Korean American Hip Hop artist Johnnyphlo has just announced the debut of his new website, single, and video today. The song, entitled “White Lie” features the amazingly talented Ailee and has already created a lot of buzz.
Up until this point, Johnnyphlo may be most known for his performance at the finals of JYPE’s 2008 talent search.
Make sure to check it all out at the following:
Here’s the video:
Check for my thoughts on the single and video after the break.
Although I know Johnnyphlo personally I can objectively say that the single itself is incredibly strong. Everything about it is extremely polished and both Johnnyphlo and Ailee are 100% onpoint on this one. I am honestly hard struck to find any flaw with it.
On the other hand, the video I have somewhat mixed feelings for. I was present for the video shoot and it’s a blast to see what was able to be crafted from the material. That being said I still have some qualms with some of the creative elements of the video. Specifically the pacing and delivery of the story arc as a whole seemed a bit uneven and awkward. Also, the story as a whole can be described as unoriginal and even a bit cheesy. However it all still manages to come together in a way that its very entertaining. The very fact that it even has a story makes it stand out from the ton of other music videos from other amateur aspiring asian american music artists. It attempts to go in a different direction than most Hip-Hop MVs and does so in a pretty enjoyable, but far from perfect, matter.
Technically, the video is pretty solid with good shots, interesting use of imagery, foreshadowing, cuts, and acting. The chemistry between the two leads is very believable, even to the point where I have been asked by other viewers if they are a real couple. The couple parts with actual dialogue aren’t the strongest but still serve their purpose. Lastly, the overall quality is pretty impressive, especially considering the conditions of the shoot.
The video may not be a masterpiece, and is definitely not perfect, but it still has a charming quality to it that makes it more entertaining then the sum of it’s parts would lead you to believe.
a-Tunes 
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