Following the group’s indefinite hiatus in 2017, T-ARA returned with a single album, Re:T-ARA, in 2021. Unlike their predecessors who released digital singles — or, in some cases, a cover album — they announced a comeback without the help of an agency. Subsequently, this means they became the first mainstream female K-pop music act to do so.
It started as a promise made to fans, a dream that would transform into reality. Continuous talks soon became directed towards this collaborative effort. Subsequently, an agreement was reached with Dingo Music, with participation from long-time producers and lyricists, culminating in the release of two songs for their discography.
Dingo Music released a three-part vlog, in the form of a documentary, titled T-ARA Cue Again. This includes scenes of their preparation, including recording from the studio and on set of the music video for Tiki Taka. It also features small moments of appreciation and heartfelt confessions from the members towards each other and devoted fans.
General summary
Ep.1
In this opening clip, the members talk with staff at Dingo Music to share their motivations and reasons for making this comeback. Together, they specifically reinforce the importance of timing. For them, this has become a ‘now or never’ moment. They give acknowledgement to their circumstances but also thank fans for taking interest and supporting the group.
Ep. 2
This segment shows scenes of cooking and interactions of the members. While eating, they talk about preparing for a comeback. Specifically, they mention the importance of having a concept to match a song choice. Their goal is to release a song with a sound that is trendy yet familiar to those who are accustomed to the “T-ARA sound.” They contact Ahn Young Min, a lyricist who participated on tracks in their early discography. He agrees to collaborate with Cho Young Soo and produce their comeback track, All Kill.
Ep. 3
This final clip highlights stages of preparation for the comeback, with scenes from the recording studio for All Kill and set of the music video for Tiki Taka. Finally, the members sit down to discuss their excitement and hopes for this comeback. They open up about experiences with filming and completing their promise to appear in front of fans.
Concluding thoughts
The decision to return is simultaneously met with a brimming sense of fear, anticipation and excitement. Nonetheless, it generated positive reception. The members also felt satisfied, and through this opportunity, were able to re-experience feelings of comfort and relief. It seems, then, that feeling motivated to pursue personal achievement, and not necessarily receive acknowledgment from others, provides greater value.
In the working environment provided by Dingo Music, all teams behaved responsibly and organized systems of trust to successfully complete preparations for the comeback. The focus and investment of time towards fulfilling a promise to appear ‘before the first snow’ reflects an effort from all parties involved. Touching, to say the least.
See also:
The music video for Tiki Taka is available for viewing on YouTube:
The live performance clip for All Kill is also available:
The single album, RE:T-ARA, is also out on selected music streaming platforms including Apple Music, Spotify and YouTube Music.
