[series] Inkigayo Chronicles: A Rain Retrospective – You Already Knew and How To Avoid The Sun (01/11/2004)

— Cloud cover by: Michele, Staff Writer

2004. 2004. 2004. I think it is safe to say that 2004 was a very explosive year for our World Star. With his first and second album in the books and a successful, well-received performance as Sang Do in Sang Doo Let’s Go To School capping off 2003, 2004 rang in with him pretty much on the top. But not one to rest on his laurels, Rain was back to work.

Before the mayhem of Full House (which first aired in July 2004) and the release of his 3^rd album, It’s Raining ( October 2004), Rain showed up again on the Inkigayo stage. Not in a competitive capacity, but rather with a two-song performance: You Already Knew and How To Avoid The Sun.

This performance is from January 11, 2004 and although only 21 years of age here, he works the stage like a seasoned professional, commanding it – owning it. In You Already Knew he delivers the song with such tenderness – OH MY…really try not to fall in love with him..try – I DARE YOU! He also sings this song as a man with a well-worn heart. A man who has been through so much in such a short period of time. His honesty and sincerity in how he approaches his music and ultimately performs it is a gift he gives to us willingly. He really is one of a kind. I only wish he was able to sing the entire song here.

The blue-hued backdrop and softly falling snow creates a romantically sweet atmosphere for this incredibly sad song. You know, even when Rain sings of complete and abject heartbreak, it still sounds so gorgeous and wonderful, you forget that he is singing about something sad. He does this a lot. He really sings from his heart, even when his heart is breaking or broken. Aieeesh…this man.

Then there is How To Avoid The Sun. If you love this song like I love this song, you may find this particular performance ranking as among your favorites. It is one of mine. Clad in a sublime shade of saffron, his delivery here is so controlled and smooth. You really can see his growth as a singer and performer. Then, there is that little dance break before the rap section where he removes his jacket. Oh.my.goodness. ♥