On The Ground (Album -R-) by ROSÉ
Rosé Solo: BLACKPINK Star's Debut Single Album -R- Release
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.
"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 Making of -R-: From Concept to Release
Initial Announcements
YG Entertainment revealed Rosé's solo debut plans, announcing that she had completed filming for her music video in mid-January 2021. The agency described the production as large-scale, with an unprecedented budget. Rosé personally requested to perform her new song at BLACKPINK's upcoming online concert "THE SHOW" on January 31.
Production Timeline
The production of -R- involved meticulous planning and execution. YG Entertainment focused on ensuring high-quality content, which resulted in some delays. The agency worked on finishing touches for the music video, emphasizing perfection in every aspect.
Marketing Strategy
YG Entertainment employed a strategic marketing approach for Rosé's solo debut. They used teaser videos on YouTube and Instagram to build anticipation. The agency released minimal information, creating buzz and curiosity among fans. This approach aligns with K-pop marketing tactics, which often involve gap marketing and strategic use of social media platforms to engage fans globally.
Rosé's Musical Evolution
Pre-debut Background
Rosé's musical journey began in her childhood, where she developed a passion for singing and participated in her church choir. Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, she attended Canterbury Girls' Secondary College in Melbourne. In 2012, Rosé's father discovered YG Entertainment's auditions in Sydney and encouraged her to participate. Despite initial hesitation, she ranked first among 700 participants and became a trainee at YG Entertainment on the same day.
BLACKPINK Experiences
After four years of training, Rosé debuted as the main vocalist and lead dancer of BLACKPINK on August 8, 2016. The group's debut single album, "Square One," featured chart-topping tracks like "Whistle" and "Boombayah". Rosé's unique vocal color and style quickly gained recognition, leading to appearances on various broadcast programs such as "King of Masked Singer" and "Fantastic Duo".
Solo Style Development
Rosé's solo career began with her debut single album "R" on March 12, 2021. The album showcased her individual artistry, featuring all-English lyrics and a sound distinct from BLACKPINK's. Her title track "On the Ground" broke records, becoming the most viewed YouTube music video by a solo K-pop artist in 24 hours. Rosé's solo work allowed her to explore a different side of her artistry, demonstrating versatility and potential for continued success in her individual career.
Analyzing 'On the Ground'
"On the Ground" is an electropop and pop rock song with synth-pop elements and an EDM-inspired beat, complemented by a simple guitar. The track features wispy, melodic verses accompanied by breathy vocals, a chorus with a dance-pop punch, an angelic bridge, and Rosé's high note at the end.
Song Structure
The song's structure follows a typical pop format, with verses, choruses, and a bridge. It has a BPM of 97, making it a mid-tempo track that allows Rosé to showcase her vocal range and emotional delivery.
Vocal Techniques
Rosé employs various vocal techniques throughout the song. She uses a lighter head voice for more delicate moments and transitions to chest voice for powerful sections. The track also features curbing, a vocal technique that allows for a balanced sound between soft and loud singing.
Lyrical Themes
The lyrics reflect on Rosé's life as a global K-pop superstar, realizing that what truly matters lies within herself. Rosé explained, "The song is about looking for answers in life, for a purpose in life... everything we need is already within us".
The Significance of 'Gone'
Composition Details
"Gone" is a simple yet powerful ballad that showcases Rosé's vocal talents. The song features a minimal arrangement centered on guitar, allowing Rosé's appealing voice to shine. This restrained composition emphasizes the emotional storytelling of the lyrics. The track gives Rosé the opportunity to flex her vocal range, with a lower-toned pre-chorus leading into a higher refrain.
Emotional Depth
The song explores the aftermath of a relationship ending, conveying a sense of loss, longing, and the struggle to move on. Rosé's emotive vocals reflect the vulnerability of the track, making it heartfelt and soulful. The lyrics delve into complex feelings, with lines like "You broke my heart just for fun" and "Now it's 8 in the morning, Hate in the morning".
Fan Interpretations
Fans have resonated with the song's relatable themes and Rosé's sincere delivery. Many interpret "Gone" as a reflection on unrequited love and coping with betrayal. The song's success is evident in its streaming numbers, with over 100 million streams on Spotify, making it the third most streamed song released in 2021 by a Korean act.
Visual Aesthetics of -R-
Album Artwork
The album artwork for -R- features striking, conceptual designs that complement the musical themes and moods of the recordings. This visual approach aligns with Rosé's evolving style, which has become more minimalistic and edgy over time.
Fashion Choices
Rosé's fashion identity has evolved significantly, especially since becoming YSL's global ambassador in June 2020. Her signature look now consists of form-fitting black outfits that contrast with her strawberry-blonde hair. Day-to-day, she opts for classic garments in darker, muted tones with dainty, figure-skimming cuts that emphasize her feminine charm. Occasionally, Rosé experiments with layering and mixing styles, such as wearing midi dresses over jeans.
Music Video Concepts
The music video for "On The Ground" perfectly encapsulates Rosé's fashion identity and journey. It features a blend of girly details and edgier looks, reflecting her evolution from a soft, sweet aesthetic to a rock 'n' roll edge influenced by Saint Laurent. The video concepts are innovative and thought-provoking, creating cinematic visual narratives that enhance the listening experience.
Rosé's Promotional Activities
TV Appearances
Rosé has participated in various promotional events for BLACKPINK's releases. She appeared on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" to promote their album "Born Pink". The group also engaged in radio shows during their U.S. promotions, with Rosé noting, "It's been a while since we've been on a U.S. radio show".
Social Media Engagement
Rosé's social media presence is significant, with 73.9 million Instagram followers and 6.82 million YouTube subscribers. She leverages these platforms to connect with fans and promote her work. Her popularity has led to successful brand collaborations, such as the Rosé x Tiffany Hardwear campaign, which doubled Tiffany & Co.'s sales since she became their ambassador in 2021.
Fan Events
BLACKPINK organizes special events for fans, like the upcoming "OUR AREA WITH BLINK" fan signing event to celebrate their 8th debut anniversary. Only 88 lucky BLINKs will be selected to participate, based on fan submissions such as letters, photos, and artwork.
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 has generated mixed reactions from critics and fans. Some reviewers found "On the Ground" underwhelming, describing it as "beige" and lacking emotion. However, others appreciated Rosé's unique vocal color and potential as a soloist. Despite the criticism, many believe Rosé's solo has a good chance of surpassing Jennie's success due to BLACKPINK's expanded fanbase since 2018. The mini-album format and reduced likelihood of facing hate are seen as potential advantages. Ultimately, Rosé's solo debut marks a significant milestone in her career, showcasing her artistic growth and experimentation with different musical styles.
Post a Comment