FIFTY FIFTY on their musical inspirations, the meaning of love, and working on their viral hit 'Cupid'

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FIFTY FIFTY on their musical inspirations, the meaning of love, and working on their viral hit 'Cupid'

FIFTY FIFTY are one of K-pop's newest acts but that hasn't stopped them from taking over. 

Transporting you to a world of whimsy and dreams with their soothing vocals and wispy, elegant melodies, the K-pop group has captured the hearts of millions just four months after their debut. 

FIFTY FIFTY—comprises AranKeenaSaena, and Sio—introduced themselves to the world with their uplifting and springtime-esque pop track 'Higher' off of their debut EP, THE FIFTY. Within a short time, especially during a monumental year for new-gen K-pop girl group debuts, the quartet broke through and proved they're worth watching out for. 

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"I believe our vocal colours are our biggest strength of the group. Each member has a unique vocal tone, and we're able to create a great synergy and unique colour as a team. I think that's what people love about FIFTY FIFTY," says Saena in a press conference.

FIFTY FIFTY reveal 'nerd girls' concept photos for 'The Beginning' | allkpop

Soonthenafter, FIFTY FIFTY returned with their Billboard-charting track, 'Cupid' where they yearn for love before realising it's all "dumb" anyway.

"Honestly, I don't think love has a direct impact on solving a difficult situation. However, without love, nothing can be solved. I believe we always find a way and answer to something because love exists everywhere, even if it takes the smallest part," explained Aran. 

The single shines a light on the group's impressive vocal range, dreamlike sound, and graceful cadence, building on what everyone loved from their debut in tenfolds. 

"I was excited and nervous at the same time before hearing our comeback track because so many people loved our debut track 'Higher'. But as soon as I heard 'Cupid', my nervousness just went away. Rather than feeling anxious and worried with pressure, we just focused on how we can perfect our performance with this track while preparing for this comeback," shared Sio. 

"When I was working on the lyrics of 'Cupid', I made a lot of edits in terms of concept and topic. For the best result, our company staff has helped me a lot and provided feedback to every little detail that even I had missed. That whole process was very meaningful and exciting," said Keena, who co-wrote the track.

FIFTY FIFTY reveal 'nerd girls' concept photos for 'The Beginning' | allkpop

As a way to thank their international fans for their support, 'Cupid' was released in both English and Korean—a decision that the members found challenging but also worthwhile.

"I think recording the Korean version was pretty smooth, but English version was definitely challenging for me. While recording English version, I had to focus on both English accents and delivery of the meaning of the song. Finding the right balance between the two was a bit difficult for me," said Sio.

Inspired by the many K-pop girl group icons that came before them, namely Girls' Generation and 2NE1, FIFTY FIFTY are aiming for the stars, hoping to have their music impact and resonate with people across the world. 

"I would say Girls' Generation is my musical inspiration. We all grew up listening to their music, and they're such a respectable and iconic girl group," said Keena.

"One day, my mom played the music video of 'I Love You' by 2NE1, and I remember it was my first exposure to K-Pop. I think that's why I listened to 2NE1's music a lot growing up and was inspired by them," added Sio.

FIFTY FIFTY continues 'The Beginning' comeback countdown with 'black cupid'  concept photo | allkpop

As they move forward, FIFTY FIFTY are looking to try an array of concepts and genres but promises that there's always one thing you can count on them for: sincerity. 

"Since we're very sincere to music, we hope to approach all listeners and our international fans with our sincere hearts. We're aiming to show various genres that are different from 'Cupid's genre and to present various charms through each member's uniqueness. I hope you look forward to us more," said Saena.


Listen to FIFTY FIFTY here.