Weki Meki's I AM ME Era: Understanding Siesta's Musical Journey

"iamme" represented a pivotal moment in K-pop that redefined how girl groups approach musical identity and self-expression. When Weki Meki released this meaningful EP in 2021, they didn't just drop another collection of songs—they made a definitive statement about artistic growth and authenticity.

The fourth extended play "I Am Me." marked a significant evolution for Weki Meki, featuring "Siesta" as its confident title track. Previously known for their energetic and youthful concepts, the group embraced a more mature sound with this release. Indeed, the tropical house elements and introspective lyrics of "Siesta" showcased a new musical direction that resonated deeply with longtime fans while attracting new listeners.

The context of Weki Meki’s I Am Me. era

Weki Meki entered 2021 facing a distinctive set of challenges within the ever-evolving K-pop landscape. Following their debut in 2017 under Fantagio Entertainment, the eight-member group had established a foundation with their energetic performances and youthful concepts, yet still sought to carve out a more distinctive identity among the crowded fourth-generation girl group scene.

The group's position in 2021

By early 2021, Weki Meki had already released three mini-albums and several single albums, developing a discography characterized by bright, teen-crush concepts and high-energy dance tracks. Their previous releases like "Picky Picky" (2019) and "Dazzle Dazzle" (2020) showcased their signature style but hadn't yet achieved the breakthrough commercial success that would elevate them to top-tier status in the industry.

The group found themselves at a critical juncture. Despite possessing undeniable talent and a dedicated fanbase called Ki-Lings, they were operating in an increasingly competitive market where groups needed something truly distinctive to stand out. Moreover, 2021 represented that crucial mid-career period for Weki Meki—no longer newcomers but not yet veterans—when many K-pop acts either solidify their artistic identity or risk fading from public consciousness.

Furthermore, the global pandemic had fundamentally altered the K-pop landscape. With in-person events severely limited, groups increasingly relied on digital content and conceptual innovation to maintain relevance. This created both challenges and opportunities for mid-tier groups like Weki Meki to redefine themselves.

Throughout this period, members had begun showcasing their individual talents through various activities. Choi Yoojung and Kim Doyeon, who had previously gained recognition through their participation in the survival show "Produce 101," continued to build their individual profiles through acting and variety show appearances, helping maintain the group's visibility.

Why this EP was a turning point

The release of "I Am Me." in November 2021 marked a significant evolution in Weki Meki's artistic trajectory. Unlike their previous works that largely adhered to bright teen-crush concepts, this fourth EP signaled a more mature musical direction and a stronger emphasis on self-expression and authenticity.

Most notably, the EP's title itself—"I Am Me."—communicated a powerful message about self-identity and confidence, reflecting the members' growth both as artists and young women. This thematic shift wasn't merely cosmetic but represented a deliberate strategy to reposition the group within the industry.

The selection of "Siesta" as the title track further underscored this transformation. Moving away from their typically high-energy dance tracks, "Siesta" incorporated tropical house elements and more nuanced production, showcasing a more sophisticated sound. This musical evolution allowed Weki Meki to highlight their versatility while maintaining elements of their established musical identity.

Beyond the music itself, the EP's promotional strategy emphasized the members' involvement in the creative process. The concept photos, music video aesthetics, and choreography all reflected a more cohesive artistic vision that balanced youthful energy with newfound maturity.

Consequently, "I Am Me." became more than just another release in Weki Meki's discography—it represented a crucial redefinition of their identity at a pivotal moment in their career. The EP demonstrated their ability to evolve artistically while staying true to their core appeal, giving them a stronger foundation for long-term sustainability in an industry known for its rapid turnover of trends and acts.

In essence, through "I Am Me." and its title track "Siesta," Weki Meki wasn't just releasing new music—they were making a statement about who they were becoming as artists and where they intended to position themselves in the constantly shifting K-pop landscape.

Pre-release build-up and concept teasers

Fantagio Entertainment kicked off the promotion of "iamme" with a strategic pre-release campaign that distinguished it from Weki Meki's previous releases. The company announced the album on November 8, 2021, with a 'coming soon' poster, immediately followed by a release scheduler that outlined the upcoming promotional content. This careful planning demonstrated a more sophisticated approach to the group's comeback, reflecting their artistic growth after celebrating their fourth anniversary.

Mood films and member quotes

Perhaps the most notable aspect of the pre-release campaign was the series of introspective mood films featuring each member. These emotional video snippets showcased a more vulnerable side of Weki Meki, with each member expressing personal thoughts and reflections. Remarkably, the narration for these films wasn't crafted by company writers but was written by the members themselves, creating an authentic connection with their audience.

The mood films represented a significant departure from typical K-pop teasers, as they captured the members' genuine thoughts and emotions rather than simply presenting stylized visuals. According to official sources, these narrations told "a calm yet deep story", highlighting the more mature direction of "I Am Me."

Kim Doyeon, in particular, took on a more extensive creative role, participating in planning both the overall album concept and the mood films. This increased member involvement signaled a shift toward greater artistic autonomy within Weki Meki, aligning with the self-expression themes central to the "I Am Me." era.

Visual themes and teaser images

The visual elements of the pre-release campaign were organized around two distinct concepts: "Emotion" and "Identity". These themes directly connected to the album's introspective message about authenticity and self-discovery.

The first set of promotional images, released on November 9 under the "Emotion" concept, began with Ji Suyeon, followed by Rina, Sei, and Yoojung. The next day saw the release of Lua's photo first, followed by Lucy, Elly, and finally Doyeon. This methodical rollout built anticipation while giving each member individual spotlight.

On November 11, Fantagio unveiled the second concept, appropriately titled "Identity." This release included not only individual member photos but also a group mood film that tied together the individual narratives into a collective statement.

Visually, one notable concept portrayed the members as "forest fairies in white", creating an ethereal aesthetic that contrasted with their previous, more energetic concepts. This dreamy, natural imagery reinforced the themes of authentic self-expression and inner beauty that defined the "I Am Me." era.

Throughout the teaser period, the visual storytelling remained consistent with the album's overarching message. Fantagio described the release as capturing "their true self", positioning it as a turning point in Weki Meki's career. The cohesive nature of the teasers—from the personally written narrations to the thematic visuals—created a pre-release campaign that felt genuinely reflective of the members' artistic voices rather than merely a marketing exercise.

Siesta as the title track: musical style and genre

Released as the title track of "I AM ME.", Siesta showcases a musical departure that balances familiarity with sonic evolution for Weki Meki. The track immediately captivates listeners with its energetic production while introducing more sophisticated musical elements than their previous releases.

Tropical house and synth-pop elements

"Siesta" blends multiple contemporary genres into a cohesive musical experience. At its core, it's a pop track that incorporates distinct elements of electronica and deep house, creating a multilayered soundscape. This fusion gives the song its distinctive character while maintaining accessibility for casual listeners.

Interestingly, the track's name presents an intentional contradiction. "Siesta," meaning "nap" in Spanish, contrasts sharply with the song's vibrant, energetic production. This juxtaposition serves as a clever metaphor for the group's artistic awakening, suggesting that after a period of rest comes renewed energy and purpose.

The verses feature synth instrumentals that, though sometimes described as "plain" or "generic" by some reviewers, provide a foundation that spotlights the members' vocals. These sections incorporate deep house elements that hint at the song's direction without fully revealing it. During these moments, the production takes a restrained approach, creating anticipation for what's to come.

Beginning with the pre-chorus, "Siesta" transforms dramatically. The arrangement "ramps up in a spectacular fashion," bridging the more subdued verses with an explosive chorus. This dynamic shift exemplifies skilled production, using tension and release to create a satisfying payoff for listeners.

The chorus itself represents the track's musical peak, characterized by:

Powerful brass elements that add warmth and energy
Electronic production that creates a modern, club-ready sound
Driving percussion that propels the song forward
Simple yet infectious hooks that lodge in listeners' memory

These elements combine to create what one reviewer called an "almost explosive" energy. Nevertheless, despite this intensity, the chorus maintains a certain lightness through its melodic choices, creating a balanced sound that feels "refreshing and revitalizing".

How it differs from previous title tracks

"Siesta" represents a significant evolution from Weki Meki's earlier title tracks. While maintaining their characteristic energy, the song introduces a more sophisticated production approach that signals artistic growth.

Previously, Weki Meki had established themselves with bright, teen-crush concepts and high-energy dance tracks. Singles like "Picky Picky" and "Dazzle Dazzle" showcased a youthful exuberance that defined their early identity. Conversely, "Siesta" presents a "much more straightforward club track" that embraces a more mature sound without abandoning their core appeal.

The incorporation of tropical house and Latin-inspired elements particularly distinguishes "Siesta" from their earlier work. These musical choices reflect broader trends in K-pop while allowing Weki Meki to explore new sonic territory. The "insistent pulse of percussion" creates a driving force throughout the track that feels more confident and assured than their previous releases.

Particularly, the chorus structure demonstrates their musical evolution. Unlike earlier title tracks that might rely primarily on catchy hooks, "Siesta" balances its infectious chorus with more complex production elements. The "electronic brass elements blend seamlessly with the melody", creating a sophisticated sound that elevates beyond typical pop production.

Vocally, "Siesta" also showcases growth, with reviewers noting that "the members sounded great throughout". The track provides opportunities for both vocalists and rappers to shine, highlighting the group's versatility and technical improvement since debut.

Though some reviewers found aspects of the song "somewhat plain" or felt the chorus approached "cloying territory", the consensus recognized "Siesta" as representing a noteworthy step in Weki Meki's musical development—one that maintained their fundamental appeal while pushing into new sonic directions appropriate for a group entering a more mature phase of their career.

Breaking down the lyrics of Siesta

The lyrical narrative of "Siesta" unfolds as a poetic journey through Weki Meki's experiences and aspirations. Beneath its tropical house production lies a thoughtfully crafted storyline that captures the group's evolution and dreams, creating a multi-layered experience for listeners.

Verse 1: Nostalgia and routine

The opening verse immediately establishes contrast between past dreams and present reality: "Unlike how I imagined it a very long time ago, every day is the same Monday to Friday." This reflection acknowledges the gap between youthful expectations and adult responsibilities. Yet despite this seeming disappointment, the lyrics pivot toward resilience with "It's still clear, innocently, we dreamed, cried, and laughed."

Subsequently, the verse builds an emotional bridge to the past with "Memories of that time, the shattered pieces shine like those stars." This metaphor transforms potentially painful fragments of memory into something beautiful and inspiring. The verse concludes with a powerful promise: "I'll lift you up when you're weary over and over again," establishing the supportive relationship between Weki Meki and their fans.

Pre-chorus: Emotional ignition

The pre-chorus shifts the emotional landscape dramatically through vivid imagery: "The cold wind is blowing from far away in the darkness." Initially suggesting adversity, this line surprisingly transforms into empowerment with "It makes us burn up more." This unexpected twist reveals how challenges actually fuel Weki Meki's determination rather than extinguishing it.

Essentially, the pre-chorus functions as the emotional catalyst for the song, with "Yeah, feel the sparks come alive in your heart, light the fire beautifully" creating the perfect transition to the energetic chorus.

Chorus: Celebration and awakening

The chorus explodes with newfound energy, declaring "Let's get it, you are my siesta" before commanding listeners to "Rub your eyes" – a clear metaphor for awakening from complacency. The repetition of "Boom, boom, fireworks" creates an infectious celebration of this awakening.

Interestingly, the line "The brief nap is over" directly references the title "Siesta," revealing that the song isn't actually about rest but about the renewal that follows it. This clever contradiction mirrors Weki Meki's artistic awakening during the "I Am Me." era.

Bridge: Realization and empowerment

The bridge delivers the song's most empowering message with "As much as you want, shout it out," encouraging uninhibited self-expression. The acknowledgment "I know you've been waiting for a long time" speaks directly to both the members' personal journeys and their relationship with fans.

Ultimately, the bridge culminates in a decisive call to action: "Okay, it's time to turn everything upside down," signaling Weki Meki's readiness to challenge expectations and reinvent themselves. The final line, "More endlessly, the sky that will fill us up," creates a sense of infinite possibility – perfectly capturing the spirit of growth and renewal central to the "I Am Me." era.

Themes explored in Siesta

Beyond catchy hooks and tropical house beats, "Siesta" delves into profound thematic territory that showcases Weki Meki's artistic maturity within the iamme era. The song weaves together multiple layers of meaning through its lyrical narrative.

Hope and resilience

At its core, "Siesta" serves as an anthem of perseverance through difficulty. The lyrical journey begins with an acknowledgment of monotony: "Every day is the same Monday to Friday," yet quickly pivots toward hopeful determination. This emotional trajectory mirrors Weki Meki's own journey in the industry—facing challenges yet continuing to pursue their dreams.

The powerful promise "I'll lift you up when you're weary over and over again" establishes an unbreakable bond between the group and their supporters. Similarly, lines about "dream again higher and higher to a height that you haven't climbed yet" reflect an unwavering resilience.

Interestingly, the lyrics transform potential weaknesses into strengths. The "cold wind... in the darkness" doesn't extinguish their fire but instead "makes us burn up more." This resilient spirit becomes a central theme throughout the song, capturing Weki Meki's determination to overcome industry obstacles.

Freedom and self-expression

The theme of liberation features prominently in "Siesta," especially during the bridge and chorus sections. The directive to "shout it out" encourages unrestricted emotional expression, alongside the declaration "we can't stop this moment of freedom."

Throughout the track, there's a consistent message about breaking free from constraints. The line "let go of your worries into the sky" suggests emotional release, whereas "run higher, we can't stop, to the ends of the earth" embodies boundless ambition. This focus on uninhibited expression aligns perfectly with the EP's title "I Am Me," reinforcing the album's central message of authenticity.

The metaphor of fireworks and siesta

The juxtaposition of "siesta" (meaning nap in Spanish) with explosive "boom boom fireworks" creates a fascinating conceptual tension throughout the song. This seemingly contradictory pairing actually serves as a clever metaphor for renewal and transformation.

The repetition of "Siesta, a brief nap is over, I'm burning up" suggests that periods of rest and reflection (the siesta) prepare one for energetic rebirth (the fireworks). According to official descriptions, the title "describes the way the long wait will make Weki Meki rise higher, just like a nap can give you the energy you need to complete your day."

Additionally, the fireworks imagery—appearing both lyrically and in the music video's finale—symbolizes celebration, brilliance, and the spectacular results of patient waiting. The lyric "cherish this moment's fireworks" speaks to appreciating fleeting moments of beauty and achievement after periods of struggle.

Ultimately, through these interconnected themes, "Siesta" delivers a message about the cycle of rest and renewal—perfectly capturing Weki Meki's artistic rebirth during this pivotal era in their career.

Production and creative team behind Siesta

Behind every successful K-pop release stands a talented team of professionals whose collective expertise shapes the final product. For Weki Meki's "Siesta" from the iamme era, this collaborative effort brought together experienced creators from various musical backgrounds.

Key producers and lyricists

The songwriting team for "Siesta" featured a blend of Korean and international talent. Credits for the track include Lee Na Yoon (from Jam Factory), Jeong Joo Yeon, Im Ga In (also from Jam Factory), Sophiya (소피야), Anna Timgren, Alawn, and Musikality. This diverse group of writers created the song's empowering narrative about self-discovery and renewal.

On the composition side, Anna Timgren, Alawn (also known as Harold Philippon), and Musikality crafted the tropical house-influenced instrumental that defined "Siesta." Their previous work across various K-pop projects brought valuable experience to Weki Meki's sound evolution.

Sophiya took on multiple roles beyond songwriting, serving as both vocal director and providing background vocals for the track. This multi-faceted contribution helped ensure vocal performances aligned perfectly with the song's emotional journey.

Meanwhile, the members themselves contributed significantly to bringing "Siesta" to life. The song showcases vocals from all eight members: Choi Yoojung, Kim Doyeon, Rina, Lucy, Lua, Sei, Elly, and Ji Suyeon. Their distinct vocal colors create the dynamic performance that makes "Siesta" distinctive within Weki Meki's discography.

Notable arrangement and mixing choices

The arrangement of "Siesta," handled primarily by Alawn, features several technical choices that define the song's sound. The production creates dramatic contrast between the more subdued verses and explosive chorus sections, utilizing electronic brass elements that blend seamlessly with the tropical house foundation.

For the recording process, engineer Jeong Mo Yun captured the members' performances at Vibe Music Studio 606, with assistant engineers Lee Yuna and Lee Kang Hyun providing additional support. This professional recording environment ensured high-quality vocal captures despite the track's complex production.

Mixing was completed at Alawn Music Studios under Alawn's direction, ensuring cohesion between his arrangement vision and the final mix. Yet, some reviewers noted concerns about this aspect of production, with one critic pointing out that the song sounds "noisy" due to "over zealous mastering" that resulted in waveforms "smashing 100% all the way through" in the music video.

The same reviewer suggested the mixing lacked sufficient space "for each of the parts to breathe," indicating potential issues with the balance between vocal and instrumental elements. Nonetheless, mastering engineer Kwon Nam Woo completed the final audio polishing at 821 Sound Mastering.

Digital audio editing by Woo Min Jeong from Ingrid Studio added the finishing technical touches to the production, ensuring seamless transitions between sections and polishing the overall sound.

Reception and fan response to Siesta

The commercial and cultural impact of "Siesta" proved to be a significant chapter in Weki Meki's evolving story, as fans worldwide embraced the group's more mature musical direction during the iamme era.

Chart performance and streaming

Upon release, "Siesta" quickly gained traction across multiple platforms. Most impressively, the music video reached 10 million views within just 8 days of its release, demonstrating strong initial engagement from both established fans and new listeners. This milestone represented a satisfying achievement for a group that had been working to expand their audience since debut.

Beyond YouTube success, the track made notable international inroads by entering the top album charts in 18 regions on iTunes, highlighting Weki Meki's growing global appeal. Domestically, the release propelled an increase in Chodong album sales, signaling that the group's artistic evolution resonated with their core Korean fanbase as well.

Interestingly, this commercial performance came after a lengthy hiatus, with "Siesta" arriving over a year after their previous comeback—"a lifetime in K-pop standards" according to some industry observers. The extended break appears to have built anticipation rather than diminishing interest in the group.

Fan interpretations and social media buzz

The emotional connection between Weki Meki and their fanbase (known as Ki-Lings) became particularly evident during live performances of "Siesta." At the group's appearance on Mnet's M Countdown in 2022—their first performance of the song with all eight members—fans initiated loud fanchants that visibly moved several members to the point of tears.

This performance held special significance as it marked Doyeon's return after a wrist injury had prevented her participation in the original promotion cycle. For many fans, this comeback represented not just a musical achievement but an emotional milestone after a challenging period.

On social media, fan discussions frequently centered on the song's empowering themes and the group's artistic growth. However, conversations also reflected concerns about Fantagio Entertainment's management of the group, with many supporters expressing frustration that "they could be much bigger if it wasn't for fantagio". As one fan pointedly noted on social media: "It's unbelievable that one of the most talented groups in kpop is 1 year without comeback, in 4 years they still don't have a lightstick and full album".

In fact, this tension between appreciation for Weki Meki's artistic evolution and frustration with their management company became a defining narrative surrounding the "Siesta" era among dedicated fans.

Siesta’s place in Weki Meki’s discography

When examining Weki Meki's musical evolution, "Siesta" stands as a pivotal milestone that marks both their artistic growth and a strategic repositioning within the competitive K-pop landscape. This title track from the iamme EP showcases the group's willingness to explore new sonic territories while maintaining their distinctive identity.

Comparison with earlier title tracks

"Siesta" represents a marked departure from Weki Meki's previous signature sound. Their earlier discography—including hits like "Picky Picky," "Dazzle Dazzle," and "Cool"—primarily featured bright teen-crush concepts characterized by high-energy, youthful productions. In contrast, "Siesta" embraces a more sophisticated musical approach through its tropical house elements and nuanced production techniques.

The song's structure likewise demonstrates evolution. Whereas earlier tracks often relied on immediate hooks and straightforward arrangements, "Siesta" employs a more dynamic build—starting with restrained verses before exploding into an expansive chorus. This structural maturity shows Weki Meki moving beyond formulaic pop compositions toward more complex musical storytelling.

Lyrically, the transition is equally noticeable. Prior releases typically centered on themes of youthful confidence and playful romance. "Siesta," conversely, delves into deeper territory—exploring personal growth, resilience, and authentic self-expression. This thematic shift aligns perfectly with the EP's title I Am Me., suggesting a group increasingly confident in their artistic voice.

How it reflects the group's growth

Beyond just musical evolution, "Siesta" captures Weki Meki at a crucial juncture in their career development. Released during their fourth year as a group, the song arrived at that critical mid-career point when many K-pop acts either solidify their identity or risk fading from relevance.

Firstly, the production quality evidences their growing industry stature. Collaborating with established producers like Alawn and Anna Timgren demonstrates Fantagio's investment in elevating Weki Meki's musical output. Likewise, the increased member involvement in creative decisions—particularly Doyeon's participation in concept planning—reflects their growth as artists with defined visions.

Undeniably, "Siesta" captures a group increasingly comfortable with musical experimentation. The confident blending of diverse influences—from tropical house to electronic brass elements—shows artists willing to push beyond safe formulas that defined their earlier work. This artistic courage positions "Siesta" as not merely another title track but a declaration of Weki Meki's evolving musical identity.