[FYI][Cloud USA] An Atlanta Super Cell Cloudburst is on the horizon.

•January 31, 2014 • 44 Comments

cloudusamodern_skyDearest Clouds…

We hope you’ve all had a good week. TGIF! (Thank God It’s Friday!)

Y’all know how my and Terri’s week has been—hint: Ice Jam 2014. It took until late yesterday to free my car from the ice in my driveway (unfortunately my tree-lined street on a hill was still a sheet)! And the day the storm hit (Tuesday noon), Terri spent more than 9 hours in that mess, trying to get home from work in her car. Horrors.

Thank goodness we’re thawing out and that’s behind us so that we can focus on something much sunnier, like the next Cloudburst get-together. 🙂

Terri and I have checked our schedules, and after batting the subject about on Facebook with lovely peeps in our Cloud USA community, we’ve narrowed down a date to gather, have a meal and loads of fun, and dish about Rain. The first Cloudburst of this year will be the March 15 weekend (specifically Saturday evening, March 15, 2014 at 7 PM) right here in HOTlanta, the ATL. We’re on the hunt for a good venue as we speak. That information and more particulars will be posted as soon as we can get that together. We wanted to immediately get the date up so that folks would have time to plan.

Wow… I’m only now noticing something hilarious about that date. It happens to be the very same weekend we had last year’s first Cloudburst! Whodathunk? LOL!

Hope to see you all there.

Do stay tuned for more info.

— Stephe ^@@^

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Cloudy Day: Fan art, inspired by 비진아 and Rain Effect.

•January 31, 2014 • 1 Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

“비진아/BiJinAh Collab” (Rain and Tae JinAh) penciled by artist Nao. Posted by raimy @The Cloud.

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“30 Sexy Teaser” Rain Effect by melekmaya @deviantART.

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[images] Rain at LAX. (1/26)

•January 29, 2014 • 4 Comments

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Rain makes another fan happy at Los Angeles International Airport. 🙂

(Images credit: Sagita @Weibo)

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[fan cams] Rain at Incheon Int’l Airport, on his way west. (1/26)

•January 29, 2014 • 2 Comments

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

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This fan cam is set to Rain’s catchy, adorable, and smile-inducing “So I’m Loving You” campaign song for past sponsor Lotte Duty Free, in 2009.

» Rain Ad campaign of the day: Lotte Duty Free’s “So I’m Loving You”, 2009-2010.

» You can see images, clips, and an English translation of what Rain said at Incheon Airport in our previous post HERE.

(Fan cam credit: vividly12blue)

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(Fan cam credit: 0912nenerain)

[series] Inkigayo Chronicles: A Rain Retrospective – Do You Like That I’m Famous Now (12/28/2003)

•January 29, 2014 • Leave a Comment

Cloud cover by: Michele, Staff Writer

imageOMG!! How on earth did I let this one slip by me before jumping into 2004??

Perhaps I was too anxious to get to It’s Raining (can you blame me) or maybe it is simply that these gems are hidden behind the other songs that are released first and foremost – you know, the ones that blow up the stage following an album release. LA Song, anyone?

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This one, however, tends to blow up my screen whenever I watch it regardless of the specific performance. So, I would be incredibly remiss if I did not share this in the series because it does rank as among my fave Rain songs on his second album and I particularly like this performance – a lot. He sings it with such attitude and swag and here, throws in that signature cuteness and irresistible smile that is simply a fangirl’s undoing. And, it will sneak up on you if you don’t pay attention but following that sexy dance break, there are some pretty aggressive hip thrusts around the 1:57 mark.

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Just gotta love when he flashes some skin. I actually appreciate the way clothes fall on him – even this loose-fitting shirt and low-riding pants seem to have a flow of their very own yet move with ease along with him – as if they, too, appreciate draping his body. If I have said it once, I have said it a few times, he doesn’t wear clothes, they wear him!

Seriously, how cool is this song? On one hand he seems so annoyed – and then for a moment pulls back, smiles and mugs for camera. Then, it is back to the badassery. Rain does badassery just about as good as he does cute.

Badass.

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Cute.

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Badass.

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Cute.

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More cute.

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Infinitely more cute.

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Oh, and then there is the unintentional sexy.

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No matter which version or stage, he manages to keep it all fresh, exciting and always entertaining.

Michele @cloudusa.wordpress.com/CloudUSA.org

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[Video credit: manloverain8]

[clips] Trot meets Pop: Is there a plot afoot to replace BiJinAh (비진아) with BiUnDo (비운도)? ;)

•January 29, 2014 • 2 Comments

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

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(Capture source: Rainstorm)

Oh noes! Is the BiJinAh Collab in danger from another singer who’s plotting to take Mr. Tae JinAh’s place by Rain’s side? Sure looks that way to me! (Rain, we’ve said it before, you’re one smart cookie. You have gotten some great mileage out of BiJinAh, indeed. You’ve got the traditional music genre fighting over you. Good job! kekeke ^_~)

JinAh-ssi, watch out. Your Trot X colleague Seol UnDo is planning something. He’s coming for Rain and “LA Song” with LA-CHA-CHA! 😀

(Of course, this is all just in fun. UnDo-ssi is hilarious.^^)

Stephe @cloudusa.wordpress.com / Cloudusa.org

A new mash-up video has hit the scene—BiUnDo. Uh-oh! I hate to say it, but it sounds pretty good. 🙂 (Source credit: Mnet)

Mr. Seol UnDo plotting and pulling shenanigans behind the scenes. This dude is serious, haha! (Source credit: Mnet)

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[clips] Rain video salad.

•January 29, 2014 • Leave a Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

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(Capture credit: sizuku219)

Rain and Mr. Tae JinAh interviewed by YStar News. (Source credit: ystarnews @YT.)

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Rain talks about his BiJinAh collab, and OBS News reports on his leaving Incheon Airport on his way to the U.S. (Source credit: OBS / courtesy of mazingga69)

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YStar News talks about the score of Rain’s 2014 comeback to the music industry, his movie career, his reality TV show, and his BiJinAh collaboration. (I can only hope they’re talking sense here and being gracious. I’ve never trusted YStar, for good reason. ^@@^) (Source credit: ystarnews)

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Mr. Tae JinAh is interviewed by SBS about how the BiJinAh Mashup/Collab came to be. (Source credit: SBSculture @YT.)

The fan made mashup that started it all… LA Song and JinAh-ssi‘s song do go together pretty nicely!^^ (Credit: Jeong HS)

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YStar News on Rain’s and Tae JinAh’s harmony in music. (Source credit: ystarnews)

“Singer returned… Rain’s comeback performance (score)?” — ^@@^

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Instagrams abound: Rain and 50 Cent looking like a million bucks.

•January 28, 2014 • 4 Comments

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Rain posted a picture of himself and co-star 50 Cent on the set of The Prince today.

In the immortal words of the lovely Gia Mantegna: “Chocolate… Raiiiinnnnn… lives.” Oh yes, it does. 😀

(Image credit: 30rain @Instagram)

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[series] Inkigayo Chronicles: A Rain Retrospective – It’s Raining (10/31/2004)

•January 28, 2014 • 2 Comments

Cloud cover by: Michele, Staff Writer

Screen Shot 2014-01-27 at 9.21.52 PMIt’s about to get real up in here!

I am just going to go ahead and say it. It is my belief that in 2004 Rain met his sexy persona head on, embraced it and let it come out to play full force. Not that How To Avoid The Sun was not sexy…it was (and still is today). But I am not sure Clouds were prepared to meet It’s Raining when the torrential downpour arrived and flooded the place in late 2004.

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By the end of October 2004, the romcom Full House was nearing its finale and was a HUGE hit. Rain was on fire. His star was blazing throughout Korea and all of Southeast Asia. When he brought It’s Raining to the Inkigayo stage on October 31, 2004, he just slapped us all around with it and left us stunned.  With the in-your-face provocative choreography and his declaration that the music not only controlled his body….it ultimately invaded ours and took us for the thrill ride of our lives because that is, as he so aptly states in the song, what “the people are waiting for.”

Amen little brother…amen!

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And although Rain has been cute since the dawn of time, he just went off the chart handsome in 2004 (in my opinion). I think in 2004 there was a perfect storm of cute, sexy, and confidence that collided and fell so wonderfully into place with his already down-to-earth, gracious and charming demeanor. Cap that off with his incredible talent and I have to ask: could any one match that in 2004? Can anyone even match that now??!

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I honestly think he is too good to be true sometimes!! Let’s just watch him let loose…seriously, you can see how the music just consumes him and takes over. Every pulse, every beat, every chord, every note are just attached to every one of his nerve endings. I just love this song and the way he performs it.

It’s Raining always heats things up for me – always. It is one of my favorites.

Michele @cloudusa.wordpress.com/CloudUSA.org

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[Video credit: manloverain8]

[images] Monday Morning Rain Effect mini-Spam.

•January 27, 2014 • Leave a Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Because I really, really wanted some. 🙂

(Images credit: michi1108)

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[clips][images][Eng trans] Rain departing from Incheon International Airport. (1/26)

•January 27, 2014 • 3 Comments

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

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(Clip source credit: Union Press / upnewsTV @YT.)

(English translation by: 화니)

0:22~0:33
[Rain] : I think that my activities with my 6th album were able to be brought to a successful conclusion, so I thank you for your interest in my album. The response to my album has been far better than expected, thanks to your support and love for me.

0:34~41
[Rain] : While staying in the US, I’ll be meeting with filmmakers to determine what I choose for my next film. I will reward you with my good result. Thank you.

(Clip source credit: TV Daily, Nate News / courtesy of ratoka)

(Clip source credit: OBS News / courtesy of ratoka)

(Images credit: various media, as tagged)

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Yeah… we remember that coat, don’t we, Clouds? 🙂 ^@@^

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[clips][trot meets pop] BiJinAh Special Stage on Inkigayo: Every girl’s crazy ’bout a sharp-dressed man. (1/26)

•January 27, 2014 • 5 Comments

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

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And they are—sharp-dressed. Both of them! When Rain let Tae JinAh take over the “LA Song” dance break and JinAh씨 threw his version of the moonwalk in there, I just fell out. LOL! If this ain’t the best one yet, I know something. 😀

By the way, the young dude who makes a quick appearance in the long white fur is Baro of B1A4. ^@@^

(Source credit: SBS / courtesy of Net Bestiz.)

BiJinAh Interview.

BiJinAh LA Song.

*Edited to Add 1/28: Because someone is having trouble viewing the LA Song video above ↑ in their country, I’m going to add three additional ones. Noraini, I hope this helps.^^ 🙂 ^@@^

(Courtesy of KpopHDChannel @YT.)

(Courtesy of mazingga69)

(Courtesy of AllKpop Plus)

(Wall captures credit: RainBiLove2)

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Tweets abound: Bi and BtoB backstage. Oh, boy!

•January 27, 2014 • 1 Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

(Image credit: Cube Entertainment / @cubeunited)

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[Cloud USA video] The Closest Thing to Crazy…

•January 26, 2014 • Leave a Comment

“This is the closest thing to crazy I have ever been… Feeling twenty-two, acting seventeen… This is the nearest thing to crazy I have ever known… I was never crazy on my own.”

That says it all, doesn’t it? What Cloud can’t relate to that. Wonderful job, Naoko! ♥ ^@@^ (Credit and edit: Naoko [harudoful] @CloudUSA / CloudUSAChannel @YT. Music: Katie Melua, “The Closest Thing To Crazy”)

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

•January 26, 2014 • Leave a Comment

— Cloud cover by: Michele, Staff Writer

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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 3rd 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.

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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.

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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.

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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. ♥

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The combined performance of these two songs on the Inkigayo stage in January 2004 was a nice post-holiday gift to fans.

Wasn’t that just absolutely sublime? Yeah….I thought so, too.

Michele @cloudusa.wordpress.com/CloudUSA.org

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[Video credit: manloverain8]

[Eng trans/CCs][full] Rain Effect, Episode 6 Final: “Please be good to your parents while they are with you.” (1/23)

•January 26, 2014 • 7 Comments

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

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This was the final episode to end all episodes. I could not have asked for more.

Talk about an emotional rollercoaster—one minute, KyuSang and YongDeok were cracking me up, and Rain singing his first FanClub song and the crew doing the motions had me rolling, and the next, Rain had me busting a gut about getting his dogs and his friend eased off the show for becoming more popular than him, and the next, Rain had me crying and thinking about my mama, and the next, Rain had me boo-hooing when he finally came to his breaking point and tried to regain his composure after going through so much…

If there is a Rain Effect Season 2 (if we’re lucky), I don’t see how he can top that. But knowing Rain, top it he will. 🙂

The Natural Concert was an amazing idea, one that I hope he continues to practice when he finally gets the chance to come around the world and see all of his global clouds in their countries. I can’t think of a better way for Clouds and Rain to spend time together than that.

Please enjoy.

Stephe @cloudusa.wordpress.com / CloudUSA.org

(Source credit: Mnet / courtesy of Ygami Skett. English translation by 화니. Closed captions from that translation by Ygami Skett. Don’t forget to turn on your CCs!)

(Source credit: Mnet / courtesy of wetheridge.)

For those of you who can watch it on Mnet’s YouTube Channel in your countries, here is that video.

For those of you who can watch it on Mnet Korea, that VOD link is here:

» Rain Effect Episode 6. http://mnet.interest.me/tv/vod/159644

(Source credit: Mnet / courtesy of Maclk Đại Bàng)

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1a6xfw_140123-rain-effect-ep-06_shortfilms

(Captures credit: RainBiLove2)

English translation to Mnet Rain Effect_Episode 6 [Final episode]

Video up by ratoka : https://vimeo.com/84873993

English translation by 화니.

1:27

The final story about Rain begins on January 23, 2014 [the 6th episode]

1:35

Rain – the final story.

Natural Concert.

1:50~2:08

[Producer] : How’s the last day on the show?

[Rain] : It’s kind of a bittersweet thing. Originally I expected people would be able to like the way I show my true colours. Now it’s bitter – sweet..

2:12~34

[Producer] : Please tell me how “Natural Concert” struck you?

[Rain] : First, I am particularly grateful to the show production crew including the director who have given me some ideas about how I can give a concert. It was, quite literally, one of the most impressive concerts.

3:07

This is the first time for Rain to hold a live mini concert called Natural Concert for more than 100 fans.

3:26

“30Sexy” song.

6:25

[Rain]: Hello, I am singer Rain who has a ten-year singing experience. [laughs]

6:31~48

[Rain] : I feel good. Natural Concert will be a honest-to-goodness concert based on song rather than performance for you.

[Fans] : Good!

6:52~7:07

[Rain] : And, today is my last day of Rain Effect and I’m excited. [laughs] Yes, but what a bittersweet time. [laughs]

7:07~14

[Rain] : I feel the stress falling away already from thinking about – there is no more hidden cameras in my house, and I can swear when I’m angry. [laughs]

Continue reading ‘[Eng trans/CCs][full] Rain Effect, Episode 6 Final: “Please be good to your parents while they are with you.” (1/23)’

[Update][info][구름 9기/9th Cloud] From Stephe’s desk: What the heck to do about this Paypal glitch? (if that’s what it is)

•January 25, 2014 • 26 Comments

*Edited to Add 1/27: We were just told that there will not be an extension of the deadline, which is not necessarily bad because people have had success getting their payments through Paypal for the past few days, thank goodness.

FYI: While The Cloud is busy leveling up those who have paid and is gathering the names of Rain’s official 9th Cloud right now, the membership drive is not yet “officially” closed, so it is still possible to join up but ONLY if you move FAST. If you really want to be 9th Cloud, get your payment and email application in immediately (instructions are HERE), as the final rosters will be posted ASAP. ^@@^

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Dear Clouds and Rain fans,

For some weird reason, in the past two weeks, when some fans have tried to pay for their 9th Cloud membership through Paypal, as requested, they have been singled out due to some new stipulation that we’re not aware of and not been allowed to send their $32. USD to the overseas Cloud master.

That makes absolutely no sense, seeing as the majority of us had no problem sending our money to Heidi/huhuhuhu’s email account. (I was too busy most of this month and finally sent my payment last week, and it went through…) I don’t think the Paypal customer service folks have any control over what the heck their system is doing. For all we know, it could be some random glitch. And what timing, right as the 9th membership payment deadline is upon us! Gah.

Seeing as none of us (Cloud USA and Heidi included) can control what the heck Paypal does, the best course of action is to find some way around this doggone problem.

As I understand it, CloudUSAer Patsiiii got her $32. membership fee through by sending it to Heidi in 3 separate payments. She also let Heidi know about it, and everything was good.

I strongly suggest that those of you having trouble try this method. Divide your $32. up into three parts and send it that way, with the information Heidi needs, and remember to send them as personal payments (not as a goods purchase) and agree to pay all charges, to heidi.shanghai@hotmail.com.

That method worked for Patsiiii, and so it should work for you. *fingers crossed*

Please do let us know if you still have trouble. I have contacted the Cloud executive in an attempt to get the membership deadline extended because of this problem (not sure what will happen with that, but I’m hopeful).

If you still have trouble after trying Patsiiii’s method, there may still be something else we can do, and we are brainstorming on another option, so don’t lose hope.

Thanks, all. Good luck!

Thanks so much for your help, Patsiiii. 🙂

— Stephe ^@@^

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[clip] Trot meets Pop: The 비진아 (BiJinAh) Mashup continues, on MBC Music Core. (1/25)

•January 25, 2014 • 1 Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

I swear, JinAh-ssi cracks me up with that serious poker face while he’s standing there rocking steady with Rain, LOL! Truly, a good time was had by all, including Rain himself. 🙂

(Source credit: MBCkpop @YT.)

[clip][English][rainthetreasure] Arirang Issue’s Korea Today: Singer Rain makes a grand comeback.

•January 25, 2014 • 1 Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Firstly, this is a GREAT segment on Rain and how he has evolved and won hearts all over the world at the beginning of this, his 2nd decade.

Secondly, imagine our surprise when Arirang included our Jess’s (a.k.a. Rainthetreasure) Rain fan art in their report! Wow! Way to rep for Cloud USA, little sis!^^ ♥

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And thirdly, our Cyndi is still showing up on Korean TV! Here is a glimpse of her in Arirang’s report, and we’re doggone happy for her. Way to go, Cyndi! 🙂 ♥

Stephe @cloudusa.wordpress.com / CloudUSA.org

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(Source credit: Arirang Issue @YT.)

Arirang Issue’s YouTube comments:

“Rain has captured the hearts of many and he is back for the first time in three years and nine months. With his sixth album he is busy sweeping up the charts on K-pop shows.”

[video/audio clips][links][English] Rain video salad.

•January 25, 2014 • 1 Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

» LINK: MCB Entertainment News reports on Rain and Tae JinAh’s collab.

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[English] Rain’s “LA Song” is showcased on Pops in Seoul’s Hot 20 Playlist on 1/23.

(Source credit: ARIRANG KPOP @YT.)

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Super Junior’s Heechul and a JTBC War of Words entertainment news panel chat about Rain’s comeback, his stint on 1 Night 2 Days, and his fun collaboration with Trot music legend Tae JinAh.

(Source credit: JTBC News / JTBCentertainment @YT.)

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Audio clips of Rain’s Rain Effect Natural Concert, which happened back on 1/15. Have a listen. (Credit: 하악ㅎㅇ@ DC)

» Clip #1 on Daum TVpot.

» Clip #2 on Daum TVpot.

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YStarNews reports on the picture Rain tweeted of himself and Tae JinAh, on 1/24.

(Source credit: ystarnews @YT.)

[images][clip] Trot meets Pop: 비진아 (BiJinAh) on KBS Music Bank. (1/24)

•January 25, 2014 • 1 Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

I enjoyed this performance waaaay too much.^^ Mr. Rain and Mr. Tae JinAh, you are both made of Awesome. 😀

(Clip courtesy of Net Bestiz.)

Getting ready backstage… JiHoon-ssi and JinAh-ssi have to get all LASong’d up.

(Images credit: Dispatch, as tagged)

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Tae JinAh and Rain… honk!! (ppangppang!! 빵빵!!) LOL ^@@^

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Tweets abound: Rain’s Fabulous Ones show us more of what they’ve got.

•January 25, 2014 • 1 Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Dancer Yoon MiYeon, one of Rain’s Fabulous Lovelies, tweeted these very cool shots of herself, Rain,  SungTak, and SooBong backstage chillin’, on 1/25.

(Image credit: @yoonmiyeon90)

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BIG_K (Gori) reached back in the archives and instagramed this shot of himself, DDuks, and SooBong in Hong Kong for the 2013 MAMA.

(Image credit: gori7911 @Instagram)

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[series] Inkigayo Chronicles: A Rain Retrospective – How To Avoid The Sun #3 (11/30/2003)

•January 25, 2014 • Leave a Comment

Cloud cover by: Michele, Staff Writer

Screen Shot 2014-01-22 at 9.04.05 PMThe third installment of How To Avoid The Sun on Inkigayo’s November 30, 2003 broadcast had all the intensity of the first two. And, it saw Rain beating up on all the competition.

Yes, at this time, the show was about 7 performers throwing their songs into the ring, watching them battle it out, and seeing which one would emerge victorious. For Rain, it was a knockout!

Clearly, yes, there were elements of performance #1 and performance #2 weaved into this third and final performance of the song on Inkigayo. I was hard-pressed to find a copy of this one. It was buried deep within a playlist. It is not the clearest copy, but it is still viewable. In fact, I think it is safe to say that anything Rain-related is viewable, acceptable, and welcomed no matter what the condition.  So long as it is Rain, it is all good!

In performance #3, there is a little interplay with the sunglasses (as always). And some seductive jacket-off-the-shoulders moments (I for one love to see those fine broad shoulders of his).

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Raw, emotion-filled vocals.

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The ever-present connect with crowd and camera.

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But… he left out the rap! Yes, he sure did. I don’t know if it was a network time constraint issue or just a decision he made – whatever the case, it’s just not there.

Still, it is nice to see him win, accept his award, and speak. Always so gracious and adorable! ♥

Michele @cloudusa.wordpress.com/CloudUSA.org

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[Video credit: rain2horeta]

[full][Eng subs] Music Bank: Rain, TVXQ, Ailee, VIXX, TASTY, Girl’s Day, and more. (1/10)

•January 25, 2014 • Leave a Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

KBS Music Bank (뮤직뱅크) from January 10 with Rain, TVXQ, Ailee, VIXX, TASTY, Girl’s Day, Dal Shabet, History, The Boss, WASSUP, and more, as televised by KBS World with English subtitles today, 1/25/2014.

(Source credit: KBS World TV @YT.)

[full][Eng subs] Yu Huiyeol’s Sketchbook: Rain, Younha, Kim Jongseo, U Sungeun (1/10)

•January 25, 2014 • Leave a Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Rain and others on the celebrated and long-running show 유희열의 스케치북 (Yu HuiYeol’s Sketchbook), as broadcast yesterday, 1/24/2014, with English subtitles by KBS World. Rain performs 30 SEXY, It’s Raining, Rainism, Ways to Avoid the Sun, and LA SONG.

(Source credit: KBS World TV @YT.)

[tweets and instagrams abound] Trot meets Pop: A 비진아 (BiJinAh) collab! Plus Rain Effect episode images.

•January 25, 2014 • Leave a Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

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The collaboration between Rain and Tae JinAh (legend and Trot X mainstay) was on like Donkey Kong, thanks to that awesome LASong/Tae JinAh mash-up video from last week. Rain wasted no time this week tweeting and instagraming his excitement over such a fun-filled KBS Music Bank duet with his senior. So cool! 🙂

(Images credit: @29rain / 30rain @Instagram, 1/24 and 25.)

비…진…아… (Rain…Jin…Ah…)

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(We are ready…)

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Dancer/choreographer Soulme couldn’t resist posting this shot of Rain and herself backstage at this week’s Music Bank, 1/24.

(Image credit: Soulmelee @Instagram)

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Mnet Korea couldn’t stop updating us on Rain Effect Episode #6 on the 23rd and 24th, bless them. Something tells me they are just as sorry to see the end of the season as we are.

(Image credits: @MnetKR)

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[fan cam][Eng trans] Rain’s mini fan meet after KBS Music Bank. (1/10)

•January 25, 2014 • Leave a Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Video Credit to RainingAllDay

English translation by 화니

0:18

[Rain] : Thank you.

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[Fans] : Congratulations on topping the chart!

0:37

[Rain] : Thank you.

0:52

[Rain] : It’s hard to open the bottle.

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[A fan] : How handsome you are!

[Rain] : Really? [laughs]

 2:08

[Rain] : Who the hell is the person who bought this? [laughs]

Continue reading ‘[fan cam][Eng trans] Rain’s mini fan meet after KBS Music Bank. (1/10)’

[article] Rain Doesn’t Want to Make Any More Controversial Issues.

•January 25, 2014 • 1 Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Bless his heart. ♥

Truly, if it weren’t for hamster-brain-dead netizens and their desperation for scandals, not to mention the inanity, rumor, and misinformation that serves as a scandal in their world, Rain and his fellow K-celebs might actually stand a chance of being happy for a minute. I don’t even know how the man manages to smile. He and so many others have been through hell. 😡 ^@@^

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MWave/enewsWorld 1/24/2014 —Jung Jin Young / Translation Credit : Yeawon Jung

Rain Doesn’t Want to Make Any More Controversial Issues

After going through some tough times in the past, Rain revealed that he does not wish to create any more controversial issues in his life.

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Mnet’s Rain Effect aired its last episode on January 23, in which Rain said in an interview, “I threw away all my greed. I don’t want to create any more hot issues like I did in the past.”

He also added, “My last goal is to surround myself with good people. I think that’s what a successful life is. With that goal in mind, I’m going to continue to strive to earn people’s trust.

Meanwhile, Rain also held a concert with fans in a small playhouse during the episode.

Photo credit: Mnet

[excerpt][UNITEDKPOP album review] Rain Effect – Bi/Rain.

•January 25, 2014 • 4 Comments

— ^@@^

UnitedKPop (UK) 1/4/2014 — by Ting Ooi

[UNITED KPOP ALBUM REVIEW] Rain Effect — Bi/Rain

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[EXCERPT]

Fresh from the military, Jung Ji Hoon aka Rain is back with a new album to kick off 2014. Here’s our review.

1. Rain Effect Intro song that lasts 30 seconds and a taster of things to come in this album. This song was in one of Rain‘s teaser video clips before he released the full-length MVs for the next two songs in this album.

2. 30 Sexy With heavy funky beats and hand claps this is indeed a hot song where a guy wants a lady to stay with him to party. The lyrics just scream sex. I’ve noticed a lot of people thought Rain originally said “Dirty Sexy” or “Dirty Baby” as opposed to “30 Sexy” and “30 Baby.” Either way it doesn’t lessen the song’s sauciness whatsoever and Rain uses a lot of Falsetto in the catchy chorus, reminding me of Prince and Justin Timberlake. I think what’s even catchier is the music in between the verses. As for the 30 mention itself, it makes me wonder – was Rain implying that being aged 30 is sexy? Is it a shout out to the fans in his age range or much older?

3. LA Song The little circus intro was unexpected but things speed up when the song kicks off into Latin music beat. Rain sings the first verse where he explains he is obedient yet causes trouble. He then raps in the second one which talks about how he may have it all but is nothing like the “cheesy people” who follow him and simply wants to party. Another potential club track to play. Mixing brass instruments and a bit of electric guitar (that little guitar solo is brilliant). Warning – the “lalalala lalala” chorus is going to stick into your head.

4. Where Are You, Oppa? (어디가요. 오빠) feat HyunA Just when you thought 30 Sexy was steamy we then get another sexy idol to collaborate on this album. Rain seems to do more rapping in this track and HyunA adds a cute but seductive voice, asking Oppa to come play with her. Of course Oppa is too busy because he’s being a superstar. Surely this song will inspire girls to use this method to get to their Oppa…

» You can see the rest of this extensive review, including Ting Ooi’s overall remarks, and join in the discussion on the UnitedKPop site HERE. ^@@^

[info] Hawaiian Clouds are gearing up for their annual Hearts With 비 celebration.

•January 25, 2014 • Leave a Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Image credit: Honoluluhomesguide.com

Image credit: Honoluluhomesguide.com

Rain’s tremendous comeback has happened right on time for our Hawaiian Cloud sisters, because their annual Hearts With 비 get-together is always scheduled for right after the new year. They’ve got quite a bit of celebrating to do in support of Rain this time, so I imagine they’ll have one heck of an event. 🙂

Next year, if the stars are in alignment and the matrix is willing, I plan on joining them at Hearts With 비 2015. If anybody knows how to throw an event, it’s Rain’s Hawaiian Cloud!^^

Hearts with BI:
Date: Sunday, February 23, 2014
Time: 11:00 am
Place: Shillawon Restaurant, 747 Amana Street, Honolulu, Hawai’i
Cost: $25.00 per person
Please RSVP by return mail as soon as possible. OR RSVP via Jeon Sa Kekoa’s Facebook.
Space is limited. DEADLINE: February 12, 2014.

(Fan art credit: BiGrrr / Jeon Sa Kekoa)

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[clips][fan cams][Eng CCs] Rain video salad.

•January 23, 2014 • 1 Comment

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

(All caps by Cloud USA)

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Mnet Wide Entertainment News watches the 3 big viewing points of the K-Pop industry at the start of 2014. Yes, Rain, we certainly did notice and appreciate the retro 1980s style you chose. Bravo! 🙂 (Source credit: PlayMnet @YT. English closed-captions. Don’t forget to turn on your CCs!)

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Rain celebrating his Music Bank win and being a bad boy (i.e. doing “Rainism” choreography, haha!) during the “LA Song” encore at the end of Music Bank (1/10). Of course, this isn’t the first time. He’s been sneaking old choreography into his comeback here and there, on the sly. 🙂 (Fan cam credit: 하쓰읍/Ha SeuUeb)

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Star News Korea’s coverage of Rain and his fellow celebs at the VIP movie premiere of Young Hot Bloods, on 1/20. (Source credit: StarNews Korea @YT.)

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LINK: A full fan cam of Rain’s mini fan meet outside of KBS studios after he won Music Bank on 1/10. Somebody kept yelling “Romantic comedy!” so I can only surmise that part of the conversation was about his next possible K-drama.

» Rain’s fan meet after KBS Music Bank, by charlotte/rainalu @youku.

MusicBankWinRainFanmeetSipTheBubbly_CUSA(Taking a sip of the celebratory bubbly!)

[images] Rain Effect check.

•January 23, 2014 • 2 Comments

Cloud cover by: Stephe, Managing Editor ^@@^

Random Rain Goodness: Our “morning angel” from the most recent episode of 1 Night 2 Days. (Image credit: sizuku219)

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Tweets abound: Mnet again announces the final episode (#6) this season of Rain’s reality TV show Rain Effect with this touching image from an intimate concert with fans, where there were no spectacular stages or dancing—just Rain, a simple accompaniment, and his voice, up close and personal. (Image credit: @MnetKR)

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(More Mnet Korea Rain Effect goodness from the Twitterverse…)

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Another image from Rain’s intimate concert in Rain Effect Episode 6. (Source credit: Mnet Korea / courtesy of: ratoka @The Cloud)

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Rain Effect fabulosity served up by the Diamond Supply Co. Korea official blog.

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Rain Effect captures that are bursting with FABulosity! (Images source: michi1108)

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[articles] More comeback performances for Rain? And an emotional Rain Effect filming.

•January 23, 2014 • 4 Comments

— ^@@^

KpopStarz 1/22/2014 — by Diana Shin

Singer Rain Delays Trip To U.S. To Next Week, ‘More Performances?’

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Singer Rain, who was to leave for the U.S. on January 22, has pushed back his trip to next week.
Many are now curious to see if he will be doing more performances with his new songs now that he will be delaying his trip.

Rain was supposed to leave for the U.S. on January 22 and finish filming for the movie, “The Prince.” However, he pushed back his flight to next week. Although he has already finished his performances for “LA SONG,” many believe that he might be continuing his performances for this week.

A video has gained much attention online with Rain’s “LA SONG” and Tae Jin Ah’s “Companion” and many are curious to see if the two will do a collaboration.

Rain’s agency commented, “Due to his sudden schedule change, we are going to have to see what we can do for his schedule for this week.”

On the other hand, Rain has also been receiving many love calls from other U.S. movie agencies and will be attending meetings soon.

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eNewsWorld 1/23/2014 — by Ha Soo Jung / Translation Credit : Yeawon Jung

“Rain Effect” stopped recording due to Rain crying

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Rain burst out crying while he filmed the last episode of Rain Effect, leading to a halt in filming.

It has been revealed that Mnet’s Rain Effect had to stop recording while it was filming the last episode.

A staff of the show stated, “When we were filming Rain’s concert with fans for the last episode, we played a surprise video clip for him. Rain, upon watching the video, couldn’t help but burst out crying. The video featured messages sent from his friends as well as from his father. Rain especially cried a lot when he watched his father on screen, which none of us expected.”

January 23’s episode of Rain Effect will show Rain holding a concert that he prepared himself for fans. The concert will feature Rain without any fancy stages or performances, but simply his voice with a live band.

Stay tuned for the episode airing on January 23 at 11 pm (KST)!

Photo credit: Mnet