Dispelling the Myth: Are Aespa and Blackpink Copies?
One of the recurring debates in the K-pop industry is the notion that Aespa, a group under SM Entertainment, could be considered a copycat of Blackpink. This argument gained traction mainly due to their four-member lineup and similar girl-crush concept. However, a closer look at the two groups reveals that they are distinct entities with their own unique identities and approaches within the K-pop sphere.
The Four-Member Lineup and Beyond
Is Aespa a copy of Blackpink simply because both have four members? Not exactly. The four-member lineup is certainly a point of similarity, but the music and concept worlds of Aespa and Blackpink are vastly different.
Aespa: Experimental and Story-driven
Aespa is known for its experimental approach, blending experimentation with storytelling into their music. The group has a storyline or a narrative that unfolds across their songs, providing a deeper connection with their audience. Unlike Blackpink, who focus on a more cohesive and singular concept, Aespa offers a more diverse and intricate musical journey.
Blackpink: A Cohesive Concept
Blackpink, often referred to as 'one of my favorite original K-pop queens,' has a more cohesive and unified concept, revolving around the girl crush idea. This concept has been their signature for years, setting Blackpink apart from other K-pop groups. They are widely recognized for their global presence and significant fanbase, which contributes to their enduring popularity.
No Copycats
The notion that Aespa is copying Blackpink is debunked by looking at their musical and lyrical themes. While Blackpink's girl crush concept can be seen as an inspiration, Aespa's sci-fi video game concept is unique and distinct. Moreover, the girl-crush concept itself is not original to Blackpink; it was first brought to the forefront by 2NE1, another four-member group under YG Entertainment.
Sm and Aespa's Vision
Aespa was built by SM Entertainment to create a new universe within the company's roster. The group's members are deeply integrated into the Kwangya concept, which serves as the foundation for the entire Aespa universe. This approach allows Aespa to have a unique identity that differentiates them from other four-member groups in the industry.
The Reality of K-pop Fan Theories
While it's not uncommon for K-pop fans to speculate about the similarities between different groups, it's important to remember that not all similarities are copycatting. Both Aespa and Blackpink have received criticism for various reasons, but these criticisms often stem from a lack of understanding of the unique visions and narratives each group has crafted for themselves.
Conclusion
In essence, Aespa and Blackpink are not copies of each other. While they share a four-member lineup, their musical styles, concepts, and narratives are distinct. The debate about whether Aespa is copying Blackpink often overlooks the fact that K-pop groups, just like any other form of art, are influenced by various sources. What distinguishes Aespa from Blackpink is their commitment to their unique vision and storytelling, making them two separate and compelling entities within the industry.
Signing out~