The elements of this track include Rina's melody and line, a midi synth used to harmonize with Rina, a synth sample, and the percussive synth in the beginning.  During the first verse, the synth sample is silent, the harmonizing synth repeats a simple melody, and the percussive synth keeps the pulse. Rina carries the melody. The harmonizing synth repeating the same melody over and over again symbolizes the returning thought of the girl on the subway that Sawayama just can’t shake. All elments play during the bridge where Sawayama sings the words “but it’s something else.” Sawayama specifically highlights the words “but it’s something” while leaving the word “else” as a solo, thus suggesting that the feeling she is feeling is something that should be acknowledged rather than something else unknown to her. 

For a majority of the song, the harmonizing synth plays a separate repeating melody that supports the Rina's melody except for in the chorus when Sawayama sings “Oh they make me feel alive,” where they come together in unison. And if we imagine that this second line represents Sawayama’s internal thoughts, those are the times when Sawayama’s conscious and subconscious align, making that line stronger as she gives in to her feelings. Right before her final verse, all parts begin to play a simple melody, the synth sample and percussive synth dancing around the same notes, slowly building anticipation. This symbolizes her slowly realizing this has always been who she was. During this “realization” moment, Sawayama suddenly sings lower, as if speaking to herself in her realization right before bursting into the final verse or bridge. By the final verse and chorus of the song, Sawayama  accepts her pansexuality and her attraction to people as a whole and boldly sings “Won’t you be my cherry now!” At this point, all parts have an interesting melody, with an additional countermelody added. This symbolizes that she is everything at once and all the feelings which previously seemed conflicting are just melodies that make up her life. She ends the same way she began but this time, instead of a soft, small, and pleading tone, she is confident in her words [2].

The music video for “Cherry” contains many forms of queer symbolism. To begin, the word cherry has many different symbolic meanings behind it. Considering her Japanese roots, “cherries” or a cherry tree means delicacy and beauty in Japanese culture (Young A.). Though the song isn’t called cherry tree, the opening for the video is Sawayama lying on the floor being covered in what looks like rose petals. Being covered in the flower petals represents coming to peace with the feeling of being attracted to everyone which is a unique, delicate, and beautiful experience. The music video features a diverse set of dancers made up entirely of queer people of color. Her intentional inclusivity further shows her dedication to creating a space for everyone as well as highlighting the different faces present in the LGBTQIA+ community.

✨STFU!✨

Rina Sawayama's music goes beyond entertainment, serving as a source of empowerment, self-acceptance, and solidarity for diverse communities. Through her bold exploration of identity and challenges to societal norms, she amplifies the voices of marginalized groups and fosters inclusivity. From her unapologetic queerness in songs like "Cherry" to her defiance against racism and misogyny in "STFU!", Sawayama inspires fans to embrace their true selves. Undoubtedly, Sawayama's name will be remembered among iconic figures like Madonna, Elton John, and Dolly Parton for her profound impact on the music industry and beyond.