BLACKSWAN’s Debut: An Exciting but Controversial Arrival
It's an exciting yet controversial moment as the newly rebranded BLACKSWAN K-pop girl group makes their debut, featuring two foreigners and three Koreans. I do not stan this group, but I know they hold the rebranded potential of RaNia, which makes their journey intriguing. BlackSwan has been starkly labeled with an element of controversy, especially due to the group’s international composition and the possibility of facing backlash over the inclusion of a Senegalese member.
Debut Song and First Impressions
Their debut song, titled 'Tonight', receives a mixed response but marks a start for the group. The song, while not being a breakthrough hit, retains some charm. The chorus highlights the group’s potential, adding a rock/pop vibe reminiscent of the mid-2010s. Despite my personal dislike for that era, I believe the group’s sound will evolve with time and experience.
Visually, the group appears stunning, each member exuding gorgeousness and potential. Fatou's rap vocal performance stands out, though her verse could have been more impactful in the song. The video, on the other hand, is well-styled but could have been better for Fatou's one-of-a-kind hair, which seems to be a point of particular excitement and possibly adjustment.
Future Prospects and Concerns
While BLACKSWAN’s debut can be seen as a step in the right direction, there are concerns about the group’s reception and long-term viability. There is a risk that they might be labeled as 'the K-pop group with the black girl', similar to what RaNia faced with Alex Reid. Will Fatou be treated as an equal member or should she be seen as a standout, potentially for her rapped vocals only? These are the questions that linger, and I fervently hope that Breaking Record Entertainment (DR) aims for better treatment of Fatou to avoid the same past mistakes.
Historical Context and Lessons
Before their rebranding, the group was known as BP Rania, featuring a black member, Alex Reid. BP Rania's issues with adequately tutoring Alex, along with the forced changes to her role and the inconsistent styling, led to a heavily debated reception. The inconsistent use of outfits, like the stark contrast between Alex's outfit and her other group members', notably highlighted the stark inconsistency they faced during their previous run.
For example, Wendy, a member of Blackpink, was often seen in uniform outfits that paired well together. In comparison, Alex's outfits during BP Rania often didn't align with the rest of the group’s aesthetic, detracting from her natural talent and presence as a leader. This skewed portrayal could have added to the controversy surrounding Alex and the group, and it's a cautionary tale for BREAKING RECORD Entertainment as they strive to shape BLACKSWAN’s identity.
Final Thoughts and Future Views
Despite the past incidents, BLACKSWAN holds great potential. Their debut is a step towards proving their worth, and it’s a reason for excitement. However, it’s crucial for BREAKING RECORD Entertainment to address past controversies and ensure that every member of the group receives the respect and recognition they deserve. Fatou, with her rapped vocals, brings a unique talent to the group and should be given the same opportunity to flourish and be an integral part of BLACKSWAN's narrative. The group's journey is only beginning, and I'm looking forward to seeing how they evolve and overcome challenges.