After taking the global music charts by storm with her single, "Mantra", Jennie finally released her solo album Ruby on Friday, Mar 7, 2025. Unlike the previous album, Ruby feels like a metamorphosis journey-one that showcases Jennie's evolution into a true musician. Let's dive into the review below!
Who is Jennie?
As one of the biggest girl group members in the world, BLACKPINK, Jennie has long been seen as the ultimate 'popular girl'. However, with this album, she challenges that perception. That's right Ruby's 15 tracks introduce a Jennie, we've never seen before. Every song in this album exudes confidence, sharp lyricism, and bold production, making it more honest, powerful, and ultimately, more Jennie.
"Mantra", which was released late last year, for example. The song subtly hinted at Jennie's musical shift. Through its lyrics, she embraces her independence, showing the world that she is a self-sufficient woman who dares to chase her dreams on her terms.
Then comes "Like Jennie", released alongside the album. This track storms in like a hurricane, marking the full transformation of Jennie from the cool, composed idol, to a full-fledged badass. The hard-hitting beats and diss-filled lyrics aim at those who try to imitate her, making it clear that her presence isn't just about music it's about influence.
And influence is exactly what Ruby delivers, with a star-studded lineup of collaborators. Jennie teams up with SZA on "Start a War", Dua Lipa on "Handlebars", Dominic Fike on "Love Hangover", Doechii on "ExtraL", and both Childish Gambino and Kali Uchis on "Damn Right".
In each track, Jennie is determined to show her true self. On "Start a War" (with SZA) and "Handlebars" (with Dua Lipa), she lets her vocals shine-something often overshadowed by her rap role in BLACKPINK. Meanwhile, her sweet, delicate voice takes center stage in "Love Hangover" and "Damn Right". And for those who love Jennie the rapper, "ExtraL" with Doechii proves she's still got it, delivering some of her most assertive bars yet.
Raw Emotions and Authenticity
Musicians are often known for being emotional and sensitive-and Jennie is no exception. As the executive producer of Ruby, she takes listeners on a roller-coaster of emotions throughout the album.
The journey begins with "Like Jennie", a powerful statement of self-identity. The album then slows down in the middle, before picking up again with emotionally charged, high-energy tracks like "ZEN" and "Filter". As Ruby nears its end, Jennie unveils her deepest emotions with "Twin", a heartfelt song about the pain of losing a close friend unexpectedly.
Jennie acknowledges this metamorphosis in an interview with Vogue, revealing that Ruby was inspired by theater curtains, pomegranates, and her desire to be more open about her artistic process.
 Ruby's Tracklist / Foto: Genius |
"I'm going through an emotional roller coaster right now, and every day has been different," she confessed. In a conversation with Billboard, she further explained that this album reflects her personal growth and musical journey.
"What I've experienced, what I resonate with, or what I want in my life-those are the things that have changed since being in BLACKPINK. Now, I get to say my message in my way," she said.
Ruby is Jennie's most honest work yet-dedicated to her fans, listeners, and even haters. This album proves that she is not just a global pop star or a member of a K-pop girl group. She is a musician who has undergone a fearless, artistic metamorphosis-one that is reflected in every note, lyric, and beat of Ruby.
(DIR/DIR)