On February 20, TRI.BE released their fourth single album Diamond. The title track “Diamond” keeps TRI.BE’s comforting optimism and pairs it with a subdued Afrobeat backing. All TRI.BE members contributed to the accompanying B-side “Run,” a joint effort between the group and song producers. Diamond came as a shiny new gift three days after the group celebrated their third anniversary. 

“Diamond” 

“Diamond” was written and composed by S.Tiger (Shinsadong Tiger), THE HUB’s Awrii, ELLY, BIGBRAD, and KorShortHair. The song uses a calmer Afrobeat sound compared to their previous releases. “Diamond” takes a reasonable and gentle approach to staying strong. It acknowledges that maintaining positivity is something learned over time. 

The lyrics highlight that struggles aren’t faced alone. To stay unfazed in spite of challenges isn’t always easy at the moment, but it can happen eventually. “I can’t be happy all the time / But I’ll eventually realize everyday / just let it go,” the lyrics say. The usage of the word “diamond” reflects both the gemstone’s incredible durability and shimmering quality.

The collective singing of  “Not every moment but everyday / I’ll become happier” is effective in conveying the uplifting message. The music video primarily features the members in a desert but it also shows a choreography scene over water. The theme may come from the lyric sung by Songsun, “you can change a rugged desert to a blue ocean, and even change time too.”* 

“Run” 

Not to be confused with TRI.BE’s “WOULD YOU RUN” from VENI VIDI VICI, “Run” is the Diamond B-side. It’s an upbeat track that pairs well with “Diamond.” The song was written and composed by all TRI.BE members—Songsun, Kelly, Hyunbin, Jia, Soeun, and Mire— THE HUB’s Frankie Day and Awrii, KorShortHair, and S. Tiger (Shinsadong Tiger). The members also choreographed the dance themselves, a talent they have shown with other performances. This collaborative involvement of the members with their team ends Diamond in a heartwarming way. 

Diamond was the last release featuring the work of S. Tiger, who passed away on February 23. As the group’s CEO, creator, and main producer, S. Tiger played an integral role in forming TRI.BE’s musical image in addition to various other accolades in the industry. May the industry recognize and honor his legacy for years to come. 

*Note: lyrics taken from English captions in the official music video.