The truth about Rami's retirement from BABYMONSTER after the MAMA awards controversy
The past few days have witnessed a state of uproar in the global K-Pop community, specifically among the fans of the group BABYMONSTER , following their recent appearance at the 2024 MAMA Awards. Member Rami topped search engines and social media platforms, not because of her usual vocal performance, but because of strong suspicions about her marginalization, which sparked widespread rumors about the possibility of her retirement or leaving the group, which brought back to mind previous worrying scenarios within YG Entertainment.
Details of the sound problem in the song DRIP
The controversy began during the group's performance of their hit song "DRIP" at MAMA. The audience, known for their keen observation skills, noticed the inexplicable absence of Rami's vocals in the backing track. Her parts were replaced with other vocal elements or the voices of other members, a departure from the norm for a member who occupies the position of "lead vocalist" and is considered the vocal backbone of the group. This technical change was not seen as a mere oversight, but rather as a deliberate act of marginalization, especially given Rami's absence from some of the promotional footage accompanying the event.
Baby Monster: The Jewel of the Fifth Generation and the Responsibility of Succession
To understand the depth of public anxiety, the event must be placed in its historical and strategic context. BABYMONSTER is YG Entertainment's biggest project at the moment, having been introduced to the world as the successor to the legendary BLACKPINK. With the fierce competition in the fifth generation of K-pop, the agency cannot afford any internal upheavals that could affect the group's stability. Rami, with her unique, soul-charming voice, is a crucial element of the group's identity, and any disruption to her position threatens the artistic balance of the entire group.
Ghost of the Past: The "Ahion" Complex and the Agency's History
Fueling these rumors is the group's recent history and the agency's long history of member departures. Fans still vividly remember the period of mystery surrounding Ahyeon's absence from the initial debut due to health reasons, creating a state of shock and anxiety among fans regarding any sudden absence. Furthermore, YG Entertainment has a history of similar situations with previous groups like 2NE1 and TREASURE, where members' departures often began with a gradual reduction in their roles in live performances and song distribution, making the fans' concerns about Rami understandable and logical.
The importance of the MAMA awards ceremony and its international impact
The significance of the venue where this incident occurred cannot be ignored. The MAMA (Mnet Asian Music Awards) is the biggest music event in Asia and a major gateway to the global and American markets. A misstep or controversy at an event watched by millions worldwide could have negative repercussions for the group's brand. The ceremony was expected to be the culmination of their success, but instead became a platform for speculation about the group's future.
In conclusion, the situation remains unclear given the agency's official silence. While fans continue to rally support for Rami, demanding transparency, all eyes are on YG's next move. Is it simply an unsuccessful artistic change, or the beginning of the end for one of the most prominent voices of the new generation?
