2023 KMAFe Lifetime Achievement Award (Korean)

Hee Eun Yang

Hee-Eun yang stands out as a distinctive figure in the history of popular music in South Korea. Her signature debut track, “Morning Dew,” transcended the realm of a mere chart-topper to become a poignant symbol of its era.
 
Upon her debut in 1971, her crystalline voice exerted a palpable influence on the lives, musings, and ambiance of the youth during a perplexing and desolate period. In the midst of societal tumult, “Morning Dew” emerged as a musical emblem encapsulating both the essence of ‘Romantic Youth Culture,’ characterized by denim, draft beer, and acoustic guitars, and the unyielding ‘Critical Spirit of the Times’ that resisted compromising with reality.
 
Her contribution to the music landscape extends beyond notes and melodies, bearing profound cultural significance. As the sole female singer in the predominantly male folk music scene of that time, she shattered stereotypes surrounding female vocalists with her unadorned voice, forging a new narrative for ‘female vocalists’ in the nation. Venturing beyond conventional love ballads, her repertoire encompassed diverse pieces like ‘Morning Dew,’ ‘Evergreen Tree,’ ‘Jesus with a Crown of Thorns,’ and ‘White Dog,’ enriching the tapestry of popular music. This creative diversity was the outcome of collaborative musical ventures with peers such as Kim Min-gi, Lee Joo-won, Ha Deok-gyu, and Lee Byung-woo.

Despite unintentionally assuming the role of a heavyweight in the industry, showcasing the potency and communicative prowess of music, she garnered the endearing moniker of ‘National Aunt’ over time. Through the airwaves, she continued to offer solace to our weary shoulders. Music critic Lim Jin-mo astutely noted, “She resisted conforming to the established norms of popular songs, leaving an indelible mark on the thoughts and lives of younger artists and fans.”
 
Her 52-year journey in the industry has entrenched her as a figure who, whether sought or not, emanates a substantial and somewhat formidable presence—softly tapping on our fatigued shoulders through the medium of radio waves.

2023 KMAFe Lifetime Achievement Award

Curtis Blow

Curtis Blow, born on August 9, 1959, is a multifaceted American artist. He wears many hats—rapper, singer, songwriter, record/film producer, b-boy, DJ, public speaker, and minister. Notably, he holds the distinction of being the inaugural commercially successful rapper and the first to ink a deal with a major record label.
 
In an era when rap was still finding its audience, Kurtis held significant sway over the youth, including Russell’s 14-year-old brother, Joseph, who joined him as DJ Run, the Son of Kurtis Blow.
 
In the years 1978-79, Kurtis worked at the Disco Fever alongside Grandmaster Flash. He later collaborated with DJ and producer Davy DMX. A pivotal moment came when a Billboard reporter named Robert Ford reached out, providing them with magazine coverage. Despite the success of their first single, “Christmas Rappin’,” major labels hesitated, viewing rap as a fleeting trend. Eventually, an A&R man from Mercury recognized Kurtis Blow’s potential and signed him—the first rapper ever signed to a major label.
 
“The Breaks,” remains a recognizable classic. Kurtis then ventured into political rap with “Hard Times,” later covered by Run DMC. Around this time, he assisted The Disco Three in securing their own deal, leading to their incarnation as The Fat Boys.
 
Kurtis Blow’s influence extended to the big screen, starring in Krush Groove and delivering a memorable performance of “If I Ruled the World.” In 1986, he collaborated with Dexter King on “King’s Holiday,” featuring hip-hop luminaries like Run-D.M.C., Whodini, Grandmaster Melle Mel, and The Fat Boys.
 
His footprint in hip-hop continued with appearances in the documentary film The Show and a feature on LEN’s CD, “You Can’t Stop the Bum Rush,” in 1999. While no longer producing new material, Kurtis remains a global tour presence and a key figure in hip-hop behind the scenes. His compilation, “Kurtis Blow Presents The History of Rap,” stands as a testament to his legacy, accompanied by insightful liner notes. Additionally, he is actively working on a film documenting the rich history of hip-hop.