KAIA's in the Spotlight with an Overhaul of their Pre-Debut Hit

Rookie P-Pop group KAIA has come a long way since their pre-debut single, 'KAYA,' was originally released in December 2021. It seems only fitting that they're celebrating that journey by releasing a new version of that very song. How do you top the performance video that launched them into the public eye? With a unique acoustic version, of course. Let's take a peek at 'KAYA Acoustic' by KAIA.

KAIA Will Make It

['KAYA'] reminds us that we can do anything if we believe it's reachable

We're no strangers to 'KAYA' and its messages of persistence and perseverance. With their uplifting lyrics, they remind us that we can do anything if we believe it's reachable. The song was written by the five current members, with help from former member Joanna and songwriter and composer Ohwon Lee. With the lyric "kaya kaya na (I can really do it)," it's not surprising that the group's unofficial slogan became "KAIA will make it!"

An Evolution

'KAYA Acoustic' is not just a new version but an evolution toward the sound that KAIA is capable of.

Of course, the biggest change comes with the total rearrangement of the song. 'KAYA acoustic' isn't just a stripped-down version of the song; it's a complete rearrangement done with the help of musical director Adonis Tabanda. Tabanda's name is starting to crop up around the performances of P-Pop groups quite a bit lately; he was also in charge of the musical arrangements of SB19's BITZ, Forte, and Ozone Concerts. Here, he has taken the EDM-inspired dance track that is the original 'KAYA' and transformed it. 'KAYA Acoustic' is not just a new version but an evolution toward the sound that KAIA is capable of. With the more concise vocals supported by a simpler instrumental arrangement, we can finally appreciate both the lyrics and the absolutely perfect vocals of all five members.

Thanks to the reassigning of vocal parts, we're also getting a real idea of what the girls are capable of. Separating the parts of twins Charice and Angela allows their voices to finally stand out on their own. We'd never guess that Angela's smoother and deeper vocals can be so different from Charice's higher tones. Parting more vocals to rapper Alexa and dancer Sophia has an instantly pleasing effect. Alexa's distinct vocal style, which mixes smooth notes with vocal fry, adds flavor to any song. Meanwhile, Sophia's higher notes are an excellent foil against the lower voice of Angela. Not to be left out of the vocal line, the Bunso (youngest) member, Charlotte, takes much of the rap in the song, setting a nice contrast to the acoustic vocals.

Leveling Up

'KAYA Acoustic' is not just a remix but a level-up for the group and a chance to prove themselves as vocalists.

The performance video itself is simple but calming. The five girls recorded the track live while playing the instruments themselves. Instrumental training of modern idols can be overlooked or not emphasized, but 'KAYA Acoustic' places the artistry of the girls at the forefront. Shades of beige and brown against a simple backdrop are bringing the girls themselves into the spotlight until we can hardly notice anything but their impressive skills as performers.

KAIA has shown us the long journey they've been on as artists until now. From the trials of training to the pain of losing their sixth member, we can only imagine how hard it was to persevere. For all the reasons above, 'KAYA Acoustic' is not just a remix but a level-up for the group and a chance to prove themselves as vocalists. With so much promise, we can't wait to see what is next for the group that just keeps gaining momentum in the Philippine music industry. KAIA is (definitely) here. And KAIA will surely make it.

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