BLACKPINK's Jennie is gearing up for a solo release, her first in five years.
In a recent cover interview with Harper's Bazaar Korea for their October issue, Jennie hinted at her upcoming solo track. When asked about the concept or music genre she'd like to explore in her next album, Jennie responded, "I'm working on something that's very 'Jennie' and very me. Please look forward to it."
She also shared her thoughts on her ongoing vlogs, capturing her daily life. Jennie mentioned, "It's genuinely a reflection of my everyday life. Meeting fans directly hasn't been as easy since the pandemic, so I felt the need for a platform where I could show a more approachable and relaxed side of me. That's what the vlog is for. But I still get nervous and feel awkward every time I film."
Anticipation is high for Jennie's new solo project, especially since it's rumored to include 'YOU & ME', a song she performed during their global tour. This speculation grew stronger when the song was recently registered with the American Society of Composers.
Jennie's solo release comes nearly five years after her debut as a solo artist with the digital single 'SOLO' on November 12, 2018. The track immediately topped major domestic music charts and reached number one on iTunes single charts in 40 countries and regions. At the time, Jennie became the first Korean female solo artist to top the iTunes Worldwide Song Chart and enter the top 10 on the US iTunes chart.
Meanwhile, Jennie's contract renewal with YG Entertainment is at a crossroads. BLACKPINK, which debuted in August 2016, has had hits over the past seven years, including 'Whistle', 'Boombayah', 'Playing with Fire', 'STAY', 'As If It's Your Last', 'DDU-DU DDU-DU', 'Kill This Love', 'How You Like That', 'Lovesick Girls', and 'Pink Venom'. Their exclusive contract reportedly expired this August.
Without mentioning their renewal status, BLACKPINK has been conducting a large-scale world tour. On September 16th and 17th, they held the 'BLACKPINK WORLD TOUR BORN PINK FINALE IN SEOUL' at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, marking the end of their tour. At the end of the concert in Gocheok Dome, Jennie expressed, "We celebrated our 7th debut anniversary this year. Thank you, BLINKs, for always supporting and loving us. We'll continue to be the amazing BLACKPINK you know. We love and appreciate you," signaling their intent to continue group activities.
Although a month has passed since the contract expiration, no official statement has been made by either party. On July 12th, rumors suggested that among the BLACKPINK members, only Lisa might not renew with YG. YG responded to Newsen, "No decisions have been made regarding the renewal. Discussions are ongoing."
Following that, on September 21st, when rumors surfaced that only Rosé had renewed and the other three members might leave YG, the agency clarified to Newsen, "Nothing has been confirmed regarding BLACKPINK's renewal. Discussions are still underway."
