Rina Sawayama's "STFU!" Is an Anthem of Chaos

READ:  Rina Sawayama Is a Futuristic Pop Icon in the Making

Rina Sawayama is crafting a style of artistry that challenges any and all preconceived notions. On her newest single, "STFU!," Sawayma blends the extremes of gentle pop with a frenetic taste of metal for a euphonious glam metal experience.  

"STFU!"  opens with an ear-melting guitar and thudding drums, setting the tone for the chaos that is to ensue. Quickly, Sawayama enters with nostalgic  '90s pop vocals that nicely juxtapose the sound of the roaring instrumental. Suddenly, the track transitions to a brief pop takeover accompanied by dreamy synths, chimes, and much more subdued drums. Over the newfound soundscape, Sawayama melodically goods, "shut the fuck up" and "have you ever thought about taping your big mouth shut? / 'cause I have, many times, many times," all before the chaos of clashing instrumental continues.

Over the roaring guitar, Sawayama releases an ominous giggle that further adds to the nearly post-apocalyptic nature of the track. The unexpected departure from her noted amalgamation of early  '00s pop and R&B feels wholly intentional.  

"STFU!, Sawayama's first single under British indie label Dirty Hit, is a much-needed lesson in how toxic it can be to normalize microaggressions. Sawayama spoke further on her first-hand experience with  microaggressions during a supporting show for Charli XCX, sharing with the crowd,  

"So, my name is Rina Sawayama, and I found out one label exec jokingly called me Rina Wagamama. I was pursuing a deal with them, but you know, that's gone."  

In its entirety, "STFU!" is a special blend of metal of pop that results in a roaring anthem of chaos targeted against how we view and speak not just about Japanese culture but all minority groups. It is a hectic mix of wonder carrying a powerful message.    

Watch the video for "STFU!" below:

Related Articles

Daya is Burning Toward Stardom With Demise

Daya is Burning Toward Stardom With Demise

June 30, 2025 The rising star took the time to answer all our burning questions about the new single, feeling confident in your skin, and Webkinz.
Author: Rebeccah Blau
pop
Alex Porat’s crushed! Is The Perfect Soundtrack for Crush Summer

Alex Porat’s crushed! Is The Perfect Soundtrack for Crush Summer

June 28, 2025 The Canadian’s latest EP, crushed!, is here to provide the perfect soundtrack for summer 2025.
Author: Rebeccah Blau
pop
BETWEEN FRIENDS Chat New Single “XD”, Opening for Olivia Rodrigo, and New Album WOW! [Q+A]

BETWEEN FRIENDS Chat New Single “XD”, Opening for Olivia Rodrigo, and New Album WOW! [Q+A]

June 28, 2025 Electro-pop connoisseurs BETWEEN FRIENDS have been rolling out their sophomore record throughout the last few months, capturing the digital age in their high-energy, emotional web.
Author: Giselle Libby
pop
XD