15 Behind-the-Scenes Stories from Every Track on Jennie's Solo Album Ruby

Jennie's solo album "Ruby" has shattered records, selling over 1 million copies worldwide in its first week and becoming the highest-selling release by a K-pop female solo artist in 2025.

The 15-track album, released on March 7, 2025, marks Jennie's first project after leaving YG Entertainment. Notable collaborations include global superstars Dua Lipa, Childish Gambino, and Kali Uchis, while production credits feature industry heavyweights like Mike Will Made-It and Diplo. The album's themes explore love, rebirth, and self-realization, drawing inspiration from Shakespeare's "As You Like It."

From intimate theater performances in Los Angeles and New York to the chart-topping success of "Mantra," each track on Ruby tells its own unique story. Here's an exclusive look at the creative process behind every song on this groundbreaking album.

Like Jennie - Crafting the Ultimate Self-Empowerment Anthem

"Like Jennie" stands as a bold declaration of individuality on Jennie Ruby Jane's debut project. At just over two minutes long, this track serves as the album's mission statement, blending electronic maelstrom with touches of Brazilian funk to create an unapologetic anthem of self-empowerment.

Working with Diplo and Tayla Parx

The track's distinctive sound emerged through a powerhouse collaboration. Co-produced by Diplo and co-written by Jennie alongside Zico (whom she previously collaborated with on "Spot!" in 2024), the song showcases a unique "metallic beat that hybridizes baile funk and phonk". This production team created a hip-hop framework that specifically highlights Jennie's rapping abilities and fresh artistic approach. The behind-the-scenes collaboration between Jennie, Diplo, Tayla Parx, and Zico created significant buzz among fans, as this creative quartet crafted one of the album's most distinctive tracks.

The Lyrical Evolution

"Like Jennie" evolved into an anthem about influence and originality. The recurring question "Have you ever met JENNIE?" serves as both challenge and invitation to listeners. Throughout the song, Jennie emphasizes her unique position in entertainment, showcasing her ability to stand out in an industry full of imitations. Key lyrics like "Who wanna rock with Jennie? / Keep your hair done, nails done like Jennie / Who else got 'em obsessed like Jennie?" acknowledge her impact on fashion trends while asserting her individuality.

Recording Booth Confessions

Despite the song's confident exterior, Jennie revealed a deeper intention behind its creation. "With this song, I don't think I'm necessarily saying, like, you like me or you wanna be me," she confessed. "I wanted this to be a confidence boost for people and to just have fun, really. That's the message there. Love yourself and, you know, have fun in life". The music video shoot proved challenging - Jennie described it as "probably the longest shoot I've ever had to do in my life but I think it'll be worth it". Indeed, upon the album's March 7, 2025 release, "Like Jennie" became an immediate commercial success, reaching number one in Hong Kong and Malaysia, number three on the Circle Digital Chart, and numbers three and five on the Billboard Global charts.

Start a War - The Unexpected Production Challenges

Standing in stark contrast to the energetic tracks preceding it, "Start a War" showcases Jennie Ruby Jane's more introspective side while revealing the production challenges behind its creation.

The Song That Almost Didn't Make the Album

The third track on Jennie's solo album marks a significant departure from her usual upbeat, aggressive style. This mellow, slow-paced song initially struggled to find its place on Ruby. Straying into new territory with its intimate sound, the track nearly missed inclusion due to its dramatic tonal shift. As Jennie worked to establish her independent label Odd Atelier and build a creative network in Los Angeles, "Start a War" represented a risk – a softer, more vulnerable sound that might not resonate with fans expecting her signature confidence.

Jennie's Vocal Experimentation

On this track, Jennie demonstrates remarkable artistic growth through vocal techniques previously unexplored in her career. Her approach draws comparisons to SZA, with ethereal, almost haunting delivery weaving through the production. The layering of her own voice in gang vocals creates an emotional atmosphere that amplifies themes of protection and loyalty. Additionally, her soft falsetto in the chorus represents one of her most vocally impressive moments on the album. This experimentation allowed Jennie to showcase a deeper emotional range than previously displayed.

Last-Minute Production Changes

The final version of "Start a War" underwent significant adjustments before landing on the album. The production evolved into a minimalist yet rich arrangement featuring slow R&B percussion and subtle electric guitar. Consequently, the brassy instrumental elements with dark undertones complement the song's lyrical weight. Although critics noted the track "lacks a true climax," this deliberate restraint serves the emotional intimacy of the song. In performance, Jennie transformed the song with "an elaborate production: floor-to-ceiling LED screens, a full live band and at least 10 dancers choreographed by Charm La'Donna", demonstrating how the studio version evolved into something even more powerful on stage.

Handlebars (feat. Dua Lipa) - When Two Pop Icons Collide

The dreamy collaboration "Handlebars" unites Jennie Ruby Jane with British pop icon Dua Lipa, marking one of the most anticipated tracks on Ruby. This bouncy, intoxicating song captures the carefree vulnerability of falling too quickly in love.

How the Dua Lipa Collaboration Came Together

The partnership between these pop powerhouses wasn't their first encounter. In fact, the duo previously worked together on BLACKPINK's 2017 hit "Kiss and Make Up," establishing a foundation for their musical chemistry. Their connection deepened when Jennie appeared as a guest on Dua Lipa's podcast "At Your Service" in July 2023, where she openly discussed experiencing burnout during BLACKPINK's early days due to the heavy volume of rap music she was recording. As Jennie explained to Capital FM, "Working with Dua is always a pleasure. I've known her for the longest time... it doesn't even feel like work, it's more like hanging out with a friend." This comfortable rapport between the artists undoubtedly contributed to the track's effortless vibe.

Remote Recording Across Continents

Creating "Handlebars" required coordination across different time zones and locations. Throughout the production process, Jennie was primarily based in Los Angeles, where she recorded "99%" of her solo album. Meanwhile, Dua was juggling her own packed schedule following the release of her third album "Radical Optimism" and performing headline sets at major festivals worldwide, including Glastonbury 2024. Nevertheless, the artists overcame logistical challenges to craft a track that seamlessly blends their distinctive vocal styles. On the mid-tempo tune, they take turns delivering confessional lyrics about love's intoxicating nature: "I trip and fall in love / Just like a Tuesday drunk."

The Music Video Concept Development

The visually striking music video, directed by BRTHR (who has previously worked with Charli XCX and The Weeknd), dropped on March 10, 2025. The dreamy visual creates a psychedelic wonderland where both artists fall under love's spell. Key elements include:

Jennie lying on a circular bed surrounded by TV screens, evoking a futuristic aesthetic
A rain-soaked alleyway where Jennie freezes droplets with a snap of her fingers
Both singers lounging on a sparkling, heart-shaped spider web symbolizing entanglement in desire

Behind-the-scenes photos shared on Instagram showed their genuine friendship, with Jennie captioning her post "it was about time" while tagging Dua Lipa. The most captivating visual moment occurs when each woman shoots streams of shimmering water from their eyes, forming a floating, fiery disco ball heart when the rivulets collide – a perfect metaphor for their artistic collaboration.

With the IE (Way Up) - Sampling Jennifer Lopez's Iconic Track

Track five of Jennie Ruby Jane's debut collection takes listeners on a nostalgic journey by cleverly reimagining one of pop culture's most recognizable songs. "With the IE (Way Up)" pays homage to Jennifer Lopez's iconic 2002 hit "Jenny from the Block" while establishing Jennie's own artistic identity.

Securing the 'Jenny from the Block' Sample

The fifth track on Jennie's solo album samples the chorus of J.Lo's "Jenny from the Block," which originally appeared on Lopez's third studio album, This Is Me... Then. Sampling is a time-honored tradition in music, where artists incorporate elements from existing songs to create something fresh and contemporary. "With the IE (Way Up)" cleverly flips the classic Y2K concept, modernizing it with Jennie's distinctive touch. Moreover, the song demonstrates how artists can showcase their creative freedom while honoring influential works that preceded them.

Dem Jointz's Production Magic

Award-winning producer Dem Jointz crafted the track's unique sound, blending old-school hip-hop vibes with Y2K R&B influences. His production incorporates the distinctive flute loop that fans of "Jenny from the Block" would immediately recognize. According to music databases, the track actually samples Enoch Light's "Hi-Jack" from 1975, which was also sampled in the original J.Lo song. In essence, Dem Jointz created a musical connection across generations, linking three different eras through one cohesive track. His production maintains the song's resilient message while giving it a contemporary sonic landscape that fits perfectly within Ruby's overall sound.

Jennie's Personal Connection to J.Lo

The title "With the IE" reveals Jennie's clever wordplay – directly referencing how her name is spelled with "IE" instead of "Y" like in "Jenny." This subtle distinction highlights how Jennie puts her own identity on the track while creating a connection between the two artists. Similarly to Lopez, who rose to fame through both music and acting, Jennie has established herself as a multi-faceted performer in the global entertainment industry. The song's themes of overcoming adversity and maintaining self-confidence regardless of criticism echo J.Lo's original message about staying true to one's roots despite achieving success. Through this track, Jennie joins the lineage of artists like Gwen Stefani and Fergie who have created songs following the thematic blueprint established by "Jenny from the Block."

ExtraL (feat. Doechii) - A Female Empowerment Collaboration

Track six of Ruby showcases a powerful union between Jennie and Grammy-winning rapper Doechii. Released through ODDATELIER/Columbia Records, "ExtraL" stands as a commanding anthem celebrating female empowerment with its thumping, festival-ready beat.

First Meeting with Doechii

The seed for this collaboration was planted at Camp Flog Gnaw in 2024, where the two artists first connected backstage. Jennie snapped a picture with Doechii during the festival weekend while performing as a special guest during Matt Champion's set. In subsequent interviews, Jennie revealed she had been "manifesting" working with Doechii "for the longest time," describing the Tampa-born rapper as "too great". This admiration wasn't one-sided, given that both artists were at similar career stages—Jennie having recently established her label Odd Atelier and Grammy-winning Doechii making her mark in the industry.

The Rapid-Fire Recording Session

The music video shoot occurred just two days after Doechii won her first Grammy, creating a celebratory atmosphere on set. Jennie prioritized making her collaborator comfortable, stating, "I wanted to give her great energy and just congratulate her, let her have fun. I didn't want her to feel like it was work that day". This mutual respect allowed them to complete filming quickly and efficiently. "Doechii is such a humble sweetheart," Jennie noted, "I wanted to make sure her day wasn't any difficult because of me. We both felt that way".

Creating the Track's Unique Sound Structure

Produced by Dem Jointz, "ExtraL" features a bass-heavy, hip-hop-infused beat with Jersey club influences. The song's infectious hook—"Do my ladies run this?"—establishes it as an anthem of empowerment. Lyrically, both artists showcase their confident delivery with lines like Jennie's "Said, 'Fuck your rules,' is the mood, damn right" and Doechii's "In the boardroom looking bored 'cause I'm not here for pleasin' the men".

The Cole Bennett-directed music video presents both artists in chic workwear, dancing and posing against each other "as two halves of a more powerful whole". Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable—Jennie recounted, "Doechii and I had great chemistry; we both knew what we had to do in each set". Throughout the video, slow-motion acting sequences showcased their natural rapport, with Jennie remarking they were "just having so much fun with it".

Mantra - The Lead Single's Evolution

"Mantra" marked a pivotal moment in Jennie Ruby Jane's career as the lead single from her debut album Ruby. Released on October 11, 2024, through ODDATELIER and Columbia Records, this empowering dance-pop track showcased her evolution as a solo artist.

Why 'Mantra' Was Chosen as the Lead Single

First of all, the track represented Jennie's artistic rebirth after establishing her own label. "It's the perfect song to begin my new era," Jennie stated about the selection. The song's confident energy and infectious beat made it an ideal introduction to her new musical direction. Nicole Kim, Columbia's VP of A&R, explained that "Mantra" "was a good start for her because it [showed the] things people still expect from Jennie — she's dancing and she's singing and rapping at the same time". This strategic choice paid off when the song peaked at numbers 2 and 3 on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. and Billboard Global 200 charts, respectively.

The Multiple Versions Before the Final Cut

Throughout the creative process, Jennie faced significant challenges finding her sound. "I struggled a lot in the beginning," she admitted, describing "a few months... just throwing myself out there, walking into rooms filled with new people". This period of exploration involved constantly questioning "Is this it?" until eventually discovering the right collaborators. The final version emerged after multiple iterations, with songwriters from management company Electric Feel, including Billy Walsh, Jumpa, and Claudia Valentina contributing to its evolution.

El Guincho's Production Influence

Spanish producer El Guincho, known for his work with Rosalía and Camila Cabello, shaped the track's distinctive sound. His expertise brought "infectious synth lines and a pulsing disco bassline" to the production, creating what critics described as a "big, bright pop song with a digital disco bassline". His signature blend of electronic and percussive elements gave "Mantra" its unique texture while complementing Jennie's vocal style.

The 'Pretty Girl Mantra' Origin Story

Interestingly, the song's concept developed from Jennie's experiences recording in Los Angeles. "It was inspired by my time recording in Los Angeles and hopefully fans feel that energy — which is about being positive, being expressive, and being true to who you are," she explained. The recurring "pretty girl mantra" theme celebrates self-love and empowerment. As Jennie told Capital FM, elements like the pajama reference came naturally: "When we were writing the song, as I was going into studio everyday I would just show up in my pyjamas so it was pretty natural to say something like that in my song".

Love Hangover (feat. Dominic Fike) - An Unexpected Musical Pairing

Released on January 31, 2025, "Love Hangover" brings together the contrasting styles of Jennie and American artist Dominic Fike on Ruby's eighth track. This synth-heavy, trippy pop song metaphorically compares toxic relationships to getting spectacularly drunk, enduring the hangover, yet inevitably returning for more.

How Dominic Fike Joined the Project

The collaboration emerged through careful artist selection to complement the track's theme about breaking free from a connection that refuses to let go. With Jennie having relocated her recording process to Los Angeles, she found herself "throwing myself out there, walking into rooms filled with new people" until discovering the right creative partnerships. Dominic Fike's raw, laid-back rap style offered the perfect contrast to Jennie's ethereal vocals. His second-verse contribution adds a unique flavor and a different perspective to the emotional chaos, creating what critics described as "dynamic balance that elevates the song".

The Playful Music Video Concept

Directed by Bradley & Pablo (known for their work with Harry Styles and Lil Nas X) and filmed in Mexico City, the music video takes a comedic approach to heartbreak. Starring Charles Melton (Riverdale, May December) as Jennie's love interest, the visual presents a series of disastrous dates where Jennie repeatedly dies yet returns for more punishment. These include being:

Sucked into bowling pins at a bowling alley
Flung from a carousel (requiring Jennie to be suspended on wires for two hours in freezing temperatures)
Attacked by a monster at a drive-in theater
Choking on a martini olive during dinner

Jennie explained the concept on YouTube show Hyell's Club: "Each time I go out on a date, I keep dying when I fall in love... knowing that I'll get hurt and that it will be tough, but why do I fall in love again and get drunk with that love?"

Jennie's Co-Production Experience

Beyond performing, Jennie co-produced "Love Hangover" alongside Ido Zmishlany, a former band frontman who has worked with Shawn Mendes and the Jonas Brothers. Her production involvement demonstrates her growing artistic control after establishing Odd Atelier, her own label. The track features a hypnotic, looping outro with "back, back, ba-ba-back", symbolizing the relationship that refuses to end. Furthermore, the song credits an extensive writing team including Jennie, Fike, Zmishlany, Bülow, Blaise Railey, Carly Gibert, and Devin Workman, suggesting a collaborative approach to capturing the universal experience of toxic attraction.

ZEN - Finding Balance Amid Chaos

Track nine on Jennie Ruby Jane's debut album delves deep into Eastern philosophy through "ZEN," a powerful meditation on self-possession and inner strength. Released as part of her solo album on March 7, 2025, this track stands as a spiritual centerpiece within the collection.

The Spiritual Journey Behind the Lyrics

The title "ZEN" (禪) draws directly from Buddhist meditation principles, emphasizing living in the present and finding balance amid chaos. Throughout the song, Jennie delivers lyrics that function less like gentle mindfulness and more like a warrior's mantra. When she declares, "Nobody gon' move my soul, gon' move my aura, my matter," she's not merely expressing being unbothered—she's claiming immovability. Furthermore, the clever wordplay "Money can't buy sixth sense" acknowledges her material success while emphasizing that true power comes from within. This spiritual foundation connects to Jennie's Korean heritage, creating a bridge between traditional concepts and contemporary expression.

Creating the Track's Meditative Elements

Musically, "ZEN" opens with a slow, mellow introduction that establishes a meditative foundation before transitioning into more assertive elements. The production blends tribal beats with modern pop textures, creating what one reviewer called "a dynamic soundscape that feels meditative and intense at the same time, much like the concept of zen itself—balanced yet powerful". Likewise, the percussion alternates between minimalist strikes and explosive moments, mirroring the song's thematic tension between chaos and calm. Above all, her autotuned vocals carry a distinctive grit that adds texture to the celestial visuals—a clever production choice that grounds the supernatural elements in something raw and tangible.

The Visual Concept Development

For the music video, Jennie collaborated with visual effects editor Anurag Raj, whose team focused on "creating a visual aesthetic matching Jennie's artistic vision, blending surreal and earth elements with striking cinematic visuals". The team developed different characters for each set through extensive meetings where "everyone put their thoughts into how all the sets and the music and the visuals could be flowing at the same time". In essence, the striking imagery includes Jennie commanding the elements, summoning rain with casual authority, symbolizing her transcendence beyond conventional pop star status. Other powerful symbols include the owl (representing spiritual growth), lotus (signifying purity and awakening), and her emergence with wings (signifying rebirth). Henceforth, the video established "ZEN" as not just a song but a complete audiovisual experience of finding strength through balance.

Damn Right (feat. Childish Gambino & Kali Uchis) - Triple Threat Collaboration

Bringing together three distinct musical voices, "Damn Right" emerges as one of Ruby's most ambitious collaborative efforts. This chill R&B track showcases a perfect balance between Jennie's confident delivery, Childish Gambino's smooth verses, and Kali Uchis' sultry vocals.

Securing Childish Gambino for the Track

Acquiring Childish Gambino (Donald Glover) for Jennie Ruby Jane's debut album represented a significant achievement for the project. As both a Grammy-winning musician and acclaimed actor, Gambino brought valuable cross-industry appeal to the collaboration. Primarily, his contribution provides the male perspective on the track, "highlighting the elegance and uniqueness" of the person being addressed in the lyrics. Throughout the song's development, his artistic input helped shape what would become one of the album's standout collaborations, with his distinctive vocal style complementing Jennie's delivery.

Kali Uchis' Remote Recording Process

Colombian-American singer Kali Uchis joined the project, adding her signature sultry R&B vocals. She worked alongside Jennie to craft lyrics about "impressing someone and making them fall for you," creating a feminine perspective that balances Gambino's contributions. Whenever Kali appears on the track, her verses flow seamlessly with Jennie's parts, showcasing their musical chemistry despite recording separately. Subsequently, her involvement cemented the song's position as a true "triple threat" collaboration.

Mike Will Made-It's Production Approach

Legendary producer Mike Will Made-It helmed the production alongside 30 Roc and Truebeatzz, crafting the track's distinctive sound. Their production expertise created what critics described as a "chill R&B bop" that perfectly suited all three artists. First, they established a smooth beat allowing each vocalist to shine. Second, they incorporated subtle production elements enhancing the song's romantic atmosphere. Third, they maintained a cohesive sound despite working with three distinct vocal styles.

Coordinating Three Major Artists

The writing team for "Damn Right" included all three performing artists plus additional songwriters Bibi Bourelly, Truebeatzz, 30 Roc, Ari PenSmith, and Mike Will Made-It. Coordinating schedules between these high-profile artists presented unique challenges, requiring careful planning to ensure each performer delivered their best work. Though complex, this collaboration resulted in one of jennie solo album's most impressive tracks, showcasing her ability to hold her own alongside established global stars.

F.T.S. - Jennie's Most Rebellious Track

The eleventh track on jennie solo album stands as a defiant declaration of independence unlike anything fans had heard before. "F.T.S." — which stands for both "Fuck that shit" and "Flip the script" — showcases a raw, unfiltered side of Jennie Ruby Jane that surprised both listeners and her production team.

The Bold Lyrical Statement

"F.T.S." emerged as an anthem for personal liberation, with explicitly rebellious lyrics reflecting Jennie's determination to break free from constraints. "Maybe it's time to take a leap of faith and come to my senses and take my shirt off in the rain," she sings, establishing the song's unapologetic tone. The pre-chorus poses a thought-provoking question: "Whatever happened to freedom and honesty?", thereafter shifting to the bold refrain of "Fuck that shit, ah yeah / Flip the script, ah yeah". Interestingly, this dual meaning adds depth to the track's message—simultaneously rejecting negativity while embracing narrative control.

Production Challenges and Solutions

Creating the track's raw sound required extensive experimentation. "I wrote this song with Bibi and Carly," Jennie revealed about the collaborative process. The production team faced the challenge of capturing authentic emotion, ultimately deciding to layer "tracks and tracks of our vocals just screaming our hearts out saying 'fuck that shit'". First, they recorded individual vocal takes; second, they combined these layers to create a wall of sound; third, they balanced this intensity with more melodic elements, resulting in what critics called "an unforgettable track that resonates on both a personal and universal level".

The Track That Surprised Her Team

"I think the title of the song just says it all," Jennie explained. "This one's for letting go of all the drama and toxic energy". The track markedly differs from her earlier work with BLACKPINK, presenting what Billboard described as "a declaration of independence wrapped in explosive production". Throughout the song, each line "drips with attitude" as she delivers a "rallying cry to upend conventional industry expectations". For instance, lyrics like "I'm in love, you're on game / Switchin' up, switchin' lanes" reflect a newfound confidence in confronting relationship dynamics.

Filter - A Response to Social Media Pressure

Among the most personally revealing tracks on Jennie's solo album, "Filter" confronts the reality of curated perfection in today's digital landscape. Produced by Dem Jointz, this candid diary-like track calls out those who mask their true selves behind digital enhancements.

The Real-Life Experiences That Inspired the Lyrics

With over 86 million Instagram followers, Jennie's relationship with social media directly influenced this song's creation. Primarily, the track emerged from her own experiences navigating beauty standards in the public eye. Unlike many celebrities, Jennie frequently uploads raw, unfiltered photos to her personal Instagram, showing skin texture, uneven makeup, and natural features. This authenticity, considered part of her "unique charm" by fans, mirrors the song's central message. Throughout her career, she's maintained this approach, inspiring followers to embrace self-acceptance rather than digital perfection.

Dem Jointz's Unique Production Choices

Acclaimed producer Dem Jointz, known for his work with major K-pop acts like EXO, NCT 127, and Aespa, crafted one of the album's most exciting productions for "Filter". His distinctive style brings depth to the track, balancing biting lyrics with compelling musical elements. In contrast to his usual production signatures—like the "Incoming!" tag heard on Kanye West's "Nah Nah Nah"—Dem Jointz took a more subtle approach here, allowing Jennie's powerful message to remain the focal point.

Recording the Raw Vocal Takes

During recording sessions, Jennie delivered vocals described as "angelic" yet powerful. The emotional authenticity in lines like "I woke up like this, feeling like a weight just lifted/ I don't know what it is, but I swear to God I love this s–t" showcases her commitment to the song's message. The most impactful moment comes in the chorus where she confidently commands, "Look in the mirror, there ain't nothing clearer/ So, take off your filter, b—h". Essentially, these raw vocal takes emphasize the liberation found in removing metaphorical filters, creating what critics called "a powerful anthem of self-love, authenticity, and liberation from societal expectations".

Seoul City - A Love Letter to Jennie's Hometown

A dreamy R&B track captures the essence of South Korea's vibrant capital on Ruby's thirteenth track. "Seoul City" stands as a powerful ode to Jennie's birthplace, creating what critics called "a sonically experimental tribute to the South Korean city that shaped her identity".

Blending Korean and Western Musical Elements

The music video for "Seoul City" masterfully combines traditional Korean aesthetics with contemporary production techniques. First of all, the visual depicts "the vibrancy of Seoul nightlife" while still managing to "blend traditional and modern elements to capture the essence of South Korea's capital city". This duality reflects Jennie's own relationship with her homeland—a place where she was born and raised until age eight before moving to New Zealand, only to return later to pursue her K-pop dreams. As a result, the song creates what one publication described as a "nostalgic, yet forward-thinking perspective in pop storytelling".

Mike Will Made-It's Unexpected Influence

Acclaimed producer Mike Will Made-It crafted this track's distinctive sound, creating an unexpected fusion. His signature Atlanta sound meshes surprisingly well with Jennie's "reflective, at times haunting vocals". This collaboration resulted in a song that feels deeply personal yet universally appealing. Through this partnership, Jennie delivers what one reviewer called "an airy, almost weightless quality, making it feel like floating through the night sky". In addition, the production choices perfectly complement the song's lyrical exploration of connection and belonging.

Personal Memories That Shaped the Song

"Seoul City" explores Jennie's complex relationship with her hometown. In an interview with Zane Lowe, she revealed Seoul is where she feels "the most safe and comfortable, yet also strange". This emotional complexity surfaces throughout the track as she creates what one critic called "a song that feels both nostalgic and introspective". The deeply personal nature of the track made it particularly significant during her showcase concert, where she premiered the music video to enthusiastic fan response. Moreover, audiences recognized the song's emotional weight, with one publication noting it "perfectly captures the feeling of a late-night drive through the glowing streets of Seoul".

Starlight - The Cinematic Collaboration with Actor Yeo Jin Goo

"Starlight" emerges as a cinematic journey on Jennie Ruby Jane's solo album, featuring Korean actor Yeo Jin Goo's evocative narration that transforms the track into something far beyond a typical pop song.

How Yeo Jin Goo Became Involved

The renowned Korean actor, known for his roles in popular dramas like "Hotel del Luna," made a surprising appearance at Jennie's exclusive 'Rubify' Spotify listening party in Seoul on February 27, 2025. Alongside artist Zico, Yeo Jin Goo co-hosted the event where Jennie first unveiled the track to an intimate audience. Their professional relationship developed behind the scenes as Jennie sought to create what she described as "a deeply personal song that encapsulates her emotional journey and experiences". Throughout the creative process, she specifically chose Yeo Jin Goo for his ability to deliver emotive spoken word passages that would bookend the track with cinematic gravitas.

Creating the Song's Dramatic Structure

"Starlight" distinguishes itself through its remarkable structural choices. The composition begins as an emotional ballad, creating a contemplative atmosphere. Unexpectedly, the song transitions into a rhythmic, percussion-heavy groove with clapping and snapping elements that give it a "lively, surreal feel". Within this framework, Jennie confronts others' perception of her public image, asking pointed questions like "What about the moments in between?" and "What about the black mystery?". Her lyrics deliberately explore the contrast between her outward "starlight" and inner complexity, as she sings "You said you see the starlight in me/ What about the black mystery?/ What about the moments you don't see?/ It's way deeper than what you think".

The Spoken Word Recording Session

Both the introduction and conclusion of "Starlight" feature Yeo Jin Goo's distinctive narration in Korean. His outro adds profound emotional depth with the line "Like that shining star over there, Isn't it getting closer in my dream?". This poetic statement serves a dual purpose—symbolizing distant aspirations becoming attainable while reinforcing the song's central themes of pursuing dreams. Prior to recording these segments, Jennie reportedly faced "difficult times" that she transformed into artistic growth. The dialogue between Jennie and Yeo Jin Goo about "loving something ethereal" creates a metaphorical framework for the entire song, adding layers of meaning to what might otherwise be a straightforward track about relationships.

Twin - The Most Personal Track on Ruby

Closing out Jennie Ruby Jane's debut project, "Twin" stands as the most intimate revelation on the entire album. This raw, confessional track offers listeners unprecedented access to the artist's inner world and emotional journey.

The Real Relationship That Inspired the Song

First and foremost, "Twin" emerged from genuine personal experience rather than abstract concepts. "That song is a very special song for me, maybe the most personal song," Jennie revealed in an interview with Zane Lowe. The track's deeply reflective nature sparked significant speculation among fans about its inspiration. Much of the evidence points toward a long-term friendship rather than a romantic relationship. The lyrics include references to "ten years in/ And young and dumb and innocent, my friend", suggesting a cherished connection from Jennie's youth. Many fans identified this person as Chahee, a former member of Melody Day who attended Cheongdam Middle School with Jennie. The two were known to be close friends until early 2022, after which their social media interactions ceased. Chahee reportedly even liked comments suggesting the song was about her.

The Emotional Recording Session

The profound personal connection to this track became evident during Jennie's performances. At her LA concert, she visibly struggled through tears while singing "Twin," pausing several times but ultimately completing the emotional performance. By all accounts, the song served as a form of emotional release. "I think being truthful on that song gave me a conclusion, a clear thought on how I felt on that relationship," Jennie explained. Through the writing and recording process, she found the resolution she had been seeking. "There you go, that says it all. I'm writing my letter to you," she added, directly addressing the person who inspired the track.

Why It Became the Album Closer

Placing "Twin" as the final track on jennie solo album was a deliberate artistic choice. As a track formatted "like a letter to a detrimental past relationship", it serves as a fitting conclusion to an album that charts Jennie's journey of artistic independence. The song's position creates what critics called "a closer look at Jennie in a way they've never seen before". Coupled with its raw vulnerability, the track represents the culmination of Jennie's creative process throughout Ruby. By the time listeners reach this final confession, they've witnessed her full artistic evolution. After all, the song's universal themes of connection, loss, and hope for reconciliation—"We will make up, make things right when we get older, friend"—provide an emotionally resonant conclusion to her debut statement as a solo artist.