Released in 2023, (G)I-DLE’s “Queencard” quickly became a hit, resonating with fans for its catchy melody and empowering lyrics. The song celebrates women and their strength, making it a standout in the K-pop scene.
Fast forward to 2024, when CUBE Entertainment’s latest boy group, NOWADAYS, made their debut at KCON in Germany. During their performance, they chose to cover “Queencard”, a song originally by their senior label mates, (G)I-DLE. However, as they performed, it became clear that the group had altered the original lyrics significantly. Notably, they replaced mentions of high-profile figures such as Kim Kardashian and Ariana Grande, along with several adjectives that contributed to the song’s original context.
Once a video of the performance was shared on TikTok, it did not take long for the backlash to commence. Many viewers expressed confusion and disappointment over the group’s decision to change the lyrics of a song that is fundamentally about celebrating women:
The alterations sparked discussions online, with fans and critics alike questioning the motives behind the changes and what it signifies about the group’s understanding of the original message. This incident highlights the ongoing conversation in the K-pop industry about artistic integrity and the respect due to original works, especially when covering songs that empower women.
Source: Krb
