Singer-Songwriter Lee Mujin Releases New Single 'Bird on the Edge' with a Message of Resilience

What kind of '뱁새(Babsae · Korean crow-tit) does singer-songwriter Lee Mujin envision? While the Korean proverb 'A crow-tit will break its legs trying to follow a stork' suggests futility in overreaching, Lee Mujin's '뱁새' seems to walk its own path without the need to chase anyone.

On the 27th at 6 PM, Lee Mujin released his digital single '뱁새'(Bird on the Edge) across various music platforms. This new track comes approximately seven months after his last release, the mini-album 'Manhwa'. While the title track 'Youth Manhwa' from 'Manhwa' expressed the diverse emotions of youth through the metaphor of 'flowers', 'Babsae' delves deeper into the inner world post-loss, offering a richer emotional narrative.

'Bird on the Edge' combines Lee Mujin's signature dramatic band sound with spacious vocals, delivering a message of comfort to those left alone after giving their all but ultimately facing collapse. Lyrics like 'It's okay even if it ends like this' and 'You regretted enough not to love' articulate the resilience of those enduring despair, evoking deep empathy. Additionally, the line 'Sometimes, the saying that it will work out if you keep trying, sometimes it just keeps failing' offers profound solace.

The key point of interest is the new message Lee Mujin crafts through the keyword '뱁새'. Traditionally, the '뱁새', a small bird about 10cm in size, has been synonymous with insignificance and powerlessness. However, Lee Mujin's '뱁새' is expected to convey a third message, one that neither chases the stork nor needs to break its legs.

The music video showcases an evolved concept and visual style. Under a crimson sky, a discarded sofa and an old factory setting, along with Lee Mujin's serene gaze, symbolically capture the solitude and inner strength of youth in reality. Lee Mujin's image in this setting is notably different, drawing attention.

Lee Mujin has consistently captivated listeners with his unique narratives and emotions through songs like 'Traffic Light', 'Assignment Song', 'Episode', 'Couldn't Find a Reason Not to Propose', and 'Youth Manhwa'. He has also solidified his position as an emotional vocalist by contributing to popular drama OSTs such as tvN's 'Hospital Playlist', SBS's 'Business Proposal', 'Now, We Are Breaking Up', and tvN's 'Diva of the Deserted Island'.

Beyond music, Lee Mujin connects with the public through his comfortable charm as an MC and entertainer. He has expanded his activity spectrum by appearing in web variety shows like 'Limousine Service' and MBC Every1's 'Great Guide 2'.

With sincere lyrics filled with comfort and a deep vocal tone, Lee Mujin continues to evolve with each album. Anticipation builds for the portrayal of '뱁새' in his latest release.

Choi Ji-ye, Ten Asia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr