Unpacking MINNIE'S 'HER': A Song and Music Video Review, by Karla Garcia

MINNIE, the main vocalist of the global pop group (G)I-DLE, made her solo debut on January 21 of this year, with the EP and self-titled track “HER”. This release has accumulated over 6 million streams on Spotify, with its film-esque music video having over 31 million views on YouTube.

MINNIE dramatically exhibits the different sides of ‘HER’ through three personas: lovely MINNIE, chic MINNIE and reality MINNIE. Set in an Australian estate, these characters are juxtaposed through their looks and attitudes. 

Lovely MINNIE is a flamboyant and carefree troublemaker who parades around the mansion wearing pink and purple dresses. She dances in the dining room, bedroom and garden, leaving a messy trace everywhere she goes. This persona is childish and full of herself, highlighting the celebrity complex of presenting confidence while being perceived as arrogant. 

Lovely MINNIE, portrayed by MINNIE. Retrieved from Weverse.

Chic MINNIE is a complete contrast. Her peculiar personality is revealed through red and black outfits, alongside smirks and aggravated body language. This character, while more mature, has a ‘dark’ side. Her disdain compels her to metaphorically and literally: “shoot you in your heart.” Chic MINNIE embodies the internal battles within oneself and perhaps the lack of autonomy within the music industry.

Chic MINNIE, portrayed by MINNIE. Retrieved from Weverse.

Lastly, Reality MINNIE is featured mostly outside of the house. With the least amount of screen time, she lives outside the lovely MINNIE and chic MINNIE rivalry. This ‘HER’ is independent, professional and responsible for upholding the estate. She dresses in white and is chauffeured in a vintage Mustang, revealing MINNIE's daily life as an artist. This persona expresses the ‘HER’ that copes with the ups and downs of life—especially that of a performer.

Reality MINNIE, portrayed by MINNIE. Retrieved from Weverse.

“HER” is addictive, groovy and dramatic. Upon the first listen, I was instantly hooked to its laid-back sound and ambient vocals. This pop anthem makes me feel like the protagonist of a thriller movie and gives me a boost of confidence each time I listen. 

Lyrically, “HER” exposes the dichotomy between the perceived and the presenting selves. The song opens with the words: “You think I'm acting like a movie, but I'm just living my real life, lights out. They call me by my name on news feeds. Now let me tell you about my bruise.” 

MINNIE captures listeners with an introduction that directly details the hardships of living in the spotlight. This ‘bruise’ refers to her dedication as an artist—including her journey from Thailand to Korea to debut with (G)-IDLE in 2018—and her present endeavor as a solo act. 

The succeeding lyrics in verse one are: “new reality to make real, bet you might cry” showcase MINNIE's confidence as a performer, along with her passion for music and ability to captivate audiences through her charismatic personality and voice. 

The chorus furthers these themes as MINNIE fervidly sings: “You think you know me? .. / I’m hurt, you want HER but you’ll never get HER, 'cause I’m HER. I shot ya. Shoot you in your heart, 'cause I’m HER.” 

This multifaceted ‘HER’ is bold and not one to be messed with. She’s unstoppable, unpredictable and undoubtedly brilliant. MINNIE unpacks the perceived self by exposing her unique struggles while simultaneously highlighting the presenting self through the fearless ‘HER.’

While the song’s main charm is its lyrics, other elements like its bass lead, crisp drum beats, layered vocals and enigmatic tone make it cleverly indulging. 

I enjoyed “HER” for its laid-back groove and metaphorical lyrics. Its music video is additive due to MINNIE’s acting, characters and costumes. Her embodiment of different personalities is haunting and sensational. This release will be a constant play throughout the year as it excellently solidifies MINNIE’s solo career and ‘HER’ charms as an artist.