On The Ground (Album -R-) by ROSÉ
BLACKPINK's Rosé Solo Debut: All About Her Single Album -R-
The K-pop world is buzzing with excitement as BLACKPINK's Rosé makes her highly anticipated solo debut. On March 12, the talented vocalist released her first single album -R-, marking a significant milestone in her career. This release has captivated Blinks (BLACKPINK fans) worldwide and has drawn attention from music enthusiasts across the globe, showcasing Rosé's unique artistry and vocal prowess.
-R- features two tracks: the title song "On the Ground" and the B-side "Gone," both sung entirely in English. This solo venture allows Rosé to step into the spotlight and express her individual style, following in the footsteps of her bandmate Jennie, who released her solo track "SOLO" in 2018. The album's release comes after Rosé's performance of "Gone" during BLACKPINK's live-stream concert "THE SHOW," which left fans eager to hear more from the K-pop star. With YG Entertainment's support and Rosé's personal involvement in the creative process, -R- promises to be a mellifluous journey into the artist's musical world.
"R"
Artist
Rosé
B-side
"Gone"
Released
March 12, 2021 (digital)
March 16, 2021 (CD & Kit)
April 19, 2021 (vinyl)
Format(s)
CD, Kihno Kit, vinyl, download, streaming
Recorded
2019–2021
Length
6:15 (digital)
12:30 (physical)
Label(s)
YG Entertainment
Distributor(s)
YG PLUS (Korea)
Interscope Records (global)
Writer(s)
Amy Allen, Jon Bellion, Jorgen Odegard, Raúl Cubina, TEDDY, Rosé (Track 1)
Brian Lee, J. Lauryn, TEDDY, Rosé (Track 2)
Composer(s)
24, TEDDY, Rosé, Jon Bellion, Jorgen Odegard, Amy Allen, Raúl Cubina (Track 1)
24, TEDDY, Rosé, Brian Lee, J. Lauryn(Track 2)
The Anticipation: Rosé's Journey to Solo Debut
Teaser Releases
The anticipation for Rosé's solo debut began to build when YG Entertainment announced her upcoming project. On January 25, 2021, a 33-second teaser titled "Coming Soon" was uploaded to BLACKPINK's official YouTube channel, featuring Rosé singing a snippet of an unknown track. This teaser gave fans their first glimpse of Rosé's solo work, showcasing her distinctive voice and hinting at the emotional depth of her upcoming release.
Fan Reactions
The teaser release sparked immense excitement among BLINKS and music enthusiasts worldwide. Fans expressed their enthusiasm on social media platforms, with many commenting on the teaser's impressive view count, which surpassed 19 million views within a day of its release. Fans shared their expectations for the solo debut, anticipating a heavily acting-based music video with emotional scenes and a possible continuation of themes from BLACKPINK's "Lovesick Girls".
YG Entertainment's Announcements
YG Entertainment played a crucial role in building anticipation for Rosé's solo debut. The company confirmed that Rosé had completed filming for her music video in mid-January and promised an "unprecedented budget" for the release. They also announced that Rosé would premiere her solo track at BLACKPINK's virtual concert, "THE SHOW," scheduled for January 31, 2021. On March 2, 2021, YG Entertainment officially announced the release date for Rosé's solo project as March 12, 2021, revealing the lead single's title, "On the Ground," the following day.
Breaking Down the Single Album -R-
Track List
Rosé's debut single album -R- consists of two tracks: the title song "On the Ground" and the B-side "Gone." Both songs are performed entirely in English, showcasing Rosé's versatility as a vocalist and her ability to connect with a global audience.
Musical Style
The album showcases a blend of pop and rock influences, reflecting Rosé's diverse musical background. "On the Ground" features a pop-rock sound with a catchy chorus and introspective lyrics. "Gone," on the other hand, offers a more mellow and emotional tone, allowing Rosé to display her vocal range and emotive delivery.
Collaborations
While -R- does not feature any external collaborations, it highlights Rosé's individual artistry and songwriting skills. The production team behind the album includes experienced professionals from YG Entertainment, ensuring a polished and high-quality sound that complements Rosé's unique vocal color and style.
The Title Track: On the Ground
"On the Ground" serves as the lead single from Rosé's debut solo album -R-. The electropop and pop rock track features synth-pop elements and an EDM-inspired beat, complemented by a simple guitar. Rosé, along with a team of experienced songwriters, crafted this introspective piece that reflects on her journey as a global K-pop star.
Lyrics Analysis
The song's lyrics delve into the realization that true fulfillment lies within oneself rather than external success. Rosé sings, "I worked my whole life just to get high, just to realize everything I need is on the ground". This powerful message resonates with listeners, encouraging them to appreciate life's simple joys and stay grounded amidst the pursuit of dreams.
Music Video Highlights
The visually stunning music video for "On the Ground" tells a story of self-discovery. It opens with a falling comet and features Rosé in various settings, including a bedroom with a falling chandelier and a theatre exit. A particularly striking scene shows Rosé accompanied by six clones on a staircase with the message "Roses are Dead, Love is Fake".
Chart Performance
"On the Ground" achieved remarkable success, debuting at number one on both the Billboard Global 200 and Global Excl. U.S. charts. It garnered 92.1 million global streams and 29,000 global downloads in its first week. The song also peaked at number 70 on the US Billboard Hot 100, becoming the highest-charting release by a female K-pop soloist at the time.
B-Side Track: Gone
"Gone" is a melancholic ballad that explores the emotional aftermath of a relationship ending. The song's lyrics convey a sense of loss, longing, and the struggle to move on after a breakup. Rosé's vocals, accompanied by an electric guitar, create a laid-back atmosphere that resonates with listeners.
Song Meaning
The track delves into the complex feelings of heartbreak, with Rosé singing about being haunted by memories of a past relationship. The lyrics suggest that her ex-partner had no intentions of a long-term commitment, leaving her feeling betrayed and unwanted. The song's title reflects the central theme of a person or relationship disappearing from the singer's life.
Live Performance at 'THE SHOW'
Rosé premiered "Gone" during BLACKPINK's virtual concert "THE SHOW," giving fans their first taste of her solo work. The performance showcased Rosé's ability to convey raw emotions through her voice, bringing the song's vulnerable lyrics to life on stage.
Fan Reception
"Gone" received positive reactions from fans, with many praising Rosé's vocal performance and the song's emotional depth. Some listeners found the track's subdued "acoustipop" style particularly appealing, appreciating its authenticity and Rosé's ability to convey deep feelings.
Rosé's Artistic Input in -R-
Songwriting Credits
Rosé actively participated in the songwriting process for both tracks on -R-. She received songwriting credits for "On the Ground" alongside Teddy Park, while "Gone" credits her with Brian Lee, Teddy Park, and Jay Lauren. This involvement showcases her growth as an artist and her ability to contribute to her own musical narrative.
Creative Direction
The BLACKPINK member played a significant role in shaping the album's direction. She personally requested to perform her new song at BLACKPINK's upcoming event, demonstrating her eagerness to share her solo work with fans. Rosé's input resulted in a sound distinctly different from BLACKPINK's, offering a fresh perspective on her artistry.
Personal Touches
Rosé's personal experiences and emotions are woven throughout -R-. The album reflects her journey of self-discovery and growth as an artist. As she explained, "Writing from depths never explored and feeling sometimes like I was losing my mind, a softness unfurled. I've moved out of a chaotic, transitional place. I'm not running anymore". This introspective approach adds depth and authenticity to the album, allowing listeners to connect with Rosé on a more personal level.
Production and Behind-the-Scenes
Recording Process
The recording process for Rosé's solo debut album -R- involved multiple steps. Typically, K-pop songs require several days to weeks of studio time, depending on the complexity of the tracks. For Rosé, the process likely included laying down vocals, harmonies, and multiple layers. The album features production by Teddy, a long-time collaborator with BLACKPINK, who has produced many of their hit songs.
Music Video Filming
YG Entertainment announced that Rosé completed filming for her music video in mid-January 2021. The music video for "On the Ground" showcases Rosé in various settings, including empty theaters and a field of flowers. K-pop music video productions are often elaborate, involving multiple locations, costume changes, and complex choreography. The filming process can take several days to weeks.
Team Involved
The production team behind -R- included experienced professionals from YG Entertainment. Notable contributors were producer Teddy, who has a long-standing relationship with Rosé and BLACKPINK. Other producers credited on the album include 24, Jon Bellion, Jorgen Odegard, and Ojivolta. This collaboration of talented individuals ensured a high-quality sound that complements Rosé's unique vocal style.
Impact on BLACKPINK and K-pop Industry
Setting New Records
Rosé's solo debut has had a significant impact on the K-pop industry, setting new records and raising the bar for solo artists. Her music video for "On The Ground" garnered 41.6 million views in the first 24 hours, breaking the record for the most viewed YouTube music video by a solo K-pop artist. This achievement surpassed PSY's "Gangnam Style," which held the previous record for eight years.
Influence on Solo Debuts
Rosé's success has paved the way for other K-pop group members to pursue solo careers. Her debut album "R" topped Billboard's Global 200 and Global Excl. U.S. charts, making her the first artist to reach number one on a Billboard Global chart as both a soloist and as part of a group. This accomplishment demonstrates the potential for K-pop idols to achieve success independently while maintaining their group identity.
Global Recognition
Rosé's solo debut has further solidified BLACKPINK's global impact. The group has already achieved numerous firsts as an all-female K-pop group, including becoming the first to play Coachella and later return as headliners. Rosé's individual success contributes to BLACKPINK's growing international recognition, showcasing the versatility and talent of K-pop artists on a global stage.
ROSÉ - 'On The Ground' M/V
My life's been magic seems fantastic
I used to have a hole in the wall with a mattress
It’s funny when you want it
suddenly you have it
You find out that your gold’s just plastic
Every day, every night
I've been thinking back on you and I
Every day, every night
I worked my whole life
Just to get right, just to be like
Look at me, I'm never coming down
I worked my whole life
Just to get high, just to realize
Everything I need is on the
Everything I need is on the ground
On the ground
Everything I need is on the ground
Nah, but they don’t hear me though
(Yeah, what goes up, it must come down)
Nah, but they don’t hear me though
(You're running out of time)
My world’s been hectic, seems electric
But I been waking up with your voice in my head
And I'm tryna send a message
To let you know that every single minute I'm without you, I regret it
Every day, every night
I been thinking back on you and I
Every day, every night
I worked my whole life
Just to get right, just to be like
Look at me, I'm never coming down
I worked my whole life
Just to get high, just to realize
Everything I need is on the
Everything I need is on the ground
On the ground
Everything I need is on the ground
Nah, but they don’t hear me though
(Yeah, what goes up, it must come down)
Nah, but they don’t hear me though
(You're running out of time)
I'm way up in the clouds
And they say I've made it now
But I figured it out
Everything I need is on the ground
Just drove by your house (Just drove by your house)
So far from you now (So far from you now)
But I figured it out
Everything I need is on the
Everything I need is on the ground
On the ground
Everything I need is on the ground
Nah, but they don’t hear me though
On the ground
Nah, but they don’t hear me though
Everything I need is on the ground
Conclusion
Rosé's solo debut with -R- marks a significant milestone in her career and has a profound impact on the K-pop industry. The release of "On the Ground" and "Gone" showcases her unique artistry and vocal prowess, captivating fans worldwide. This solo venture allows Rosé to step into the spotlight, expressing her individual style while setting new records and raising the bar for solo artists in K-pop.
The success of -R- not only strengthens Rosé's position as a global artist but also contributes to BLACKPINK's growing international recognition. Her achievements pave the way for other K-pop group members to pursue solo careers, demonstrating the potential to achieve success independently while maintaining their group identity. As Rosé continues to evolve as an artist, her solo work adds depth to her musical journey and offers fans a more personal connection to her artistry.
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