Korea and Japan are geographically and culturally close, and indie musicians from both nations routinely visit each other. My favorite Korean artist is Lee Lang. She's best known for her music, but she's also a multi-artist who creates comics, writes essays, and shoots films.
I've seen three of her concerts, one of which included a film screening and discussion. She speaks some Japanese, but not fluently. However, she spoke almost entirely without interpretation. I was so impressed by what she said and how she spoke. She attempted to get at the truth with simple words. Her thoughts were profound, humble, confident, and at the same time, very funny. I wish I could be like her, no matter what language I'm speaking.
In Japan, she performs with Japanese subtitles on the screen behind her, allowing us to comprehend her songs. Here's my fave song of hers with English subtitles:
Wow, Akiko, this could've been written by a native. Great work!
@CocoPop Thank you, Uly! I stopped writing weekly "Words and Phrases" review posts, and instead of that, I'm going through my posts one by one, reading them aloud until I can narrate it effortlessly. I'll read this post even more times than the others because you complimented it!
I hope this helps: https://record.reverb.chat/s/5OKuiHi64ExClD8TZn3N
@CocoPop Thank you so much, Uly! I responded your recording. I'm a bit embarrassed to listen to my recorded voice, but I'm sure it's beneficial. The generated transcription from my recording includes the part Indian musicians instead of indie musicians, but my jaw hurt from practicing, so I'll wrap up this post review.
https://record.reverb.chat/s/tjbc4eeKhp9nK28phi0x
I think you have an excellent grasp of the English sound system. I understood every single word. The only observation I have is to stress the first syllable of subtitles. Other than that, you would benefit from shadowing my recording for the correct rhythm β your recording was a little robotic. But I realize you were focusing on the sounds. Great job!!!
@CocoPop Thank you! Your unbiased comments are really helpful. My jaw doesn't hurt anymore, so I'll work on shadowing your recording more.
You're very welcome :) I also have shadowing exercises on my videos in the playlist Sounds of American English: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2ARI0UPusAP3TMJhccKtofxdzWgAMetF
Akiko, welcome to the club. What club? The glorious club of those who cringe at the sound of their own voices. I'd rather jump out of a window than listen to my own voice.
You can say that out loud. Maybe someone will get the message eventually.
π
@CocoPop I watched all of your videos, but I haven't practiced the shadowing part sufficiently. I'll do that till I can perfectly shadow them.
I'm going to make a new playlist with nothing but real-life conversations to shadow π
@CocoPop Wow, I'm really looking forward to it! I should go back over your website and YouTube channel. That alone will make a significant difference in my English skills.
@Simone- I'm honored to be a part of that glorious club! I'm going to introduce Journaly and Uly's outstanding work to English learners in Japan.