The legendary hit Jimmy Jimmy aaja aaja by Bappi Lahiri has already been covered in Russian and even Tibetan, but K-pop idol Aoora is the most recent artist to give the Disco Dancer song a Korean makeover. The 36-year-old’s aspirations to use music to bridge the gap between India and Korea are evident not just in his most recent album but also in his way of life and online activities. The May 25th-released Jimmy Jimmy K-pop remake has now surpassed one million views. Aoora intends to continue writing such songs and hopes to work with King, his favourite Indian performer.
How did you come across this song in the first place and decide to remix it later? Why did it suit K-pop music so well?
Indian music is something I’ve been listening to a lot lately. I first heard this song Jimmy Jimmy aaja aaja [sung by Parvati Khan and written by Bappi Lahiri] about two months ago. Its vigour and the disco beats drew me in. I thought it would be cool to preserve the original disco element of the song while incorporating K-pop beats. That people favour this version makes me glad.
How have the song’s fans—both Korean and Indian—reacted?
Amazingly, there has been a response. It’s clear from the comments I’ve gotten that people like it. I was surprised to see the audience dancing to the song’s hook step during several of my recent performances. It’s demeaning.
You frequently travel to India. When did you decide to use music to connect Korea and India?
K-pop and Indian music both have a strong sense of vitality. I’ve been wanting to do this for a very long time. I’ve learned that combining the many art disciplines can produce startling (in a positive manner) results.
The K-pop fans in India admire you. Why did you feel a connection with individuals from such a diverse culture?
A worldwide language is music. K-pop fans relate to me because they realise that I only write songs that can make people happy.
When you initially arrived in India, what caused you the most culture shock?
More people in Korea favour living alone. When I first saw families still residing together in India, I was quite astonished. But as of late, I’ve had the urge to settle here as well. Relationships are strong, and everyone is very nice and loving.
Do you routinely follow your Instagram account, which is filled with Bollywood-related content?
Oh, absolutely. I follow and enjoy a wide variety of Indian music, including Tamil, Telugu, and Punjabi songs in addition to Bollywood. The songs Naatu Naatu, Badtameez Dil, and Cham Cham are currently some of my favourites.
What Indian phrases have you learned from your travels there?
Jhakkas! Fadu, fadu, hey! What’s up?
The K-pop musician talks about his love for Indian music Debarati S Sen, who has covered the Bollywood song Jimmy Jimmy. (10 June 2023; BOMBAY TIMES)
Even though K-pop music has a large following in India, well-known K-pop musician Park Min-jun, nicknamed Aoora, has openly admitted that he prefers Bollywood music. The singer, rapper, and music producer claims that during his maiden performance in Mumbai in February 2023, he “felt an instant connection with the people of Mumbai” and was so inspired by Indian music that he remade two of Bappi Lahiri’s songs, including Jimmy Jimmy (Disco Dancer, 1982). He will be returning home at the end of this month but is currently in Mumbai for some job obligations.
JIMMY JIMMY AS A DISCO DANCER: RESTORING
When I first heard the song Jimmy Jimmy, I was enthralled by its contemporary and universally attractive beats, claims Aoora. I saw a chance to give it a K-pop spin, which I thought would be interesting and fun. It seemed like the right fit to combine the essence of Bappi Lahiri’s song with the vibrant and dynamic features of K-pop.
“Indian music is one of the main reasons I came to this nation. Its vitality and energy had me spellbound. Indian artists’ upbeat beats, bouncy rhythms, and melodious arrangements consistently make me feel energised.
“I adore Mumbai in every way! I’ve grown so deeply in love with the city that I frequently consider relocating there. It is a location that deeply resonates with me.
“I adore Bollywood tunes for their grandeur. A fascinating experience is produced through the singing, dance, and production quality. Furthermore, I notice a remarkable parallel between the energy of K-pop and Bollywood music.
