GARNiDELiA's New MV Sparks Controversy with "Free Hong Kong" Message

On December 1st, Japanese music duo GARNiDELiA released a new version of their song "Tougen Renka [PROGRESS]" on their official YouTube channel. However, the video quickly became embroiled in controversy when a scene featuring the phrase "Free Hong Kong" appeared due to a potential oversight by the post-production team, who may not have fully understood the context of the material. Within an hour of its release, the video was removed from the platform.

GARNiDELiA, consisting of vocalist MARiA and composer toku, has been active since 2010 and made their mainstream debut in 2012. They gained immense popularity in the Chinese-speaking world after the release of their hit song "Gokuraku Jodo" in 2016. Since then, they have frequently performed in China, contributing theme songs for popular games like "Onmyoji," "Night of the Full Moon," and "Lily’s Sword: For This Peaceful World," while also appearing on various variety shows, earning nicknames such as "the two-dimensional diva who conquered Bilibili" and "Sister Bud."

The controversial MV is no longer available on YouTube or the Chinese video platform Bilibili, and there has been no official comment on the matter from GARNiDELiA's social media channels. However, the audio version of the song remains accessible on YouTube, allowing fans to still enjoy the music despite the video's removal.

Impact on GARNiDELiA's Image

This incident raises questions about how such political messages can inadvertently affect artists' reputations, especially in a sensitive market like China. GARNiDELiA's strong fanbase in the region could be impacted by public perception, leading to potential backlash or support depending on how they choose to address the situation.

Responses from Fans and Analysts

Fans have expressed mixed reactions online, with some supporting the group's artistic freedom while others are concerned about the implications of the message. Analysts suggest that this incident highlights the challenges artists face when navigating political issues in their work, especially in markets where censorship is prevalent.

Looking at Future Releases

As GARNiDELiA continues to produce music, it will be crucial for the duo to carefully consider their visuals and messaging. Future releases may require more scrutiny to avoid similar controversies, ensuring that their creative expression does not clash with audience expectations or geopolitical sensitivities.

Broader Context of Music and Politics

This situation also reflects a larger trend within the music industry where artists grapple with political themes in their work. Many musicians strive to convey messages through their art, but as GARNiDELiA's experience shows, the reception can vary dramatically based on cultural and political contexts.

Conclusion

While the "Tougen Renka [PROGRESS]" MV has been retracted, it serves as a reminder of the fine line artists walk when addressing political themes in their work. GARNiDELiA's next steps will be closely watched as both fans and critics analyze how they navigate this complex landscape.