BLACKPINK’s Jennie Named to Billboard’s “Best Albums of 2025 So Far”: Only K-pop Artist on the List
BLACKPINK’s Jennie has once again proven her global influence—this time not with group activities, but with her groundbreaking solo debut Ruby, which earned her a coveted spot on Billboard’s “50 Best Albums of 2025 So Far.” Notably, Jennie is the only K-pop artist to make the list, further highlighting her distinct artistic identity and crossover appeal.
In their review, Billboard hailed Ruby as “a striking first project brimming with confidence, elegance, and strength.” The publication emphasized the album’s introspective themes, stating, “Each track builds on its central theme—identity—and Ruby emerges as a symbol of Jennie’s artistic persona: rare, authentic, and multifaceted.”
Jennie’s creative involvement was central to the project. Following her departure from YG Entertainment and the founding of her own label, Jennie took the reins in shaping her sound and image. She co-wrote and co-composed 10 of the album’s 15 tracks, including the assertive title track “Like Jennie.” The word “Jennie” appears 63 times in the song, serving as a bold, unapologetic statement of self. The viral line “Is it a crime to be great?” has become a rallying cry among fans, and the track’s dance challenge quickly spread across social media, even making its way to American television screens via popular weather anchors.
Ruby also earned praise from Rolling Stone and Complex, both of which included it in their own best-of-the-year lists, cementing Jennie’s reputation as not just a pop icon but an artistic force.
Meanwhile, fellow BLACKPINK member Rosé continues her own impressive solo trajectory. Her collaboration with Bruno Mars, APT., has now spent 35 consecutive weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, currently sitting at No. 25. The song debuted at No. 3, making Rosé the first female K-pop soloist to reach the Top 10 of the chart.
As Jennie and Rosé continue to dominate with individual projects, their successes mark a new chapter for BLACKPINK—one where each member is carving out a unique legacy while still carrying the torch for K-pop worldwide.
