Ever since Jennie left her former agency, YG, and established her own company, the BLACKPINK member has remained incredibly active, with her popularity continuing to rise. Now, after months of teasing, she has finally released her first full-length solo album, Ruby! With 15 tracks, the album explores seven key stages of her life and features some major collaborations—fans are loving it!
This Wednesday, Jennie took fans by surprise by uploading a collaborative video with Billboard Korea on Billboard’s YouTube channel. The 10-minute long video, titled JENNIE’S ICONIC STAGE: Ruby | Billboard Korea x Billboard, features an interview in which Jennie opens up about the process of creating her debut album. It also includes a full performance of her electrifying title track, “Like JENNIE,” and the first look at her track “Handlebars!”
Why Ruby?
At a private listening event in Seoul, Jennie revealed that the album’s concept was inspired by Shakespeare’s As You Like It, specifically the idea of “The Seven Ages of Man.” She wanted to express different versions of herself throughout these stages. As for the name Ruby, it represents self-reflection and the opening of a red theatre curtain—symbolic of a new beginning. Plus, For those who don’t know, Ruby is actually part of her full name—Jennie Ruby Jane! So, it’s honestly the perfect title for her!
Jennie’s First Solo Project—A Year in the Making
This is Jennie’s first time producing an album entirely on her own, without her groupmates by her side. She admitted that the process was intense and overwhelming at times, but she was determined to create something that truly represents her. Through Ruby, she hopes fans can understand her better and see the kind of music she really wants to make.
Stepping Out of Her Comfort Zone
Jennie described the album-making process as an experiment—trying new things, taking risks, and stepping out of her comfort zone. She spent more time in the studio than ever before, pouring all kinds of emotions into Ruby. Over the past year, she’s grown a lot and gained a better sense of who she is and what she truly wants.
A Genre-Bending Album for Everyone
Jennie knows that musical tastes vary, so she made sure Ruby had something for everyone. From R&B to hip-hop to experimental sounds, she calls it a musical “buffet” where every listener can find a track they vibe with. “I hope to surprise people, but at the same time, I want them to feel a sense of familiarity,” she said. And if you don’t like it? “That’s fine too, I won’t be mad!”
Working non-stop for the album —But She’s Finally Happy
Since BLACKPINK wrapped up their world tour in 2023, Jennie has been working non-stop—launching her company, filming variety shows, signing brand deals, and of course, making music. She first teased Ruby back in October with Mantra, followed by ZEN, Love Hangover, and ExtraL, all of which were huge hits. Now, she’s preparing for her first solo Coachella performance in April, and BLACKPINK’s next world tour is set for later this year.
Despite her packed schedule, Jennie says she’s finally found happiness. In a recent interview, a fan asked her: “A few years ago, you said you felt like you were getting closer to happiness. Now that you’re almost 30, do you feel happy?” Jennie’s response? “During this past year, while working on Ruby, I reached that happiness. Even though I was exhausted, I also learned to love myself more.”
Ruby Track list
Ruby is stacked with bangers, featuring big-name collaborations and a diverse range of sounds. Fans are already calling it “Album of the Year” and praising Jennie’s bold artistic direction.
1. Intro: JANE (with FKJ)
2. like JENNI
3. start a war
4. Handlebars (ft. Dua Lipa)
5. with the IE (way up)
6. ExtraL (ft. DoechiiE)
7. Mantra
8. Love Hangover (ft. Dominic Fike)
9. ZEN
10. Damn Right (ft. Childish Gambino & Kali Uchis)
11. F.T.S
12. Filter
13. Seoul City
14. Starlight
15. twin
With Ruby officially out, it looks like 2025 is Jennie’s year—again.
Click here to purchase the album! ! !
