Jennie Kim, known as Jennie from the global sensation BLACKPINK, unveiled her debut solo album, Ruby, a 15-track opus that marks a pivotal moment in her artistic journey. Released under her own label, Odd Atelier, in partnership with Columbia Records, Ruby is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a bold declaration of independence, a kaleidoscope of sound, and a deeply personal exploration of identity. After years of captivating audiences as part of BLACKPINK, Jennie steps into the spotlight alone, proving she’s not just a cog in a well-oiled machine but a multifaceted artist ready to carve her own path.
The album’s title, Ruby, nods to Jennie’s childhood alter ego, Jennie Ruby Jane, a persona she crafted while living in New Zealand as a young girl. Inspired by Shakespeare’s As You Like It, the record weaves themes of birth, love, faith, and self-realization into its fabric, reflecting the seven stages of life outlined in the play. From the theatrical cover art—Jennie parting a red curtain—to the sonic diversity within, Ruby feels like a performance, each track a scene in a larger narrative. It’s an ambitious concept, and Jennie delivers it with a confidence that feels both earned and exhilarating.
Ruby kicks off with “Intro: JANE,” a dreamy collaboration with French producer FKJ that sets the tone with its ethereal, music-box-like opening. Jennie’s soft vocals float over intricate beats, hinting at her evolution from BLACKPINK’s polished pop to something more experimental. The track transitions into “Like JENNIE,” a hip-hop-infused anthem that explodes with swagger, its metallic baile funk-phonk hybrid beat underscoring her unapologetic self-assurance. It’s a statement of intent: Jennie is here to redefine herself, and she’s not holding back.
The album’s strength lies in its genre-hopping versatility, a testament to Jennie’s willingness to push boundaries. “Mantra,” the lead single released in October 2024, blends brassy pop with a chant-along chorus, becoming an instant global hit. Meanwhile, “Damn Right,” featuring Childish Gambino and Kali Uchis, drips with sultry R&B vibes, showcasing Jennie’s ability to hold her own alongside heavyweights. “Handlebars,” a collaboration with Dua Lipa, offers a polished pop gem, while “ExtraL” with Doechii leans into sleek synths and rapid-fire rap, highlighting her vocal agility. Each collaboration feels purposeful, amplifying Jennie’s vision rather than overshadowing it.
At its core, Ruby is a personal record, with lyrics that peel back the layers of Jennie’s public persona. “Love Hangover,” featuring Dominic Fike, explores the intoxicating pull of a toxic relationship, her falsetto soaring with vulnerability. “Twin,” the album’s closer, is a stripped-down acoustic ballad that doubles as a poignant farewell to a past connection, rich with nostalgia and introspection. These quieter moments balance the album’s high-energy peaks, revealing a depth that fans may not have expected from the K-pop star known for her fierce stage presence.
Beyond the music, Ruby is a cultural moment, accompanied by the Ruby Experience, a series of intimate concerts that began on March 6, 2025, in Los Angeles. The shows, complete with cinematic visuals and a credits roll, immerse fans in Jennie’s world, while her upcoming Coachella performance promises to bring Ruby to an even wider audience. It’s a fitting rollout for an album that feels like a rebirth, a shedding of expectations in favor of something raw and real. Jennie herself has called it a “buffet” of sounds, and she’s not wrong—there’s something here for everyone, delivered with her signature flair.
Ultimately, Ruby is Jennie’s unpolished gem—brilliant, multifaceted, and occasionally rough around the edges. It’s a debut that doesn’t just meet the hype but exceeds it, offering a glimpse into an artist who’s only beginning to tap her potential. As she steps out of BLACKPINK’s shadow, Jennie proves she’s not just playing a role but writing her own script, one dazzling track at a time. With Ruby, she’s not only redefined her narrative but set the stage for a solo career that promises to shine even brighter in the years to come.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neill_frazer
