Growing up can be challenging — especially the journey of one’s self discovery. HANA, a Japanese girl group, is enduring just that; and embracing it through their music.
Consisting of 7 members — YURI, MAHINA, CHIKA, JISOO, NAOKO, MOMOKA and KOHARU — the group made their musical debut with the release of the track “ROSE,” quickly capturing the hearts of many as the track earned over 100 million streams and counting. Combining influences of R&B, pop and indie-rock gives the group a stand-out energy and makes them one to watch.
With the release of their newest single, “BAD GIRL,” HANA explores the many ups and downs of what it is like to be a teenager and young adult — giving their music an added layer of authenticity. Blending rock-like instrumentals with the girls’ soft vocals creates the perfect mix to this bittersweet love song.
“BAD GIRL” was first heard in Apple’s “Group Selfie on iPhone 17 Pro” campaign commercial in Japan, generating lots of buzz for the song’s official release.
The track opens with a soft guitar and drum instrumental, MAHINA and YURI’s voices joining in to set the scene of the story. Detailing a bittersweet connection between a girl and a crush, the track’s beginning takes us through the dreadful feeling of going unnoticed. The girl in the story tries her best to get her love interest to notice her through dressing up, changing her personality and her makeup. It is relatable and authentic; listeners are able to share the awkward experience with the group.
Seamlessly transitioning into the chorus, the instrumentals shift into a heavier rock anthem, perfectly capturing the emotion of the lyrics. As the chorus hits, KOHARU and NAOKO’s vocals layer beautifully with one another as they pour their hearts out into the track. Admitting that she is attempting to change herself to be noticed, the heavier instrumental compliments the emotional whirlwind — the girl feeling like she is not able to show her true personality in front of the subject she is trying to impress. She feels as though she has to become a “bad girl” in order to get noticed, instead of being her usual “good girl” self.
This track is everything genuine and true-to-self, making HANA the rising stars they have shown to be. With punchy rock instrumentals, honest storytelling and captivating vocals, the Japanese septet is making their mark — giving many listeners an icon they can relate to.
Following the release of “BAD GIRL” and their debut album HANA, the group will head overseas for their first ever appearance in the United States with the Zipangu Festival on May 16. This marks a tremendous milestone for the group, paving the way for many more.
Keep up with HANA:
Website / Apple Music / Spotify / Instagram / YouTube / X / TikTok
