage with K-pop singers. For those who mostly performed solo or in small groups, the process of coordinating and harmonizing with multiple artists seemed like a unique experience."
In particular, the stage with 80-year-old Patti LaBelle and 20-year-old Billie left a deep impression on the production team.
Director Lee said, "Initially, the age and career gap was so large that we were cautious," adding, "However, Ms. LaBelle treated the Billie members like her granddaughters. Especially when everyone was exhausted midway through production, the recording took place, and seeing her sing with all her heart brought tears to my eyes."
He recalled, "While waiting for rehearsal before Christmas, Boyz II Men suddenly sang 'Silent Night, Holy Night' a cappella and connected with the audience," adding, "Their active attitude to communicate with the audience was moving."
Additionally, Boy George, the lead vocalist and singer-songwriter of Culture Club, suggested the idea of singing Korean lyrics directly on stage, incorporating Korean lyrics into the performance.
"When I explained the 'ending fairy' culture of K-pop, the pop stars didn't understand at first. But when they tried it, they actively participated, asking 'Which camera is mine?' The way they checked the ending fairy cut until the end and came down was impressive."
The stage with ITZY and Spice Girls members, the explosive chemistry between Latin pop star J Balvin and ATEEZ, and the stage with Kesha and JO1 were also said to have left a strong impression. Regarding the production of Season 2, he laughed, saying, "It depends on how much love Season 1 receives."
"It was a moment of great pride and reaffirmation of the power of music, overcoming cultural and linguistic communication and differences."

jashin@fnnews.com Reporter Shin Jin-a