JENNIE's "Ruby”. Better Than We Thought.
JENNIE, a pivotal force within BLACKPINK, has unveiled her highly anticipated solo debut album, "Ruby," marking a significant milestone in her artistic evolution. This long-form project, released after months of anticipation and a series of compelling singles, showcases JENNIE's multifaceted talent and solidifies her position as a formidable solo artist. Not going to lie, after Lisa’s album (Alter Ego) a few weeks we were not expecting to be blown away, but to our surprise "Ruby" is not merely a collection of songs written by the same old industry writers; it's a carefully curated narrative and exploration of JENNIE's identity and artistic vision. The album's diverse tracklist, featuring collaborations with a range of prominent artists, reflects her ability to navigate various musical landscapes, from R&B-infused pop to more experimental soundscapes.
The album's rollout, commencing with the release of "ZEN," "Love Hangover" featuring Dominic Fike, and "ExtraL" with Doechii, set the stage for the unveiling of "Ruby." These singles, each possessing a distinct sonic character, hinted at the album's thematic and stylistic breadth. Collaborations with FKJ, Dua Lipa, Childish Gambino, and Kali Uchis further underscore JENNIE's commitment to artistic collaboration and her ability to transcend genre boundaries.
The album's lead single, "Like Jennie," accompanied by a visually striking music video, serves as an anthem of self-assertion and empowerment. Co-produced by Diplo and co-written with Zico, the track's infectious energy and bold lyrics encapsulate JENNIE's star power. The music video, featuring JENNIE as an astronaut clad in ruby red gear, adds a layer of visual symbolism, reinforcing the album's title and thematic focus.
JENNIE's debut solo concert at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, coinciding with the album's release, provided an intimate setting for her to connect with her audience. The performance, characterized by its theatricality and emotional depth, showcased JENNIE's ability to command a stage and deliver a compelling narrative. The contrast between the delicate ballerina opening and JENNIE's powerful emergence in an oversized fur coat and baby blue stockings underscored the album's thematic exploration of duality and complexity.
The concert's production, featuring floor-to-ceiling LED screens, a live band, and choreography by Charm La'Donna, highlighted JENNIE's commitment to delivering a visually and sonically immersive experience. Her performance of "Start a War," a song about fierce love, set the tone for the album's exploration of intense emotions and personal narratives.
JENNIE's address to the audience, expressing her vulnerability and desire to present her "raw and honest side," revealed a deeper layer of artistic intention. "Ruby" is not just a commercial endeavor; it's a personal statement, a collection of stories told through music. The album's diverse tracks, from the Mike Will Made-It-produced "Seoul City" to the ballads "F.T.S." and "twin," showcase JENNIE's versatility as a vocalist and songwriter.
"Ruby" arrives as the culmination of BLACKPINK's members' solo projects, following releases from ROSÉ, JISOO, and LISA. The album's release precedes BLACKPINK's highly anticipated reunion tour, scheduled to commence in July. JENNIE's comments regarding the reunion, expressing her excitement to share her personal journey with her bandmates, suggest a renewed sense of unity and artistic collaboration.
The album's significance extends beyond its commercial success; it represents a moment of artistic autonomy for JENNIE, a chance to define her identity beyond the confines of a group. "Ruby" is a testament to her talent, her vision, and her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.
