A Comparison of 'So Bad' by StayC and 'Black Mamba' by AESPA: Preferences and Insights
When it comes to K-pop music, it can be quite the challenge to decide which song or video reigns supreme. In this discussion, we explore the preferences and insights of one music enthusiast regarding the debut songs 'So Bad' by StayC and 'Black Mamba' by AESPA. Let's dive into the comparison and find out more about these two compelling K-pop tracks.
Personal Preferences: Bias or True Taste?
The author of this piece has a clear bias toward the group Aespa, which might influence their opinion on the songs. Aespa's 'Black Mamba' was a great debut song but did not immediately capture the author's attention, with the sentiment that it was 'just another good song.' Conversely, the debut song by StayC, 'So Bad,' received a more enthusiastic reception, becoming a week-long favorite in the author's listening habits due to its pleasing melody.
Despite personal biases, the author provided a balanced comparison, stating that they slightly enjoy 'Black Mamba' over 'So Bad.' The author attributes this preference to enjoying the beat of 'Black Mamba' more than the chorus of 'So Bad.' This underscores the importance of the auditory experience in K-pop music, where the beat can significantly influence fan engagement.
It's also worth mentioning that the author has done research to understand the context behind 'Black Mamba.' They found that the song is named after a snake, but the lyrics do not clearly define it. Instead, the author points out that the costume design (CG) was intentional, reminiscent of other K-pop acts and anime characters.
Anthological Analysis of Choreography and Visuals
A critical aspect of K-pop songs is the visual experience, often encapsulated in music videos. The author observes the choreography of 'Black Mamba' as potentially sexualized, drawing parallels with Twice. This suggests a broader trend in K-pop, where dance elements can enhance fan engagement, although sometimes in ways that might be controversial or lead to misunderstandings.
For 'So Bad,' the author notes that the beat is catchy and engages the listener even more so with the na-na bit. They also comment positively on the lyrics and choreography, emphasizing the effective use of CG without going overboard. The author gives a mixed review of the video, noting a specific scene that reminded them of a previous Blackpink video, indicating a trend in K-pop musical videos borrowing from older acts to appeal to a broader audience.
Conclusion: A Mixed Bag
Ultimately, both 'So Bad' and 'Black Mamba' have their strengths and are influenced by similar trends in K-pop. While 'Black Mamba' may resonate more with the author due to its dance elements, 'So Bad' is appreciated for its catchy beat and well-executed CG. The author concludes that neither acts in a way that wins or loses, simply offering different forms of entertainment to cater to various fan preferences.
The author's perspective serves as a valuable discussion point for K-pop enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of both auditory and visual elements in the music-making process. By carefully analyzing their preferences, the author demonstrates a deeper understanding of what makes one K-pop song stand out over another.