Why No Na’s “sad face :(” Might Be Their Defining Moment

No Na have returned with their latest single “sad face :(”, released under 88rising, and the music video has already racked up over 600K views within just a few days. Smooth, melancholic, and dripping in R&B flair, the track further cements the Indonesian girl group’s growing reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s most promising acts.

The Song & Visuals

“sad face :(” leans into a moody, laid-back groove that fans have compared to the likes of SZA. The vocals are clean and controlled, showcasing the group’s ability to ride a mellow beat without losing their edge. The MV itself takes a more cinematic and natural approach—warm tones, minimal effects, and a spotlight on the members’ visuals and charisma.

For fans who first fell in love with the group through “shoot” and “superstitious,” this feels like the next chapter. If “shoot” highlighted their vocals and “superstitious” leaned into dance, “sad face :(” turns the focus to emotion and star quality.

Fan Response: Praise & Frustration

The Orchid fandom has flooded the comments section with excitement, streaming parties, and calls for wider recognition. Reactions range from “This has been on repeat since it dropped” to “This is one of the best girl groups from Southeast Asia.” Many praised the group’s natural beauty, tight harmonies, and the addictive chorus that fans say “stays stuck in your head after one listen.”

But alongside the love comes frustration. A recurring theme in the comments is the lack of promotion. Fans have urged 88rising to push the group harder on global platforms, pointing out comparisons to how HYBE promoted Katseye. Suggestions include late-night TV in the U.S., Asian award shows, and collaborations with platforms like The First Take or Dingo Music. One fan summed it up:

“Why invest so much in a group just to silently be the reason for their downfall?”

Why It Matters

No Na aren’t just another girl group trying to fit into the K-pop mold. They’re carving out their own identity in the global music space, drawing from Southeast Asian talent and culture while tapping into international R&B trends. In a year when Indonesian pop is gaining new momentum on the world stage, “sad face :(” feels like a statement track—cool, confident, and quietly powerful.

Looking Ahead

With festivals like HITC New York on the horizon and a steady string of singles under their belt, No Na are at a crucial point in their career. Fans are already chanting for the next track, rumored to be “Back Off.” If promotion can catch up to the music, there’s little doubt these women have the talent and charisma to break through internationally.

For now, “sad face :(” is another reminder: No Na aren’t here to follow trends—they’re here to set their own.