SM Entertainment Faces Backlash Over aespa’s Creative Freedom
SM Entertainment is currently under fire following an incident involving aespa member Giselle, who disclosed that the agency rejected a self-written song by the group. This revelation has sparked outrage among MYs, the fandom of aespa, who noted similar restrictions faced by veteran groups such as Girls’ Generation (SNSD) and EXO.
Giselle’s Revelation at the DearMyMuse Event
During a fan signing event on December 2, 2024, fans had the opportunity to engage with Giselle about the progress of a collaborative song that she and her fellow members—Karina, Winter, and NingNing—had worked on. Initial excitement filled the atmosphere when Giselle confirmed the song’s completion. However, this enthusiasm quickly faded when she revealed that SM Entertainment decided to reject the track. She openly encouraged the fan to share this news, highlighting the group’s disappointment.
241202 dearmymuse fansign #GISELLE op asked Giselle about the progress of the song the aespa members worked on together. Giselle said they actually have finished it but SM rejected it. op asked Giselle’s permission to share this and she said: go ahead and spread it far and wide! pic.twitter.com/YZteQwebXo
— 13 ✿ (@uchgaeri) December 2, 2024
Fan Reactions and Industry Trends
Following Giselle’s announcement, MYs expressed their frustration on social media, condemning SM Entertainment for stifling the group’s potential. Fans argued that allowing aespa to showcase their songwriting abilities would enhance their global appeal, particularly as they are experiencing tremendous success following the release of their special digital single “SYNK: PARALLEL LINE”in October 2024. The single featured members’ self-composed tracks that achieved remarkable chart success, further fueling fans’ desire for more original content from the group.
Historical Context of SM Entertainment’s Policies
This incident with aespa is not isolated. Historically, SM Entertainment has faced criticism for curtailing the creative freedoms of its artists. Members of Girls’ Generation have noted that the agency often rejects songs that do not align with their specific artistic visions. Tiffany, a former member, highlighted this dynamic, explaining that SM has distinct preferences for lyrical content that might not resonate with the individual styles of artists.
What happened to #aespa self-composed song today reminds me of what #seohyun #Tiffany said about why there aren’t many songs by members. SM always sucks when it comes 2 their female idols they never want them 2 have creative freedom in anything. #giselle
— 🪻. (@Lavendergu38042) December 2, 2024
EXO’s Similar Experiences
EXO, another prominent group under the same label, has also voiced their discontent regarding SM Entertainment’s policies on artist songwriting. Members have recounted experiences where the label preferred different songs over their original works, leading to tensions about creative control within the group.
Continuing the Fight for Artistic Freedom
As MYs rally around Giselle’s comments, there is a renewed hope for a shift in SM Entertainment’s approach to artist creativity. Fans are currently mobilizing efforts to amplify this issue, calling for the agency to reconsider its stance on aespa’s rejected song. The outcome of this situation could significantly impact not just aespa, but also the larger conversation around artist autonomy within the K-pop industry.
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