JoDongJin

Jo Dong-jin 조 동 진 趙 東 振 One of the first generation of underground singers, Jo Dong-jin is widely respected probably as much as a songwriter as a poet. His music is mellow and gentle and I'm told the lyrics quite profound. However the nature of his music is such that I find I cannot concentrate on the lyrics for long. I find myself turning my thoughts to reflect on my own life whenever I hear his songs. He is often compared to Leonard Cohen although I find his music while encompassing a certain sadness does not contain the darkness of Cohen's music. Some casual western listeners have occasionally asked if they were hearing Leonard Cohen.
Jo Dong-jin came to public attention as a musician around 1970. He has produced 5 albums, the latest being realeased in 1997, and at least one volume of poetry. His concerts are increasingly rare.
I went to his concert in February 2000. It was a well organised professional event lasting over two hours without an intermission. There wasn't even the break in which guest singers appeared. I think the songs covered all of his career in conjuction with the release of a double "Best" album. During the concert, the music at times reminded of the Tom Rush / Walker Brothers hit "No Regrets" and at other times of Steve Windwood's 1980s solo work.

A Korean reference page (Korean text) Hana Music Stable (Korean text)