Rodnae “Chikk” Bell is an American singer and songwriter. She has written songs for many artists, including Jennifer Hudson and Jordin Sparks. She has written for K-pop groups and soloists, including Wendy of Red Velvet, BoA, SF9, Irris, and more. We will be showcasing some of our favorite songs written by Chikk. Although she has an incredible catalog of music, we will highlight a few of our favorites with this songwriter spotlight!
Love Is The Way – Red Velvet
“Love Is The Way” by Red Velvet expresses the internal conflict and struggle to show one’s true emotions to a love interest. The song potrays the feeling of confusion and uncertainty that comes while in a romantic relationship. Musically, the song has a retro yet groovy sound filled with stunning harmonizations from the five member group.
Don’t Call Me – SHINee
“Don’t Call Me” released in 2021 by SM Entertainment’s SHINee. This track from their seventh studio album is about a break-up and moving on after being hurt by a former lover. The lyrics express how they want to forget about that person and how they don’t want to answer their calls anymore. The instrumental of “Don’t Call Me” has intense 808 bass, synth sound, and a few sampled vocals.
Mr. Mr. – Girls’ Generation
Chikk entered the K-pop scene with “Mr. Mr.”, performed by Girls’ Generation. The song showcases the confidence and empowerment one feels by being in the presence of someone special. This song is Chikk’s first number-one hit in her songwriting career, also one of her most notable songs in the industry. “Mr. Mr.” is an electropop and pop-R&B song that incorporates a hip-hop bear and EDM-influenced buildups.
Siren – P1Harmony
“Siren” by P1Harmony is from their debut EP ‘Disharmony: Stand Out.’ The lyrics express the feeling of unity, resilience, and determination in the face of challenges. “Siren” also encourages the listener to embrace their own power. The song is a powerful hip-hop track, allowing the members’ vocals to shine through from start to finish.
La La La – Weki Meki
In 2018, Weki Meki released their second EP ‘Lucky,’ home to the title track “La La La.” Chikk plays with the theme of romantic feelings and the uncertainty that follows suit. The lyrics communicate a desire for someone to approach and express their feelings honestly without cryptic messages. “La La La” has aggressive percussion followed by a funk guitar.
Favorite (Vampire) – NCT 127
NCT 127 took the world by storm in 2021 with the release of “Favorite (Vampire),” showing us a passionate yet hectic love on the borderline of obsession. Through the lyrics, Chikk reveals intense feelings towards a significant other, comparing the love to a fever-like obsession that takes over them. The instrumental is pop and R&B with hip-hop and trap-inspired production with an unforgettable whistle.
Girls – aespa
In 2022, Aespa released “Girls,” an anthem about empowerment that celebrates the strength and unity of women. The lyrics touch on themes of parallel universes, where the four-member girl group exists as a powerful being who provides a voice for the voiceless. The song is described as a dark electropop, dance, and pop song with heavy bass synths.
Monster – EXO
We saved the best for last! “Monster” by EXO explores the fine line between devotion and obsession. The lyrics describe a person obsessed with their lover, going as far as calling themselves a monster. The instrumental is a dark and intense mid-tempo dance song. “Monster” won many awards for the boy group, and ranked at number two on Dazed Magazine’s 20 Best K-Pop Tracks of the Year!
What’s your favorite song written by Chikk? Let us know on Instagram and Twitter!
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Featured Image Credit: Chikk Official Instagram
