K/DA is officially back. Six years after their last release, the virtual group returns with FIRESTARTER while also introducing artist Sophie Powers as she steps into the role of Evelynn.
While the full music video went live a couple of weeks ago (embedded below), Netto's Game Room caught up with Sophie to discuss FIRESTARTER and taking over the role of Evelynn following Madison Beer's departure.
Here is what she had to say:
K/DA has been quiet for quite some time, with their last song released back in 2020. However, there have been numerous rumors and leaks regarding the group's return with "FIRESTARTER." How did you personally feel when those leaks started surfacing, and how challenging was it to keep the return a secret?
It's funny because I didn't actually believe I was Evelynn until the music was released! So I didn't really tell anyone, meaning it wasn't hard at all to keep my mouth shut.
I don't know why, but it genuinely didn't feel real, and honestly, it still doesn't. I think I'm still accepting it myself. But I hope everyone is happy now that the music is finally out there in the world.
Starting with "FIRESTARTER," you have stepped into the role of Evelynn following Madison Beer's departure. Did you feel a lot of pressure taking on a role with such a large legacy behind it, and what events led to you getting the part?
Obviously, there was pressure because Madison did such an amazing job. But I actually think Kim Petras and Bea Miller alleviated some of that pressure, considering they both also portrayed Evelynn.
That made me more confident because I realized there's room to explore different sides of this character beyond where Madison took her. I wanted to do something different, and that's what I did.
With you taking over the vocal role, how do you think this transition will shape Evelynn's sound moving forward? Have you brought your own personal hyperpop twist to the character and her style, or do you feel you've stayed entirely faithful to what fans originally grew to love?
Honestly, I hope I've stayed faithful to what fans love because I was, and still am, a fan of K/DA first and foremost.
Before I was Evelynn, I had "Villian" and "POP/STARS" in my playlist for years. So it's hard for me to speak on behalf of the rest of the fandom because now I'm actually Evelynn and not just a fan, and that's a big difference.
But from what I've seen since the EP came out, fans have been responding to a lot of the choices I made for Evelynn that were different from choices made in the past. That's been so, so amazing to see.
What has it been like working alongside your fellow group members—MIYEON, SOYEON, and Mimi Webb? How supportive have they been as you stepped into this new role?
They're all so talented, first and foremost.
Unfortunately, I have yet to meet any of them in person, but I'm incredibly honored to be alongside artists like them on a record that's such a great collection of music.
Before becoming a singing voice for K/DA, what were your general thoughts on K-pop? Do you have a personal favorite group in the genre?
I don't think I have one favorite girl group because I genuinely support all female artist and want to uplift all girl groups!
I've recently been loving aespa's new EP. I've collaborated with those girls, and I'll support them forever. I think Aespa is doing some really cool things.
I also love ITZY! I've already seen them in concert.
But I don't think I could choose a favorite girl group because I'm always listening to so many of them.
In terms of boy groups, though, I'd say my favorite is Stray Kids. I actually had the chance to do a DJ set that was technically opening for them.
They'll probably forever be my favorite boy group. Nostalgia!
Following the release of "FIRESTARTER," you'll be making your live debut at the Worlds 2026 Finals. How have you been preparing for such a massive stage, and how are you feeling as the event approaches?
I'm definitely feeling nervous, but I'm excited!
I'm excited to meet so many of the amazing artists I'm on these tracks with in person for the first time.
But I'm also excited to really embody Evelynn on that stage. I want to do her right. I want to do her justice, and I can't wait for everyone to see!
How do you feel about K/DA's future, and do you think fans will have to wait as long as last time to hear more?
I definitely don't think they'll have to wait as long as last time, but I can't really speak any further than that.
I can say I'm excited for K/DA's future, and I'm so blessed and thankful for the present moment. I'm looking forward to what's next!
8. Is there anything else you'd like to tell the K/DA fans out there? I would just like to say that I'm genuinely so honored to be Evelynn!
I truly do love K/DA. I truly do love this fandom, and thank you for letting me be a part of this universe.
And finally, just for fun, without saying Evelynn, who is your favorite League of Legends character?
Oof, probably Jinx!
She's a good carry, and I've also cosplayed her twice. I love Arcane, and I just think she's so cool!
I'd like to thank Sophie once again for taking time out of her busy schedule to speak with us, and for more, here's both the Official Music Video for FIRESTARTER along with the Choreography video. Additionally those who would like to follow Sophie can do so via her Instagram.
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