It’s been two years since we’ve had a release from the talented Chungha, and it’s certainly been a long time coming. Since her appearance on Produce 101 and promotions with project group I.O.I, Chungha has been a favorite among many for her all-rounder idol talents. She enjoyed a successful solo career after I.O.I ended, at least for the most part. As 2023 began, it was reported that she would be parting ways with her previous agency, MNH Entertainment, which halted all possible musical releases. Fans waited anxiously for her to return, and the good news finally came through in October, when she signed with record label MORE VISION. Though this new release is only a single, we’re glad to finally have her back on the K-Pop scene. 

The new single “EENIE MEENIE” also had a special surprise as it was announced the track would feature ATEEZ leader Hongjoong, building anticipation for the release of the track. In her time as an artist, Chungha has explored many different genres and done well with them, but this one is her first dive into a heavily hip-hop focused melody. Chungha’s vocals are probably her greatest strength, and it felt like there wasn’t a ton of emphasis on them with this single, but for the bridge before the chorus. The track features a pseudo-empty chorus, which I’ll admit I’m not a huge fan of. Chungha has such amazing vocal prowess that I would rather see her utilize to create an impactful chorus in the song, a la “Snapping.” Overall, “EENIE MEENIE” has a very different sound and feel from her previous title tracks, and the opinion on whether or not that’s a good thing, is pretty drastically split. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, I do enjoy seeing her venture into a different sound, and her voice is still absolutely stunning. Hongjoong’s rap verse also fits seamlessly into the melody, but maybe I’m more than a little biased. I would have liked to have him harmonizing on the final chorus as well, but I’m not picky. 

The music video itself is pretty simple, featuring different styles heavily influenced by street style. That’s another thing she hasn’t really delved into in previous releases, so it gives her a fresh look. She, of course also features dance heavily in her shots, since her dance prowess is another pivotal portion of her talent as an idol. I would have also liked to see Hongjoong dancing with her in the music video rather than having the two of them completely separate, but that said, her choreography is as eye-catching as ever.

Now that she’s officially released a single under a new label, we can’t wait to see what she has in store in the future! Check out the music video for “EENIE MEENIE” below.

Edited by Lacey Diluvio