EPIK HIGH

(From left to right: Tablo, DJ Tukutz,  Mithra)

COMPOSED of three members, Tablo, Mithra and DJ Tukutz, Epik High is a hip-hop group with a perfect format of two MCs and one DJ. Their music is known to be as lyrical as a piece of literature and at the same time very witty and paradoxical. All three members of the band are singers and song-writers; starting with composing melodies, the members are all capable of writing lyrics and song arrangements.

Epik High was relatively unknown to Koreans in the beginning of its career due to hip-hop music’s lack of popularity in Korea. Their success began with the release of their second album, titled “High Society”. Upon the success of their third album, “Swan Songs”, released in late 2005, Epik High has become one of the most popular hip-hop figures in Korea. Their fourth album, “Remapping the Human Soul”, released in early 2007 has shown a very different music style from their previous albums, with the members deciding to head towards a ‘no genre, just music’ style. Their fifth album entitled “Pieces, Part One” was released in April of 2008. The album was leaked over the internet, however, this did not impede the success of the album when it was released.

Epik High never fails to capture the attention of the fans, whether it be for the creative and genuine lyrics or their explicit music videos (which, in some cases, have been banned from Korean television), they are a group that shouldn’t be missed.
Epik High is without a doubt the premier hip hop group in Korea. Each work they release garners unanimous praise from both music critics and the general public, and, after six years since their debut, they remain on top of the game, whether the measure is by popularity, sales, or influence. Their lyrical ability, especially, is unrivaled in the Korean music scene; Epik High’s verses can be treated as works of literature, and this is one of the many artistically progressive elements that makes the group what it is. Add to that social consciousness and a positive attitude, a serious love for the musical craft, and the innocence present within their lyrics…… all of these are reasons why we never lose faith in Epik High’s music.

Tablo left Woollim Entertainment and is now signed to YG Entertianment; he released “Airbag” ft. Naul (Brown Eyed Soul) after the two long year battle of his educational qualification. Tablo’s first solo album was release on Nov 1st under YG entertainment. DJ Tukutz had successfully completed his 2 year mandatory military service and his wife is expecting a baby. Mithra has successfully completed his mandatory military service.

Epik High is currently all signed under YG Entertainment; they are making a comeback with a new album with the help of YG for September 2012.

AWARDS

2005

  • KBS Music Awards, Artist of the Year (tied)
  • SBS Music Awards, Artist of the Year (Hip-Hop)
  • Korean Golden Disk Awards, Best Hip-Hop Artist
  • Mnet KM Music Video Festival Awards, Best Hip-Hop Music Video

2007

  • 2007 M.NET/KM Music Festival: Album of the Year (Remapping the Human Soul)
  • 2007 M.NET/KM Music Festival: HipHop (Fan)
  • Korean Golden Disk Awards, Bonsang (Fan, traditional remix during performance)

2008

  • 17th Seoul Music Awards: Bonsang (Fan)
  • 17th Seoul Music Awards: Best Album
  • 2008 M.NET/KM Music Festival: Hip Hop

2009

  • 2009 Golden Disk awards: Hip Hop

SPECIAL THANKS: 
KBS : biography text (partial).
WIKIPEDIA: partial biography text, discography tracklistings.
PICTURES & OTHER INFO: mapthesoul.com