IVE's 'BANG BANG' Lyrics: Unpacking the Meaning of Their Concept Shift

IVE's pre-release track 'BANG BANG' from their second full album 'REVIVE+' is currently a hot topic in Korea, accumulating 62 million music video views in six months. The song is generating buzz for its reinterpretation of a 2014 hit and a notable shift in IVE's established concept, moving towards a more assertive and rockstar-like image.

Released on February 9, 2026, 'BANG BANG' features lyrics co-written by members like Jang Wonyoung, and is a cover of a 2014 hit by Jessie J, Ariana Grande, and Nicki Minaj. Despite its Western-themed guitar sounds and title, the song's 'BANG BANG' is interpreted not as gunfire, but as an impactful entrance or a spectacular finish. This track represents a deliberate break from IVE's previous elegant and narcissistic image, showcasing a rougher, more aggressive presence.

Bloggers emphasize that the key phrase 'I be going out with a bang' signifies a habitual style of making a grand, impactful exit or impression, rather than a literal explosion. They note that while the song is generally suitable for school festivals due to its lack of explicit violent or sexual content, the gun-like sound of the title might warrant consideration for younger audiences or specific school events.