For those of you new to Kpop, Amber is 1/4 of the group f(x), although she had her solo debut in 2015. But she's back with a new single, and it's seriously awesome. 

It's part of SMTOWN's digital music project called SM Station, where a new song is released digitally every week, and this is definitely my favourite song from the project so far. The song was composed and written in english by Amber herself. The fact that she wrote it makes the song feel so much more powerful and meaningful, as you can tell it really comes from the heart.

Before I talk about the song and video, I thought it would be important to post Amber's message she wrote about the song. It was in the description for the official video. Here it is: 'Before the song is released there are a couple things I'd like to share. This song took me a lot of courage to write because I was always apprehensive of the subject it talked about. I've been doing this job for a long time and right now I speak not as Amber of f(x) nor "celebrity" Amber, but just Amber. Just plain, simple, human Amber. "Borders" is more than a song; no glamorous concepts, no "trying to be cool." Its a raw and real story about reality. Its shares, not only about my personal experiences but of people very close to me. Everyone involved in this project- the producers, my team DPR, the actors, to the staff- were people specifically chosen as they have never given up on me and believed in my vision. For that, I want to thank them for making this possible for me. When you guys listen to "Borders", there is just one thing i wish everyone could take from it: NEVER give up on yourself. There is always hope in the midst of this dark, demanding world. In the end, live for those that did not get the chance to and just keep fighting. Always, thank you you guys. You guys made it possible.'

I think it's a wonderful message, and it made me feel quite emotional while reading it (bearing in mind this is before I'd even seen the video or heard the song!) I like how she says 'Just plain, simple, human Amber'. The lyrics are coming from her truest and most honest self, and this makes the song's message feel even more powerful. 

The video shows Amber in all black, inside a small box/cube, lit up at the sides. No crazy theatrics, no glamorous concept, it's very simple, but so beautiful and a great use of symbolism. It cuts between shots of Amber to shots of a young woman, struggling with body issues and a young man dealing with what seems like depression. Both of these people are driven to suicide, the woman pouring lots of pills into her hands and bringing them to her face, and the man standing on the edge of a bridge, looking down at the sea below. This is some seriously hard hitting stuff, and it can be quite difficult to watch, especially for those who have unfortunately gone through similar things before, and the themes of this video and song really hit home. But both the woman and man get through it, and at the end of the video are shown smiling, and living their normal day to day lives. I think it's so important that these issues and topics are brought to our attention more often, as they just are not talked about enough. Unfortunately we live in a day and age where body image and having to be 'perfect' seems to be so much more prominent than it was 20 years ago. And more and more young people are making themselves ill and trying so hard, just because they feel they have to be 'perfect'. There are also lots of people who suffer with depression, and don't know how to deal with it and don't get the help they need and tragically take their own lives. Although these are dark themes, I'm so glad Amber brought them to light with her song, as the lyrics fit so perfectly with them, and anyone watching who deals with similar issues themselves can relate, and use to song to help them get through it.

The song itself works very well as a rap ballad, and I'm glad it wasn't a collaboration. I don't think it would have worked as well had it been, and she's proven that she's a very capable songwriter. She absolutely deserved to be solo for this one. I love the second verse and chorus. She really goes for it and it's so powerful and emotive, you can hear that she means every single word she's saying. Amber has always been a great rapper, and this song proves how authentic she is. 

As for the lyrics themselves, the song is about believing in yourself and never giving up. The chorus is powerful and clearly shows the meaning behind the song. "Cause mom said I’d be crossing borders, Never be afraid even when you’re cornered, Stand up straight, fight your way, Fight your way, fight your way" Its raw emotion that she's put into the song, and it makes the whole thing feel much more authentic. It's a strong message we can all take with us when we face times of hardship. Above all of this, it's a catchy tune with a melody thats enjoyable to listen to, although the lyrics and meaning are what make it really special. 

There is always a silver lining, and if you're facing dark times, or going through something difficult, keep fighting, because you will win. Amber believes in you, the forteloud team believe in you and I believe in you. If you need help or someone to talk to the Samaritans are a 24/7 free service that are always there to listen, it's completely anonymous and off the record. Click here for their contact information. Click here for information and help if you are feeling suicidal or struggling.