Mainstream
BE:FIRST
Riding the Wave: BE:FIRST's Anthem of Innovation
BE:FIRST's song 'Mainstream' is a powerful declaration of their intent to redefine trends and set new standards in the music industry. The repetitive use of 'zoom zoom zoom' symbolizes rapid movement and progress, reflecting the group's ambition to quickly rise from the bottom to the top. The lyrics emphasize their confidence in creating trends rather than following them, showcasing a rebellious spirit against conventional norms. This is evident in lines like 'We’re gonna create the trend' and 'We show you the new standard,' which highlight their determination to lead rather than conform.
The song also delves into the idea of authenticity and self-expression. BE:FIRST rejects the notion of fitting into pre-existing molds or seeking validation from mainstream metrics like top charts and hot words. Instead, they embrace their unique style and creativity, as seen in the lines 'You don’t have to be smart, あるがままが my style' and '生き様全てがアート.' This celebration of individuality is a central theme, encouraging listeners to be true to themselves and not be swayed by societal expectations.
Cultural references to Tokyo and the media landscape further enrich the song's narrative. The mention of Tokyo as a starting point signifies the group's roots and the global influence of Japanese pop culture. The lyrics also critique the media's role in shaping public perception, with lines like '嫌いな存在がメディアの進化形' suggesting a complex relationship with fame and media representation. By addressing these themes, BE:FIRST not only asserts their place in the mainstream but also challenges the very concept of what it means to be mainstream, making 'Mainstream' a bold and thought-provoking anthem for the modern era.