Today’s features are hip hop legends that happen to be one of my favourite bands of all time. They have rocked the stage since 2003 with soulful music that has reached so, so many. Today we are talking about none other than Epik High.
Mithra, Dj Tukutz and Tablo debuted as Epik High in 2003 under Woollim Entertainment with the album ‘Map of the Human Soul’. After that they just created an entire discography full of incredible songs that many of us can relate to.
Something that really got me into their music was the storytelling in their lyrics. They talk about deep issues that not many artists are able to. They narrate stories that reach audiences and relieve the pain of listeners. On top of that, this trio is not afraid to try out new music styles or include new rhythms. They are not afraid of leaving their comfort zone, and I find that extremely remarkable.
This time instead of going into detail of every EP or album, I want to talk about Epik High’s journey and share my favourite songs by this group.
The Beginnings
Epik High started off performing in the underground Korean Hip Hop scene that back then wasn’t as popular and known as it is these days. After debuting under Woollim Entertainment and releasing ‘Map of the Human Soul’ and ‘High Society’, they didn’t have enough commercial success which led them to plan ‘Swan Songs’ as their final album.
Luckily for us, ‘Swan Songs’ swept the charts and made Epik High one of the most successful hip-hop groups in Korea and they were able to continue on releasing their amazing music.
With their next release ‘Remapping the Human Soul’ they followed on their commercial success. This album was censored by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Korea as they touched sensitive topics that were not deemed appropriate by the regulatory entity.
In 2009, Epik High finished their contract with Woollim Entertainment and founded the independent label Map The Soul along with MYK, Planet Shiver and Dok2, under this label they released the special project ‘Map the Soul’ and their sixth album ‘[e]’.
Hiatus / YG Entertainment
DJ Tukutz and Mithra enlisted in the military service between 2009-2012. During this period Tablo signed a four year contract with YG Entertainment and was followed by the former two after they finished their service.
In 2012 they released their first album under YG. ‘99’ was a commercial success in Korea and also on the international charts. Two years after Epik High released the album ‘Shoebox’ which was followed in 2016 by them becoming the second Korean act performing at the American music festival Coachella.
In 2017 their ninth album ‘We’ve Done Something Wonderful’ was released and had massive success internationally. This release had incredible features including well known artists such as IU, Simon Dominic, Lee Hi, Crush, and many others.
Sleepless In _______
In late 2018, Epik High decided to part ways with YG Entertainment. And in early 2019 they signed under William Morris Endeavor.
‘Sleepless in _____’ is Epik High’s most recent release. This EP topped the charts (as most of their music) and in the same year they went off on a world tour that included many cities in North America, Europe and Asia. Below is the documentary they filmed while creating this wholesome EP.
Transcendent Music
If I were to describe Epik High’s discography, I would say that it is a musical journey that will take you through several emotional states, and that is the beauty of it. You can find something that fits emotions or situations any person could be in.
Throughout all these years they have gifted us with incredible music that knocks down geographical and language barriers. So here is a small list of my favourite songs by them.
- Map the Soul feat. Kero One & MYK
“L-O-V-E-U, I was made to be with you”, nothing else needs to be said. Also the music video is a piece of art.
- UP ft. Park Bom
A classic that cannot be ignored, this song is powerful and it is the push that you need when feeling the blues.
“If anyone stands on top of your head,
Flip over the world
If anyone breaks your legs,
Spread your wings and get up”
Lyrics by: Wattpad
- Encore
I feel like this song describes Epik High’s ‘no genre’ music style. I personally believe that music is an art that shouldn’t be limited or stereotyped. And every single beat, mix and layer of this song is proof of it.
- The Benefits Of Heartbreak feat. Lee Suhyun (AKMU)
I always felt that this song was so underrated, everything about it is incredible. Lyrically it is absolutely breathtaking, and the addition of Lee Suhyun’s vocals made it even more emotional.
“(…)A hectic day. Unstable just like me
I try to use them up but even then one is left untouched
Not sure if it’s my time or my feelings?
Tomorrow will be a rerun of today
Honestly, I’m afraid that my heart remains empty, despite my attempts to fill it up (…)”
Lyrics by: Genius
- Here Come The Regrets
Lee Hi’s is an outstanding vocalist and this song (and her entire discography) proves it. ‘Here Come The Regrets’ is a powerful song that will keep you absorbed, playing it on repeat until you can’t take it anymore. Nonetheless, you will play it again.
- Sleepless
I have no words to describe how intense and striking this song is. Whenever I listened to it for the first time the only thought I had was ‘This is indeed Epik High’. Only they can move people with electronic vocals, acoustics and a message that for sure reached many.
Below you can see their Spotify profile, make sure to listen to their extensive discography and be ready to discover soulful music that will for sure stay in your playlist for years.
