How girl group DNA is making their own name

Meet DNA, the dynamic girl group previously known as the Mitra Sisters. What might surprise you is that their journey into the spotlight began with a firm "no." When their famous aunt first pitched the idea of them forming a group, the sisters initially declined.

Ezri, the eldest, explained that after years spent together during the pandemic, they each sought individual paths. Tasha, the youngest, felt this most acutely, expressing a desire to forge her own identity, free from the constant comparisons of being "so-and-so's sister," a common experience having attended the same schools as her siblings. The concern was also that a professional collaboration might strain their personal bond, despite their shared passion for performing arts.

However, understanding Tasha’s initial hesitation requires a look at their formidable family tree. The Mitra sisters boast a lineage steeped in Philippine entertainment royalty. Their mother, Cacai Velasquez-Mitra, is a renowned figure in performing, talent management, and concert production. Their father, Raul Mitra, is a highly respected music director, composer, and arranger. Their uncle is the celebrated singer-songwriter Ogie Alcasid, and the very aunt who initially proposed the group was none other than Asia’s Songbird, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid.

From their early days as the Mitra Sisters to their current identity as DNA, their famous lineage has always been a focal point for the public and media. Ezri acknowledges this, stating it’s something they’ve been prepared for their entire lives. "It was always gonna be there," she remarked, explaining that even before their public debut, the expectation and association with their family were ever-present. Yet, the sisters view this as a blessing, confident in their own unique talents and what they bring to the table.

While conscious that their family name helped open doors with Star Pop and also fuels public scrutiny, the sisters remain grounded. Ezri emphasizes that their focus is on demonstrating their effort and unique capabilities. Julia adds that their family's unwavering support alleviates the pressure to "live up to" their elders; instead, the real challenge is to showcase their own distinct strengths and perform to the best of their abilities. They are particularly grateful for the early embrace from the "Reginians," their aunt’s devoted fanbase, who showed up in force at their first ASAP taping.

As DNA, the sisters are consciously charting a unique musical course, diverging sharply from the iconic emotional pop ballads their family is known for. Their debut single, “Don’t Ask Me Why,” is a bold statement—edgy, brimming with swagger, and a testament to their full-throttle production. Penned by Ezri herself, the track was born from her experiences with comments on her fashion choices, evolving into an empowering anthem urging people to mind their own business.

Interestingly, "Don't Ask Me Why" wasn't originally their top choice for a debut. It was one of several songs Ezri presented to the production team, who unexpectedly championed it after collaborative songwriting sessions. Ezri’s initial arrangement on Logic was refined by her father, Raul Mitra, for the demo, then ultimately produced and arranged by Jonathan Manalo. Tasha playfully admits, "We didn't vote for 'Don't Ask Me Why,'" highlighting the team's strong belief in the track.

With Star Pop managing visuals and marketing, the sisters, all adept in visual arts, play a pivotal role in DNA's overall creative direction. Ezri collaborates closely with Star Pop's songwriting and production teams, supported by Jonathan Manalo and Roxy Liquigan, on musical and instrumental aspects. Tasha notes how supportive the team is of Ezri's vision, a sentiment echoed by Ezri who felt fortunate that their personalities and established musical patterns naturally aligned with the team's creative consensus. Their defined aesthetic is "definitely pop" with R&B infusions, a darker edge, and a "futuristic" vibe, positioning them as a more mature presence among Asian girl groups.

Reflecting on their debut, "Don't Ask Me Why" serves as an impactful introduction, a captivating anthem that brilliantly showcases their collective talents in rapping, singing, and dancing. Its music video, launched on October 16, perfectly embodies their desired futuristic and dark aesthetic. While it's a strong starting point, Ezri hints that it’s just a taste of their evolving sound, promising that their music will continue to define their unique identity. As they look ahead to new releases and a future full of possibilities, DNA is poised to prove that their artistry is entirely their own, despite their illustrious background. They aspire to be recognized for their hands-on approach and authentic creations, ensuring their talents shine independently.