After her solo single “TWIT” last year, a feature on “Physical” with Dua Lipa, and supporting her other MAMAMOO members on their own solo work, it’s finally Hwasa’s time to shine again. “Maria” is Hwasa’s baptismal name and now the name of her album and solo single. With this latest release, she shows a side of herself to fans that delves deeper into her artistic and personal journey. Her album has already topped charts worldwide, so the potential for world domination is set.

“Maria” is a saucy Latin-inspired pop track that delves into Hwasa’s experience being bullied and harassed by naysayers as she defies Korean beauty standards and expectations. It’s an ode to herself, deflecting the negativity and remembering that her true self is beautiful despite the hatred she’s dealt with. Coupled with a music video that provides a visual representation of dealing with the pain that can come from being in the public eye, we get to see both the good and bad side of her story. From the beginning of the music video, we’re presented with countless metaphors that further personify Hwasa’s experiences. From resting in a bathtub, lying in a bed while surrounded by candlelights, and lighters surrounding her in a dark room, each scene gives us a look into Hwasa’s truth. With her background dancers, she quickly turns up the heat and guides the viewer into her own world. In typical Hwasa fashion, every scene is stolen by her charm and earth-shattering confidence. With a dance break, countless glamour shots, and vibrant synergy, Hwasa perfectly secures her spot as a complex female soloist who still loves and relies on her group members, who join her at the end of the video. 

The rest of the album is just as poignant and gripping as the title track. With the songs “Intro: Nobody Else,” “Kidding,” “WHY,” “I’m bad too” featuring DPR Live, and “LMM,” Hwasa’s journey to confidence and self-love is laid out on a platter for us with fiery vocals and addictive beats. Dipping into different R&B and pop sounds with a hint of rapping, Hwasa’s solo return has shown us that the MAMAMOO maknae has her own sound and vision. Despite everything she’s gone through, Hwasa has turned her negatives into positives. By being candid about her struggles and mental health journey amidst a demanding career, Hwasa has the potential to truly make a difference through her unapologetic art.