Song You Need to Know: Ravi, ‘Winner (feat. Ash Island)’

South Korean rapper, producer and songwriter Ravi dropped his sophomore studio album Love & Fight earlier today. The record is led by the single “Winner,” featuring rapper Ash Island, and its accompanying music video. The album follows the VIXX member’s January pre-release single “Virus” with rapper JUSTHIS.

“Winner” highlights Ravi’s love for alternative rock and hip-hop and is reminiscent of early 2000s releases from Sum 41. The track blends soaring electric guitar riffs and upbeat percussion, pairing it with Ravi’s deep vocals and signature style of rapping to create a ballad-like atmosphere. The production also brings in a touch of autotune on Ravi’s vocals and it’s a style of performance that collaborator Ash Island is particularly known for–his 2020 release “Error” being a prime example–adding a haunting edge to what might otherwise seem like a rebellious track on the first listen.

The lyrics revolve around an apology, with Ravi’s verses begging for forgiveness after a fight and accepting defeat, “I’ll let you win it all/ It’s all my mistake, you are winner… I’m not trying to win by losing, babe/ I don’t wanna put blood on you/ I’m not trying to win by losing, babe/ I don’t wanna raise my voice at you.” There is a complex seesaw between blame and acceptance of one’s own mistakes, and Ash Island’s verse swings between frustration and apologies as he questions, “What the hell is my existence to you?” before switching gears and rapping, “Actually it’s just a lie, okay/ I know my mistake, it’s all my fault.”

The music video for “Winner” sees Ravi attempting to run away from his love interest. He roams through an empty hotel and an amusement park, slightly dizzy in his endeavour to escape the girl who follows him. No matter where he attempts to hide, she appears before him–almost like a ghost or vision– and the clip sees him unravel further as it progresses. The video also features shots of Ravi performing the track’s choreography with a crew of background dancers.

Love & Fight features 11 tracks including “Virus,” “Winner,” and Ravi’s December 2021 release “Ani” with girl group (G)I-dle’s leader, Soyeon. The LP follows his 2021 EP Roses. The rapper and producer is also set to perform live at his upcoming concert ‘Revoir’ which will take place from February 25th to February 27th in Seoul.

Check out the previous ‘Song You Need to Know’ here.