Sistar 19 has made a comeback after 11 years with their new album 'No More (Ma Boy)," which connects the fusion of past and present emotions in a more mature form. To be part of this special moment, Q Magazine had an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the jacket shoot, providing an inside glimpse into Sistar 19's stories. Discover the behind-the-scenes and their journey in this exclusive feature.
Q. First of all, there was an 11-year hiatus since “Ma Boy.” So tell us a little bit about what’s been going on in your life and introduce us to the new album, “No More (Ma Boy)”?
Bora: After wrapping up Sistar, I focused on various works as an actress. As for “No More (Ma Boy),” it’s an extension of “Ma Boy.” While “Ma Boy” expressed emotions closer to a young girl's heart, this album portrays a more mature and confident image continuing from “Ma Boy.”
Hyolyn: I’ve been steadily continuing my solo music career and learning and growing as an artist. “No More (Ma Boy)” is a comeback after 11 years, so it’s an album that expresses a more mature, feminine, and dignified side of us compared to our previous Sistar 19 era. There are two tracks in the album, the title track, “No More (Ma Boy)” is an extension of “Ma Boy” and has a catchy hook and melody. On the other hand, “Saucy” evokes similar emotions as “Ma Boy.”
Q. Since 11 years have passed, and “No More (Ma Boy)” is an extension of “Ma Boy,” could you share the storyline of the song?
Bora: If “Ma Boy” expressed emotions closer to a young girl’s heart, this album portrays a more mature and confident image continuing from “Ma Boy.”
Hyolyn: It expresses love evolving in a more mature way, similar to how a girl becomes a woman. While “Ma Boy” pleads for love toward a man, “No More (Ma Boy)" says a cool goodbye with a more mature sense of emotions.
Q. After such a long hiatus as a group, there must have been a lot of pressure and anticipation in preparing the new album. Were there any memorable moments in the process?
Bora: There was both pressure and anticipation, but working with Hyolyn was so enjoyable that it didn’t feel like a long time since we’ve worked together. There was a memorable episode during the filming of the music video for this album. During the choreography, there were many scenes where Hyolyn and I faced each other like decalcomania, and I remember having a hard time controlling my laughter because I kept bursting out laughing every time we faced each other. It was hard to hold back the laughter, but I remember having a lot of fun while we were laughing.
Hyolyn: There were a lot of parts of the choreography where we made eye contact, and I think I remember having a lot of fun filming the music video because I laughed every time I saw her.
Q. Having shared countless shoots and stages over the years, you both seem to have great chemistry. What was it like working on an album together after so long?
Bora: It felt like we hadn’t been apart for long. Our synergy was great and our opinions matched well. Every moment of the process was enjoyable.
Hyolyn: It’s been a long time since I’ve been a solo artist. It’s been so much fun working together, and I find myself laughing more than before. I’m looking forward to the album activities.
Q. As we head into 2024, are there any goals or new challenges that you would like to achieve this year?
Bora: As this year starts with a comeback, my goal is to successfully finish this album well, and I’m looking forward to doing new starting with this album. Also, I hope to have various experiences that will allow me to develop in different aspects.
Hyolyn: After releasing “ICE” in 2022, I would like to produce and compose the entire album for my next mini-album. I know it’s hard work but I would also like to have a solo concert, continue learning English, and love myself more. Oh! And if I have time, I would like to learn swimming and diving, belly dancing, and pole dancing.
Q. This album seems musically mature, as well as the emotions. Could you share SISTAR19’s musical growth, and how does the narrative and concept of the album connect with the previous ones?
Hyolyn: SISTAR19, 11 years ago, navigated the delicate boundary between girlhood and womanhood, and in 2024, we're upgrading to a more mature atmosphere. You can expect explosive vocals and delicate vocal control from me, and Bora's rap adds a mature touch, creating exceptional chemistry. We hope this album, waited for by fans, will be meaningful.
Q. Where does Sistar 19's confidence in speaking up for yourself come from?
Bora: Above all, you need to know and love yourself to express confidence.
Hyolyn: I think it comes from trusting myself. Confidence comes from believing in myself.
Q. Are there any additional plans or concepts for future albums sparked by this release?
Bora: There are no specific plans at the moment, but I look forward to experiencing more enjoyable and exciting things in the future.
Hyolyn: When I went abroad to work on music, I encountered the Afro genre, and it was fascinating. I want to create diverse Afrobeat music using elements from Africa and Brazil, and also learn Afro dance.
Q. Lastly, would you say a few words of New Year’s greeting for the fans who have been eagerly waiting?
Bora: Thank you so much for waiting for us. As much as we are enjoying this endeavor, we hope you also will, and we are always grateful for that. We hope the rest of the year will bring great happiness and fun. Happy New Year.
Hyolyn: Thank you for not forgetting Sistar 19 and waiting for a long time. I hope our special gift will bring us a little closer together and hope to share special moments more often, I love you! With this comeback, Sistar 19 has gained new energy and is eager to deliver fresh emotions to their fans. Anticipate their evolved presence showed through their matured emotions and musical growth in "No More (Ma Boy)." Alongside their New Year greetings to the fans, we look forward to sharing this special moment and witnessing the new facets they bring to the table.
