I AM

"I AM" by IVE is a powerful anthem of self-love, confidence, and individuality. The song's core message is about embracing one's own path and identity without the need for external validation. The lyrics encourage listeners to be the authors of their own lives, to see their potential as a vast and beautiful galaxy, and to have the courage to step onto their own 'big, big stage'. The recurring line, "I'm on my way," reinforces the theme of a continuous journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The song also touches upon the idea of becoming an inspiration to others, being "someone's dreams come true," which adds a layer of shared positivity and purpose to the message of individual strength. Ultimately, "I AM" is a declaration of self-acceptance and a celebration of the journey to becoming one's true self.

The song opens with a declaration of independence, urging the listener to open a new door and not feel compelled to follow others. It emphasizes that each person has their own unique path to follow. The lyrics paint a picture of daily transformation, where every day brings a new feeling and a different color to life's journey. It’s about finding a brightly shining path and having faith in oneself. The pre-chorus introduces a powerful and uplifting message, suggesting that you are the manifestation of someone else's dreams and a beautiful memory, a déjà vu of a perfect day. It evokes a sense of being a breathtaking, aspirational view that one would want to linger in.

The chorus is a grand, anthemic statement of self-identity. It metaphorically describes life as a beautiful galaxy and casts the individual as the writer of their own fantasy-genre story. It speaks of a grand stage that awaits tomorrow, solidifying the declaration of 'this is who I am'. The song then shifts to a more energetic and thrilling tone, highlighting the excitement of becoming a new and different person from yesterday. It transforms fear into exhilarating excitement, making trivial matters fade away. The recurring phrase 'I'm on my way' serves as a constant affirmation of progress and self-belief.

The bridge offers a message of resilience and encouragement. It addresses moments of being lost on a dark night, suggesting that instead of despairing, one should soar high. It beautifully conveys that whichever path you take will become your destined road. This section reinforces the overarching theme of self-determination and the power to create one's own destiny. The song concludes by reiterating the core message, hoping that the listener becomes someone's 'dreams come true' and a beautiful memory, solidifying a legacy of being an inspiration and a source of joy for others.

"I AM" was released on April 10, 2023, as the lead single from IVE's first studio album, "I've Ive". The announcement of the album was made by Starship Entertainment on March 16, 2023, revealing it would contain eleven tracks. The tracklist, confirming "I AM" as the title track, was released on April 2. The song was written by the renowned lyricist Kim Eana. The composition and arrangement were handled by a team including Ryan S. Jhun, Kristin Marie Skolem, and Audun Agnar Guldbrandsen, with Eline Noelia Myreng also contributing to the composition. The song was recorded at Ingrid Studio and 821 Sound in Seoul. A music video teaser was released on April 8, followed by a highlight medley for the album the next day, building anticipation for the official release.

"I AM" is a dance-pop track with a high tempo of 122 beats per minute, composed in the key of E minor. The rhythm is driving and energetic, creating a sense of forward momentum that complements the lyrical theme of being "on my way." The song's structure alternates between more restrained verses and a full, explosive chorus, creating a dynamic rhythmic experience. While not adhering to a strict, traditional rhyme scheme, the lyrics employ a mix of rhymes and near rhymes, particularly in the Korean-language verses, to create a sense of flow and catchiness. The pre-chorus and chorus sections rely more on melodic repetition and powerful delivery than intricate rhyming, which is characteristic of anthemic pop songs. The rhythm of the vocal delivery often plays off the synth-heavy beat, with the members' phrasing accentuating the song's energetic and uplifting feel.

"I AM" employs a range of musical and literary techniques to create its powerful and polished sound.

Musical Techniques:

• The song features a grand and polished production with a rich, synth-driven instrumental. It opens with a flurry of strings and a synth-guitar hybrid, creating a thrilling soundscape.
• The vocal arrangement showcases the members' dynamic ranges, from Wonyoung's lower register in the verses to the powerful, high-pitched belts in the chorus. The mixing is noted for being superb, flattering the members' vocals and creating a full, anthemic sound.
• The song has a dynamic structure, building from a lower-key verse to an emotional pre-chorus and culminating in a soaring, powerful chorus. The final minute of the song is particularly noted for its well-calibrated bombast and "confetti drop aplomb".

Literary Techniques:

• The lyrics utilize direct address and empowering affirmations (e.g., "You just need to believe") to create a personal and motivational connection with the listener.
• The use of mixed languages, particularly the integration of English phrases like "dreams come true" and "beautiful galaxy," is a common stylistic choice in K-pop that enhances the song's global appeal and memorability.

"I AM" was a major commercial success, topping South Korea's Circle Digital Chart for six consecutive weeks and achieving a "perfect all-kill" on Korean music charts. It became IVE's fourth number-one single in the country. The song also performed well internationally, reaching the top ten in Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam. It charted on the Billboard Global 200 and was certified platinum for streaming in South Korea. The song received critical acclaim, with publications like Billboard and Dazed naming it one of the best K-pop tracks of 2023. It won several awards, including Best Song (Daesang) at the Hanteo Music Awards and Artist of the Year (Digital) at the Circle Chart Music Awards. "I AM" solidified IVE's position as a leading group in the 4th generation of K-pop, known for their empowering concepts and chart-topping hits.

The lyrics of "I AM" are rich with symbolism and metaphors that enhance its empowering message.

• "Life is a beautiful galaxy": This metaphor suggests that life is vast, full of wonder, and contains countless possibilities, much like a galaxy with its billions of stars. It encourages a perspective of awe and limitless potential.
• "Be a writer, the genre is fantasy": This line is a powerful call to action, positioning the listener as the creator of their own life story. The choice of 'fantasy' as the genre implies that one's life can be extraordinary, magical, and not bound by the constraints of reality.
• "A big, big stage will open for me tomorrow": This symbolizes future opportunities and the chance to shine. It frames the future as a grand performance where one can showcase their true self without fear.
• "Open a different door": This symbolizes taking a new and unconventional path in life, breaking away from the norm and expectations of others.

The most prominent recurring phrase in "I AM" is "I'm on my way." This phrase acts as a central motif, reinforcing the song's message of progress, determination, and confidence in one's chosen path. Its repetition throughout the song serves as a powerful affirmation. Another key recurring lyrical idea is being "someone's dreams come true," which appears in the pre-chorus. This motif adds a layer of aspirational beauty to the song, suggesting that in being true to oneself, one can become an inspiration to others. The declaration, "So that is who I am," which concludes the chorus, is a definitive statement of self-identity that encapsulates the entire theme of the song. Musically, the song features a recurring synth hook that is both powerful and memorable, contributing to its anthemic quality.