BLACKPINK’s Jennie’s Solo Album “Ruby” Named a Top Album by Billboard.
BLACKPINK’s Jennie just hit a major milestone with her solo debut. Her first solo album, Ruby, got picked by Billboard as one of “The 50 Best Albums of 2025 So Far.” That makes her the only K-pop artist to make the list this year.
Billboard praised the album, saying, “For fans who have long awaited Jennie’s official solo debut, ‘Ruby’ arrives as an impressive first project, shining with confidence, elegance, and strength.” They also said, “The album’s opening track, ‘Like Jennie,’ leaves a powerful impression with its bold and unapologetic lyrics, revealing her candid self. This energy is maintained throughout the entire album.”
Ruby also got recognized by Rolling Stone and Complex, both naming it “Album of the Year.”
Jennie released the 15-track album after leaving YG Entertainment and starting her own agency. She’s credited as co-writer and co-composer on 10 of the tracks. The title comes from her English name, “Jennie Ruby Jane.”
The lyrics of Like Jennie mention her name 63 times, with direct lines like, “Yes, I’m guilty, it’s a sin to be cool” The song sparked a viral dance challenge that spread widely—even U.S. TV weather forecasters joined in.
Billboard also highlighted that, “Each track further solidifies the central theme (self) and demonstrates that ‘Ruby’ is a rare, authentic, and multifaceted entity, symbolizing Jennie’s artistic identity. It clearly shows that Jennie holds complete control in all aspects, from sound to visuals.”
The recognition came on June 24th (local time), when Billboard released its mid-year album roundup.
