All My Girls (EVERGLOW) "Slay"
In the dynamic world of K-pop, the term "slay" has transcended its original definitions to symbolize a powerful statement of excellence and empowerment, particularly in performances and music production. EVERGLOW, a prominent girl group under Yuehua Entertainment, embodies this sentiment through their single 'Slay', which is a testament to their journey of breaking rules and setting new benchmarks. This track, with its vibrant mix of catchy rhythms and impactful lyrics, not only exemplifies the 'slay meaning' but also reinforces EVERGLOW's position as icons of the 'crazy sexy cool' ethos that defines their music and style. The song, adorned with elements like chandeliers, diamonds, and pearls, encapsulates the group's luxurious aesthetic while navigating themes of confidence and self-expression.
"All My Girls"
Artist
EVERGLOW
B-side
"Oh Ma Ma God"
"Make Me Feel"
Released
August 18, 2023
Format(s)
CD, download, streaming
Recorded
2023
Genre
Dance, pop, contemporary R&B, synth pop
Length
9:49
Label(s)
Yue Hua Entertainment
Distributor(s)
Genie Music
Stone Music Entertainment
Writer(s)
Ji Soo Jung (MUMW), Andy Love, Lauren Dyson, 72 (track 1)
E:U, SOHLHEE, YOUNG (MUMW), Newny (MUMW), 72 (track 2)
72 (track 3)
Composer(s)
David Anthony, Andy Love, Lauren Dyson, 72 (track 1)
Malin Johansson, Maria Marcus, Tobias Naslund (track 2)
Melanie Fontana, Michel "Lindgren" Schulz, Casey Smith, 72 (track 3)
Arranger(s)
BANGOK (track 1)
Tobias Naslund (track 2)
Lindgren (track 3)
Producer(s)
BANGOK (track 1)
Tobias Naslund (track 2)
Lindgren (track 3)
Track list
"Slay" - 3:40
"Oh Ma Ma God" - 3:08
"Make Me Feel" - 3:01
EVERGLOW: Formation and Early Success
Pre-debut Journey
Before their official debut, members of EVERGLOW had diverse experiences that shaped their early careers. Sihyeon, after competing in Mnet's Produce 101 and Produce 48, joined Yuehua Entertainment. Her participation highlighted her determination to improve and succeed in the competitive K-pop industry. Similarly, Aisha started her journey at JYP Entertainment, gaining significant training experience before joining Yuehua. Onda also made her mark by competing in Idol School, though she did not finish the program. These pre-debut experiences were crucial in building the foundation for their future in EVERGLOW.
Early Releases
EVERGLOW made a striking entry into the music scene on March 18, 2019, with their debut single album 'Arrival of EVERGLOW', featuring the hit track "Bon Bon Chocolat". The song was co-written by American singer-songwriter Melanie Fontana and quickly made its mark, debuting at number five on Billboard's World Digital Song Sales chart. Following this, their second single album 'HUSH' was released on August 19, 2019, with "Adios" as the lead track, further solidifying their presence in the K-pop industry. This early success was a testament to their unique sound and dynamic performances, setting the stage for their subsequent achievements.
Concept and Theme of 'All My Girls'
Visual Aesthetic
The visual elements of EVERGLOW's "All My Girls" are meticulously crafted to resonate with the album's overarching themes. The "Visual Clip" for the album features distinct and vibrant imagery that aligns with the group's message of empowerment and self-expression. This visual representation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also deepens the connection with the audience by visually communicating the themes of liberation and confidence.
Message and Motivation
"ALL MY GIRLS" by EVERGLOW sends a potent message to all girls feeling confined by societal norms, urging them to rediscover and assert their individuality. The album serves as a call to action for listeners to break free from societal expectations and to embrace self-confidence and authenticity. The group members themselves reflect this message, aiming to empower their fans, known as FOREVERs, through their lyrics and music. They express a sincere desire to inspire and uplift their audience, encouraging self-confidence and self-love.
Detailed Lyrics Review of 'Slay'
Chorus Breakdown
The chorus of "Slay" by EVERGLOW is a vibrant and empowering component of the song, characterized by its repetitive yet powerful phrases that emphasize triumph and camaraderie among the group members. Phrases like "All my girls slay" and "We shining like diamond and pearls" not only enhance the song's theme of empowerment but also resonate with listeners by portraying a sense of collective strength and exceptional brilliance. The repetition of "Slay, slay, crazy, sexy, cool" underscores the group's attitude and determination to break norms and excel in their endeavors.
Verse Significance
The verses of "Slay" delve deeper into themes of overcoming adversity and asserting individuality. Lines such as "Get out your seats now 저 어둠, so damn dangerous" set a tone of confronting and rising above challenges, which is a recurring theme in the song. The lyrics "Me and my girls We about to blow your mind" further highlight the unity and strength among the members, projecting an image of confidence and readiness to take on the world. This section of the song not only motivates listeners but also aligns with EVERGLOW's overarching message of empowerment and self-confidence.
Musical Composition
Instrumentation
The musical foundation of "Slay" by EVERGLOW is meticulously crafted by BANGKOK, who programmed the drums, bass, and synthesizers, adding a robust and dynamic layer to the track. The keyboard performances, also handled by BANGKOK, further enrich the song's texture, providing a harmonious blend that supports the vocal arrangements.
Song Structure
The track "Slay" showcases a complex structure, with David Anthony, Andy Love, Lauren Dyson, and 72 contributing to its composition. The lyrics, penned by 지수정 (MUMW), Andy Love, Lauren Dyson, and 72, weave through the music, creating a narrative of empowerment and resilience. The vocal arrangements by Andy Love enhance the overall impact of the track, supported by background vocals from Sophia Pae and Lauren Dyson, which add depth and a layer of complexity to the auditory experience. The entire process, from recording to mastering, was meticulously overseen by professionals like Jang Woo Young and 권남우, ensuring high-quality output that resonates with the audience.
'Slay' Music Video Analysis
Symbolism
The 'Slay' music video by EVERGLOW is replete with symbolism that underscores themes of empowerment and confidence. Viewers have noted the powerful and confident attitudes displayed by the members, which align with the group's message of overcoming darkness and danger. The lyrics "Get out your seats now 저 어둠, so damn dangerous" and "Me and my girls, We about to blow your mind" exemplify this theme, suggesting a narrative of conquering and victory that resonates throughout the video.
Art Direction
The art direction of the 'Slay' music video significantly contributes to its overall impact. The stunning visuals and backgrounds are meticulously crafted, with each member's outfit tailored to enhance their individual presence. Fans and critics alike have praised the focus on individual member scenes, which not only highlight each member's unique style but also the cohesive group dynamic. The emphasis on rapping and vocal prowess within the video has been particularly noted, pointing to a possible new direction for the group's musical expression.
Reception Among Fans and Critics
Online Reviews
The reception of EVERGLOW's "Slay" among fans and critics has been mixed. Some fans expressed disappointment, noting that the song felt outdated and lacked the innovation expected after a long hiatus. Critics echoed similar sentiments, describing "Slay" as a track that fails to break new ground, relying heavily on the tried-and-tested girl crush formula without adding a fresh twist. Despite these critiques, there were aspects of the track that received praise, such as its engaging pre-chorus and the vocal performances during the bridge, which were highlighted as elements that stood out.
Audience Engagement
Audience reactions to "Slay" showcased a range of emotions, from nostalgia for the girl crush style to frustration over the perceived stagnation in musical creativity. On social media platforms, fans debated the song's merits, with some appreciating the familiar sound as a welcome return, while others criticized it for not meeting the high expectations set by previous hits. The line distribution within the song also sparked discussions, with some listeners pleased by the fairness, while others pointed out biases towards certain members.
Album's Commercial Success
Sales Figures
The commercial success of EVERGLOW's albums is evident in their impressive sales records. Since their debut, the group has consistently achieved high sales, with a total of 307,907 copies sold across various albums. The debut album "ARRIVAL OF EVERGLOW" sold 27,537 copies, while subsequent releases such as "HUSH" and "reminiscence" sold 28,150 and 31,188 copies respectively. The album "-77.82X-78.29" saw a significant increase with 48,131 copies sold, and "Last Melody" further surpassed this with 52,934 copies sold. The latest album "ALL MY GIRLS" continued this strong performance with 44,144 copies sold in 2023. Even "ZOMBIE," released in 2024, managed to sell 29,808 copies.
Social Media Metrics
The impact of EVERGLOW's albums extends beyond physical sales, reflecting significant engagement on social media platforms. This engagement is driven by strategic promotions such as the release of multiple music video teasers and a variety of collectibles included with album purchases, which are designed to enhance fan interaction and album sales. The sales from these albums are meticulously tracked and contribute to their positions on major music charts like Hanteo Chart, CIRCLE Chart, and Music Bank Chart, ensuring that every purchase is counted towards their first-week sales volume.
Insights from the Production Team
Interviews
During the creation of "All My Girls," E:U took a significant role in conceptualizing the overall framework for the lyrics, contributing to the songwriting process alongside other lyricists and producers. Mia expressed her pride in the album, emphasizing that it carries a strong message to empower girls who feel lost or constrained by societal norms. She also highlighted her personal commitment to showcasing the unique charm of EVERGLOW during this promotion cycle.
Behind The Scenes Footage
The production of "SLAY" involved meticulous choreography and expression training. AISHA noted the challenge of mastering the choreography within a day due to its distinct style, while YIREN emphasized the importance of perfecting facial expressions alongside the dance moves. This rigorous preparation ensured that every performance element aligned with the empowering themes of the track, contributing to the song's dynamic impact.
The Future of EVERGLOW
Tour Plans
EVERGLOW has announced their first world tour, "2023 EVERGLOW US Tour [All My Girls]," marking a significant milestone in their international presence. The tour is set to commence on November 1, 2023, in New Haven at the College Street Music Hall, and will include performances in major cities across the United States such as New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles, concluding on November 22, 2023, at The Wiltern in Los Angeles. Additionally, the tour will extend into Europe and Japan, with dates scheduled in cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Tokyo, concluding in Osaka at Zepp Namba on May 1, 2024.
Upcoming Release Rumors
Anticipation is building for EVERGLOW's fifth single, "ZOMBIE," set for release on June 10. The group has teased fans with lyric posters that hint at the single's themes of love and hate, intensified by a collaboration with renowned producers Stereotypes, known for their work with global pop artists. This upcoming release is expected to showcase EVERGLOW's evolving musical identity and reinforce their position in the global music scene.
EVERGLOW (에버글로우) - SLAY MV
EVERGLOW - SLAY (Romanized) Lyrics
[Intro: Yiren, Mia]
Slay
Yeah, yeah, okay
[Verse 1: Mia, Aisha, (Yiren), E:U, Onda]
Get out your seats now
Jeo eodum, so damn dangerous
Musimhage gireul bikyeo, alright
Yeogi uju sogui steady
Gitbal deureo, ready
(Ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh-ooh)
Makin' them, makin' them, makin' them wow
(Ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh-ooh)
Comin' in, comin' in, comin' in loud
Kkeuteomneun dark night
Chacha alge doel damage
Baby, I'm a savage
[Pre-Chorus: Sihyeon, Mia]
Me and my girls
We about to blow your mind (Every time)
Yeah, yeah, jeongbokae, here
Yeah, yeah, sijakae, deal
Further, mijiui segye
Balkyеojulge chandelier
[Chorus: Sihyeon, Aisha, Onda]
Na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na-na-na
Na-na-na-na-na, na-na-na
All my girls slay
Na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na-na-na
Eyеs on us, nobody does it better
Yeah, light it up, all my girls
Feeling on top of the world
The way we move it side to side
We shining like diamond and pearls
Na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na-na-na
We all 'bout to show you how all my girls slay
[Post-Chorus: Yiren, Mia, Both]
Slay! Slay! Crazy, sexy, cool
Slay! Slay! We born to break the rules
Slay! Slay! We got that attitude
Slay! Slay! Every day
[Verse 2: E:U, Aisha]
Nan gotongui kkeuteseo saeropge sarana
Igeosi namanui key (Key)
Jeo pamyeorui kkeuteseo tteugeopge saraga
Igeosi namanui free (Free)
You know that I'm the crown
So don't you waste my time
I'm keeping it real, I'm keeping it real
I'm keeping it killer tonight
[Pre-Chorus: Onda, Aisha, Sihyeon]
Me and my girls
We about to blow your mind (Every time)
Yeah, yeah, jeongbokae, here
Yeah, yeah, sijakae, deal
Further, mijiui segye
Balkyeojulge chandelier (Chandelier)
[Chorus: Yiren, Mia, E:U]
Na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na-na-na
Na-na-na-na-na, na-na-na
All my girls slay
Na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na-na-na
Eyes on us, nobody does it better
Yeah, light it up, all my girls
Feeling on top of the world
The way we move it side to side
We shining like diamond and pearls
Na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na-na-na
We all 'bout to show you how all my girls slay
[Post-Chorus: Aisha, E:U]
Slay! Slay! Crazy, sexy, cool
Slay! Slay! We born to break the rules
Slay! Slay! We got that attitude
Slay! Slay!
[Bridge: Sihyeon, Mia]
Find me, jiteun angae sok
Nan ara igeosi got good thing
Nan wonhae, time for the chance, namanui pace
Deo nopi ollagago sipeo meolli naldorok
Gotta go, I'm doing what I want
I'm never gonna stop, naega kkumkkun segye
Slay (Yeah), slay (Yeah), slay (Yeah)
We came here to slay
[Chorus: Aisha, E:U, Mia]
Na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na-na-na
Na-na-na-na-na, na-na-na
All my girls slay
Na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na-na-na
Eyes on us, nobody does it better
Yeah, light it up, all my girls
Feeling on top of the world
The way we move it side to side
We shining like diamond and pearls
Na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na-na-na
We all 'bout to show you how all my girls slay
[Post-Chorus: Onda, Sihyeon, Both]
Slay! Slay! Crazy, sexy, cool
Slay! Slay! We born to break the rules
Slay! Slay! We got that attitude
Slay! Slay! Every day
Conclusion
In the exploration of EVERGLOW's single 'Slay', the song emerges as a significant marker of the group's musical journey and reflects broader trends in K-pop. 'Slay', with its vibrant rhythms and empowering lyrics, stands as a testament to EVERGLOW's unique brand of confidence and charisma. By dissecting the song's lyrical themes, production intricacies, and the elaborate visuals of the accompanying music video, the article delves deep into what makes 'Slay' resonate with fans worldwide and underscores EVERGLOW's commitment to pushing the boundaries of the girl crush concept.
The discussions around 'Slay' and its place within EVERGLOW's discography and the larger K-pop landscape illuminate the ever-evolving nature of music and performance in this genre. As EVERGLOW continues to explore and define their musical identity, the significance of 'Slay' in their career trajectory is undeniable. With a forward-looking approach, the article suggests that 'Slay' is not just a momentary peak but a stepping stone for EVERGLOW as they navigate the future of K-pop, signaling potential avenues for further artistic exploration and affirming their place in the hearts of fans across the globe.
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