Sunmi Makes a Power Move with “Lalalay”

It feels like forever since Sunmi began hyping her new single “Lalalay,” but as of August 27, the wait is finally over. With a track the singer has made known is dear to her heart, “Lalalay” brings Sunmi’s usual flair for the dramatic, this time with plenty of added spunk.

“Lalalay” is an ode to not caring about the opinions of others, something Sunmi’s fans champion their idol for. During a showcase for the release, the singer admitted the song was influenced by her memories of her tour stop in Mexico, citing that the carefree enjoyment of her Mexican fans inspired her. The term “lalalay” can be roughly understood to mean to live freely, ergo the song’s title. Coincidentally enough, the Korean taepyeongso instrument is also referred to as “lalalay” in folk music, hence the traditional horn’s prominent featuring in the chorus of the song. The chorus is undoubtedly the most striking part of the track; between its somewhat dangerous tone and chanting lyrics, it’s unbelievably easy to get stuck in your head.

For a song like “Lalalay,” the video is just as colorful and extravagant as one would expect. Perhaps most notably, Sunmi shockingly dyed her signature black tresses a soft platinum blonde. Add to that, big, bold 80’s fashion and enough makeup to make any beauty guru swoon, and you have an instant hit for the late summer. The video and concept for the song also has a running motif of the butterfly, most likely symbolizing Sunmi’s metamorphosis as both an artist and an individual. Furthermore, the video shows Sunmi taking powerful stances in front of various groups of backup dancers, asserting her dominance as a confident and powerful woman. Simply put, Sunmi is not one to be reckoned with, but we all already knew that. Now we just have the appropriate background music.

Check out the music video for “Lalalay” below.