Shin Seung-hun Reflects on 35 Years: "Between Passion and Numbness" as He Unveils 'SINCERELY MELODIES'

Veteran singer Shin Seung-hun has opened up about the challenges of aging in the music industry as he celebrates his 35th debut anniversary.

At a press conference held on the afternoon of the 22nd at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Seoul, the artist discussed his 12th full-length album, 'SINCERELY MELODIES'. He explained the album's title signifies 'Melodies Crafted with Sincerity'.

"I want to say these are truly authentic melodies, crafted from the heart," Shin Seung-hun stated. "I truly put my heart into making this album. I wrote each song as if it were my last."

Reflecting on his long career, he confessed, "As time passes, there's a certain numbness that sets in, unlike the passion of my youth. I might not be able to write all the songs myself for much longer." He added, "Looking back, the sincerity was evident, which is why I titled it 'SINCERELY MELODIES'. I've always written every song as if it were a title track. I hope you'll listen to all the songs and appreciate the album as a whole. While there are collaborations like omnibuses or short films, a full album is special. It truly represents the highs and lows of life, like the four seasons."

Having composed and produced all tracks, Shin Seung-hun shared difficulties with lyric writing. "People ask why I don't write lyrics myself, but I can't seem to nowadays due to this numbness. After 'A Day of Parting Twice' on my 9th album, I haven't been able to write lyrics. My back hurts so much when I try; I can only manage about 15 minutes."

He revealed a turning point came recently when musician Shim Hyun-bo visited his home. "Shim Hyun-bo came to my house and said, 'Hyung, you should write. You have a special gene for lyrics, why are you letting it go?' I told him, 'It's not coming out anymore,' but he gave me courage," Shin Seung-hun recalled. "He mentioned 'Invisible Love' as one of the three best examples of lyrics he uses in lectures. That gave me the courage to try again, and that's how this album came to be."

Shin Seung-hun's 12th full-length album, 'SINCERELY MELODIES', will be released tomorrow, the 23rd, at 6 PM.

Shin Seung-hun, often hailed as the 'Emperor of Ballads,' rose to prominence in the 1990s with his distinctive vocal style and heartfelt songwriting. His music has consistently resonated with audiences, characterized by its emotional depth and melodic richness. This latest album is anticipated to showcase his continued artistic evolution and enduring musicality.