[ARTICLE] 'Dirty Vibe' Music Video Appearance Is Strategic Move For 2NE1's CL Prior To Her U.S. Debut
Skrillex's "Dirty Vibe" music video, featuring Diplo, G-Dragon of Big Bang and CL of 2NE1, was, for many fans, one of the most anticipated music videos this year. When speculations began in the summer that the video was in development, excited netizens and stateside industry professionals took notice. Many of them, in turn, voiced a plethora of opinions once the video debuted. In fact, I was initially turned off at first sight. After watching it a couple times, however, it is arguably the most strategic move for preparing U.S. listeners for CL's debut.
First, it is not a K-pop video. The biggest shock for K-pop fans watching the video is that it is not a traditional K-pop video! There was not an evident concept. There was no ensemble dance moment. Most impressively? There was minimal emphasis on the faces of G-Dragon and CL. The closeups that we're used to seeing in K-pop videos were missing. Perhaps to help usher in the understanding that they are not "just" Korean artists?
Next, CL is the focus of the video. Sure, G-Dragon opens and closes the track, but the way the video is filmed makes CL the star. With the exception of her placing a hand on top of someone's head, every moment that CL is heard, she is seen alone. Her visual elements are bright, over-the-top and uniquely her. With these type of visual elements, she is bound to be searched for on Google! This is a positive introduction for potential U.S. fans to want to know more about what she will bring to the music scene.
Most importantly, Skrillex created a track that allowed CL to show her English rapping capacity. She does not reference many Korean words in her verses and packs a good punch with her delivery. Although this is not her first collaboration with an American producer, this track puts her front-and-center, complimented by her labelmate G-Dragon.
Controversy is a maintsay with the hip-hop world, especially for females in the American rap scene. Thus far, YG Entertainment and CL's U.S. representation are making smart steps towards a successful rollout.
SOURCE: KPOPSTARZ
