Standout Songs from Jennie's Album 'RUBY' That Made History in 2025

Jennie's album "Ruby" shattered records by selling over one million copies worldwide in its first week, marking a historic milestone in K-pop history. Released on March 7, 2025, this 15-track masterpiece showcases her artistic evolution after departing from YG Entertainment.

The album's success speaks through numbers, reaching top ten positions in 19 countries and setting a new benchmark with 660,000 first-week sales in South Korea. "Ruby" features an impressive lineup of global artists, including Dua Lipa, Childish Gambino, and Kali Uchis, while blending pop, hip-hop, and R&B elements. The lead single "Mantra" and title track "Like Jennie" both claimed spots in Billboard Global 200's top five, proving Jennie's commanding presence in the global music scene.

From its chart-topping performance to critical acclaim with a Metacritic score of 74, "Ruby" stands as a testament to Jennie's artistic versatility. Let's explore the 15 standout tracks that made this album a defining moment in 2025's musical landscape.

"Like Jennie": The Anthem That Defined Self-Confidence

"Like Jennie" stands as a defiant sonic declaration on Ruby, serving as the album's mission statement. At just over two minutes, this track packs an assertive punch that established Jennie's confidence and individuality in the K-pop landscape.

The Story Behind Jennie's Bold Declaration

The essence of "Like Jennie" lies in its unapologetic celebration of Jennie's distinct persona. Through lyrics like "Who wanna rock with Jennie?" and "Special edition and your AI couldn't copy," she acknowledges her cultural impact while asserting her uniqueness. This isn't merely a song—it's a bold statement of self-worth that resonates with listeners. Rather than taking a modest approach, Jennie embraces her influence with playful confidence, creating what critics describe as "a deliciously cocky anthem that's equal parts empowerment and provocation".

Production Brilliance with Diplo and Tayla Parx

Behind the track's magnetic sound stands an impressive creative team. Co-produced by Diplo and co-written by Jennie alongside Zico (whom she previously collaborated with in 2024), the song features a "metallic beat that hybridizes baile funk and phonk". The production delivers an electronic maelstrom with Brazilian funk influences, creating an instrumental experience that's "unyielding in its desire to smash you in the face at every turn". Notably, this powerful backdrop provides the perfect canvas for Jennie's sharp, assertive rapping skills to shine.

Cultural Impact and Social Media Phenomenon

The song quickly generated massive cultural ripples. According to behind-the-scenes footage, the music video represented "probably the longest shoot I've ever had to do in my life". Directed by Hanbago (Han Gyeol Lee), the video culminates with Jennie transforming into a capybara—a symbolic rebirth that sparked widespread discussion. Furthermore, "Like Jennie" inspired numerous TikTok dance challenges and social media trends, extending its influence beyond traditional music platforms.

How "Like Jennie" Redefined K-Pop Narratives

"Like Jennie" fundamentally challenges conventional K-pop approaches. Instead of presenting a tentative introduction, the track delivers "a sonic statement shouting loud and clear that Jennie is fully in control of her creative identity". Her collaboration with industry giants underscores her artistic ambition, offering listeners a taste of her uncompromising vision. Consequently, the song cemented Jennie's position not just as an idol but as a cultural force capable of reshaping musical narratives through bold artistic choices.

"Start a War": The Dark Horse of Ruby

"Start a War" emerges as the unexpected gem on Ruby, providing a darker, more contemplative energy that balances the album's more upbeat moments. Positioned as the third track, this slow-burning anthem showcases Jennie's willingness to explore emotional depths beyond the confident swagger found elsewhere on the record.

Rihanna's Influence on Jennie's Artistic Direction

Rihanna stands as one of the few artists who genuinely make Jennie starstruck, a fact reflected throughout Ruby. Primarily, this influence manifests in "Start a War" through what critics call "Ri's versatile bravado," especially evident in the growling chorus that echoes Rihanna's signature blend of vulnerability and strength. Beyond mere admiration, Jennie channels Rihanna's willingness to experiment with darker sonic textures while maintaining pop accessibility.

The Song's Placement as a Momentum Shifter

Strategically positioned after the energetic "Like Jennie," this track deliberately disrupts the album's initial momentum. However, this calculated placement serves a greater purpose—providing a necessary emotional counterpoint that enhances the album's overall narrative arc. The slowed tempo and introspective tone create a moment of reflection before the album returns to more upbeat territory.

Production Elements That Create Tension

The production team—including Jonas Jeberg, Sam Homaee, and Rasmus Søegren—crafts a tense atmosphere through minimal yet effective instrumentation. Jelli Dorman and Kuk Harrell's contributions to background vocals and vocal engineering respectively add layers of emotional complexity. Throughout the track, the "gentle bass amplifies vulnerability", creating a soundscape that perfectly complements the lyrical content.

How "Start a War" Showcases Jennie's Artistic Risk-Taking

Through lines like "I start a war, no white flags up," Jennie demonstrates her artistic fearlessness. This willingness to explore darker, more aggressive sounds underscores her artistic evolution. Ultimately, "Start a War" represents Jennie at her most experimental—willing to challenge listener expectations while maintaining her distinctive musical identity. This artistic risk-taking establishes her not merely as a performer but as a genuine musical force unafraid of creative exploration.

"With the IE (Way Up)": Challenging Industry Double Standards

Sampling Jennifer Lopez's iconic "Jenny from the Block," "With the IE (Way Up)" emerges as a bold statement piece on Ruby where Jennie directly confronts industry hypocrisy and double standards. The track's title cleverly references the spelling of her name, creating an immediate connection to her identity while reclaiming her narrative.

Analyzing the Bold Lyrics About Industry Criticism

The lyrics function as Jennie's direct response to public scrutiny she's faced throughout her career. Lines like "Straight line's a hate crime" metaphorically address how deviation from rigid norms often results in harsh criticism. As she declares "Target on my name, but your aim's way off," Jennie highlights the hypocrisy of critics whose perspectives are fundamentally flawed. Henceforth, through phrases like "sea of judgment" and describing herself as a "villain in a scary coat," she articulates how she's often unfairly perceived for simply being different.

Dem Jointz's 2000s R&B-Inspired Production

The track's production comes courtesy of Dem Jointz, who began making significant waves in K-pop with Red Velvet's "Don't U Wait No More" before collaborating with major acts like EXO, NCT 127, and Aespa. His signature layering technique, described as "adding layers and textures... that are very unique," perfectly complements the song's nostalgic yet contemporary feel. This approach creates what critics call an "old-school hip-hop influence" that enhances the track's defiant message.

References to Jennifer Lopez and Y2K Pop

"With the IE (Way Up)" intentionally echoes Y2K aesthetics, creating what fans describe as feeling "like strolling through New York, listening to my ipod while wearing low waist jeans and a Juicy Couture sweater". Primarily, the song samples Jennifer Lopez's signature flute melody from "Jenny from the Block," transforming J.Lo's message of staying grounded into one of sharp defiance and resilience.

How the Song Addresses Jennie's Public Scrutiny

The track directly responds to Jennie's experiences with intense public criticism, including recent controversies surrounding her vaping indoors. Her public apology stating "What can I do? If Korean people think it's wrong, I've got to make up for it" contrasts with the song's defiant tone, revealing the complex balancing act between personal freedom and public expectations. Ultimately, "With the IE (Way Up)" represents Jennie's artistic response to the "constant scrutiny that comes with being a powerful figure in the K-pop industry".

"ExtraL" (feat. Doechii): A Female Empowerment Masterpiece

On "ExtraL," Jennie joins forces with Grammy-winning rapper Doechii to create a bold declaration of female power. The second pre-release from Ruby showcases both artists at their most confident, delivering an anthem that quickly became a cultural touchstone.

Breaking Industry Barriers with Doechii

The collaboration unites two powerhouses from different musical worlds—K-pop superstar Jennie and Doechii, fresh off her 2025 Grammy win for Best Rap Album. This cross-genre partnership represents a significant milestone for both artists. During an interview with Hits Radio, Jennie revealed the thoughtful process behind this pairing: "I knew what I wanted, so I've been manifesting it for the longest time... I really just had to break through that wall and find myself before I got into the studio with any other artist". Their chemistry proved undeniable, with Cole Bennett directing the accompanying music video featuring the duo in matching ivory suits with striking red accents.

Lyrical Analysis of Female Independence

"ExtraL" centers on unapologetic female autonomy. The infectious chorus poses a rhetorical question—"Do my, do my ladies run this?"—that echoes throughout the track. Jennie's opening verse establishes financial independence with lines like "All of my girls looking good and they got they own money" and "This for my girls with no sponsor, they got they own fundin'". Doechii amplifies this message with her fierce verse: "In the boardroom looking bored 'cause I'm not here for pleasin' the men/Not here to reason with them". Their repeated declaration "Top of the food chain, this ain't a new thing" further solidifies the track's empowering stance.

The Viral Choreography That Took Over TikTok

The song's choreography, created by Kim So-Hyun and BEBE Team, quickly sparked the #ExtraLChallenge across social media platforms. TikTok exploded with fans recreating the signature moves, particularly the song's emphatic "Extra Large" hand gestures. The dance trend gained additional momentum when celebrities joined in, extending the track's reach beyond traditional K-pop circles.

Chart Performance and Critical Acclaim

"ExtraL" became Jennie's highest-debuting solo entry on Billboard's Hot 100, entering at No. 74. Additionally, the track reached No. 13 on the Global Excl. U.S. chart and No. 18 on the Global 200. In the UK, it achieved impressive positions across multiple charts, peaking at No. 37 on the Singles Chart, No. 10 on Video Streaming, and No. 4 on Downloads. Critics praised the song as "an empowerment anthem for the ages", highlighting how it inspires listeners "to understand and stick up for who you are".

"Mantra": The Lead Single That Started It All

Released on October 11, 2024, "Mantra" emerged as the spark that ignited Jennie's solo renaissance. This track marked a significant milestone as her first release under Odd Atelier, her independent label established after departing from YG Entertainment.

Experimental Production That Challenged Pop Conventions

"Mantra" breaks traditional pop boundaries through its innovative sonic palette. Produced by a team including El Guincho, Jelli Dorman, Jumpa, and Serban Cazan, the song fuses dance-pop and Miami bass with substantial R&B influences. This experimental approach delivers a pulsating track with distinctly LA coolness, establishing a fresh soundscape that would define Jennie's artistic direction throughout Ruby. The song's captivating beat compels listeners to "hit repeat", demonstrating how effectively its production challenges mainstream pop formulas.

The "Pretty Girl Mantra" Cultural Movement

Beyond being merely a song, "Mantra" sparked a genuine cultural phenomenon. Jennie described it as "a fun, upbeat anthem that celebrates girl power and inspires every woman to shine in her own way with confidence". This message resonated deeply, transforming into what many called the "Pretty Girl Mantra" movement—a rallying cry for those "done with the drama, ready to embrace their own worth". Subsequently, the track ignited a viral "Mantra challenge" across social media platforms, with fans of all ages creating their interpretations and extending the song's cultural impact.

How Jennie's Vocal Versatility Shines

Throughout "Mantra," Jennie expertly showcases her multifaceted talents. She seamlessly transitions between confident rapping segments and melodic vocal passages, demonstrating remarkable versatility. Her performance in the music video, directed by Tanu Muino, further highlights this range through "high-octane choreography" executed flawlessly despite the track's demanding tempo. Fans specifically praised her live performances, noting how she maintained excellent vocals while executing intense choreography.

Global Chart Impact and Radio Success

"Mantra" achieved impressive commercial success globally. The track debuted at number 98 on Billboard's Hot 100 and remained there for a second consecutive week. Internationally, it peaked at number three on South Korea's Circle Digital Chart, reached number two on Billboard's Global Excl. US, claimed the third spot on Global 200, and topped charts in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Notably, it made history by reaching number 37 on the UK Singles Chart—breaking the record for the highest-charting song by a Korean female solo artist.

"Love Hangover" (feat. Dominic Fike): R&B Excellence

Released on January 31, 2025, "Love Hangover" emerged as the second single from Jennie's debut album Ruby, showcasing her venture into R&B territory alongside American artist Dominic Fike.

The Chemistry Between Jennie and Dominic

The collaboration between Jennie and Dominic Fike creates a magnetic musical partnership that highlights both artists' strengths. Their contrasting styles—Jennie's sultry, ethereal delivery against Fike's raw, laid-back approach—establish a dynamic balance throughout the track. This artistic pairing wasn't merely strategic; it produced authentic chemistry that shines through both lyrics and delivery. Fike's second-verse rap complements Jennie's opening performance perfectly, adding depth and a different perspective to the song's narrative about toxic attraction.

Jennie's Vocal Evolution in R&B Territory

"Love Hangover" demonstrates Jennie's remarkable vocal evolution, particularly in R&B territory. Her performance features breathy, almost airy delivery, marking a significant departure from her previous releases. Throughout the track, she seamlessly blends elements of pop and R&B with her signature flair, creating what music critics called "a hazy post-break track marked with retro soul flourishes". Her ability to maintain emotional connection while exploring this slower, more sensual vocal style establishes her versatility as an artist.

The Humorous Music Video Concept

The music video, directed by Bradley & Pablo and shot in Mexico City, transforms the song's metaphor into visual comedy. It begins with Jennie's funeral, where Charles Melton delivers a eulogy. Through flashbacks, viewers see various comical scenarios where Jennie repeatedly dies during dates—being eaten by a kaiju, choking on a martini olive, suffering a bowling accident, and falling from a great height. As Jennie explained on 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 yet falling in love again".

How the Song Showcased Jennie's Versatility

"Love Hangover" exemplifies Jennie's artistic range through its distinct sound compared to other Ruby tracks. Unlike the confident "Mantra" or empowering "ExtraL," this song delivers a "groovy, soft R&B track that feels luring and sensual". The track's exploration of complex emotions—being attracted to someone both toxic and intoxicating—allows Jennie to showcase emotional depth. Her ability to convincingly embody different musical personas throughout the album, from fierce rapper to vulnerable R&B vocalist, confirms her status as a multifaceted artist unafraid to experiment across genres.

"ZEN": A Journey to Self-Enlightenment

"ZEN" emerges as a spiritual centerpiece within Ruby, offering listeners a window into Jennie's inner journey toward self-discovery and resilience. Released on January 25, 2025, this bare, dramatic track showcases Jennie's artistic evolution through its powerful symbolism and introspective lyrics.

Lyrical Deep Dive into Personal Growth

The song's lyrics function as a poetic exploration of self-discovery, resilience, and inner peace. Through lines like "Nobody gon' move my soul, gon' move my aura, my matter," Jennie establishes unshakable self-worth. Moreover, her declaration that "Money can't buy sixth sense" challenges the notion that material wealth provides true happiness. Throughout the track, she uses the imagery of "thick skin layer like chains on chains on chains" to illustrate the emotional fortitude she's developed through personal challenges. Indeed, the recurring themes of storms and waves symbolize life's obstacles, while moments of calm represent the inner peace she's achieved.

The Grinding Production That Elevates the Message

Produced by Pluss and written by a team including Jennie, Asheton Hogan, Bibi Bourelly, Kirsten Alyssa Spencer, and Jelli Dorman, "ZEN" presents an intentional dichotomy between message and sound. As Jennie explained to Apple Music: "ZEN was made in such a delicate way but to be expressing it in such a loud fierce way, I think that kind of represents who I am". The track's industrial production anchored in synth and drum beats creates a sonic landscape that amplifies the power behind her chant-like delivery, with each element building toward a sensation of unleashed potential.

How "ZEN" Marks a Turning Point in the Album

"ZEN" represents a pivotal moment in Jennie's artistic journey. After six months of studio work marked by growing anxiety, her collaboration with Bibi Bourelly became the catalyst that brought clarity to her vision. In Jennie's own words: "That's when I knew everything was going to fall into place. I'm so proud of myself for not giving up". Essentially, this track became the foundation upon which the entire Ruby album materialized, marking her transition toward artistic independence.

Fan Interpretations and Personal Connections

The music video, directed by Cho Gi-seok, sparked diverse interpretations among fans. Many recognized the owl as a symbol of wisdom and strength, while others found meaning in the lotus imagery representing spiritual awakening. Ultimately, the track resonated deeply with listeners seeking balance in their own lives. As one interpretation noted: "You may hate her and put in time and effort to spread hate about her, but she knows that she has reached a high level of success". This universal appeal contributed to the song becoming not just a personal statement for Jennie, but a manifesto of self-reclamation that listeners could apply to their own journeys.

"Damn Right" (feat. Childish Gambino & Kali Uchis): A Cross-Genre Masterpiece

As the final collaboration on Ruby, "Damn Right" brings together three distinctive musical voices in a '90s-inspired R&B slow jam that stands as one of the album's most sophisticated moments.

The Unexpected Collaboration Story

The partnership between Jennie, Childish Gambino, and Kali Uchis represents one of the most ambitious cross-genre endeavors on Ruby. Following extensive studio sessions in Los Angeles throughout 2024, this collaboration emerged as evidence that Jennie wasn't merely selecting features for chart potential. Rather, she sought artists who could genuinely complement her versatility. The track skillfully balances three unique artistic personalities, creating a cohesive musical dialogue around themes of attraction and seduction.

Mike Will Made-It's Production Magic

Acclaimed producer Mike Will Made-It, known for creating multiple gold-certified singles and two U.S. Billboard number one hits, crafted the sultry, pounding beat alongside 30 Roc and Truebeatzz. His signature sound provides the perfect foundation for this cross-genre masterpiece. The production establishes a distinctly nostalgic yet contemporary atmosphere, showcasing Mike Will's ability to blend '90s R&B sensibilities with modern sonic elements.

How Three Distinct Artists Created Harmony

Throughout the 3:50 runtime, each artist delivers their signature style while maintaining remarkable cohesion. Jennie's vocals float delicately over the beat rather than cutting through it, creating a softer dimension to her performance. Kali Uchis follows with her characteristic breathy vocals, adding fluttery harmonies and ethereal quality to the track's second section. Childish Gambino completes the triumvirate with what critics called "his best OutKast impression," both singing and rapping through his verse with conversational flow and rhythmic play.

Fan Reactions and Critical Response

Critics unanimously praised how seamlessly the three artists' styles melt together. The track earned particular recognition for being "undeniably sensual" while showcasing each performer's distinct vocal approaches. Although not featuring the album's flashiest production, many reviewers highlighted its "effortless coolness" as one of Ruby's strongest moments, particularly for R&B enthusiasts.

"F.T.S.": Jennie's Declaration of Independence

"F.T.S." emerges as one of the most defiant anthems on Ruby, encapsulating Jennie's journey toward artistic independence. This 2:32 track delivers a raw, unfiltered message that resonates with anyone seeking to break free from constraints.

Decoding the Bold Lyrics and Message

The song's title carries dual meaning—"Fuck that shit" and "Flip the script"—serving as both a rejection of expectations and a declaration of narrative control. Throughout the track, Jennie questions, "Whatever happened to freedom and honesty?" expressing frustration with societal pressures. The chorus functions as a cathartic release, with Jennie repeatedly chanting "Fuck that shit" as she encourages listeners to liberate themselves from restrictive norms. In essence, the lyrics reflect themes of independence, defiance, and self-empowerment, urging everyone to embrace authenticity over conformity.

How the Track Represents Jennie's Career Evolution

"F.T.S." perfectly mirrors Jennie's professional transformation. After establishing OddAtelier in December 2023, she embraced artistic autonomy following years in the structured K-pop industry. As she stated, "I needed this. I wanted this", highlighting her determination to forge her own path. The track captures her transition from feeling "lost" to being "committed to myself". Likewise, the line "Flip the script" symbolizes her active rewriting of her narrative after years of having limited control over her creative expression.

Production Elements That Amplify the Rebellion

The track features sparse, eerie synths that create a haunting atmosphere, enhancing its rebellious nature. This minimalist approach allows Jennie's emotional delivery to take center stage, making her defiant lyrics even more impactful. The sparse production effectively conveys the song's raw emotional power, creating what critics described as "one of the most emotionally charged songs on the album".

The Song's Impact on Fan Empowerment

"F.T.S." has profoundly resonated with fans seeking personal liberation. Many view it as an anthem for self-determination, with its message extending beyond music into personal empowerment. For this reason, the track has become particularly meaningful during live performances. At the Ruby Experience concert, Jennie addressed audiences about presenting her authentic self: "Not just the polished parts...but this raw and honest side of mine". This vulnerability has strengthened her connection with fans who find courage in her defiance.

"Filter": The Social Media Commentary

Within Ruby's tracklist, "Filter" stands as a sharp commentary on social media culture, exploring the gap between online personas and reality. The track examines how digital platforms shape perceptions and encourage superficial judgments.

How Jennie Critiques Digital Superficiality

"Filter" cleverly mirrors Jennie's complicated relationship with social media. Throughout her career, she has faced public scrutiny over her online presence—from criticism about her response to Korea's devastating wildfires to skepticism regarding her performances. Ironically, fans simultaneously obsess over recreating her aesthetic, searching for "which filter did Jennie use for her Instagram post?". This paradox becomes the song's central theme, as she addresses how people consume filtered versions of celebrities while criticizing them for perceived inauthenticity.

Dem Jointz's Production Brilliance

Producer Dem Jointz brings his distinctive touch to "Filter" after making waves in K-pop through collaborations with SM Entertainment artists including Red Velvet, EXO, NCT 127, and Aespa. His background—growing up in Compton yet choosing music over "surrounding pressure of gangs and violence"—informs his production philosophy. Dem Jointz applies his signature sound layering technique, which he previously described as "adding layers and textures... that are very unique". This approach perfectly complements the song's message about deceptive appearances.

The Track's Relevance in Today's Instagram Culture

"Filter" resonates with contemporary digital behavior where social media users curate idealized versions of themselves. Interestingly, Jennie herself regularly uses filters—a practice so popular that fans actively share collections of "cute insta filters" she employs. Nevertheless, the track examines how these tools simultaneously connect and distance us from reality.

Celebrity and Fan Reactions to the Message

The song provoked intense responses, particularly following Jennie's controversial "Filter" performance at "The Ruby Experience" show in Los Angeles. After a wardrobe malfunction during this segment created awkward moments, she adapted with a bold new look for subsequent performances. This real-world situation perfectly embodied the song's message about image management and authenticity.

"Seoul City": A Tribute to Jennie's Roots

Through sultry R&B melodies, "Seoul City" pays homage to Jennie's birthplace while exploring intimate connections. This track stands out for its geographic specificity, creating a metaphorical bridge between Jennie's Korean roots and global artistry.

Blending Korean Heritage with Atlanta Sound

On "Seoul City," Jennie ingeniously fuses cultural elements from her homeland with contemporary R&B influences. The track's opening line, "In Seoul city I see your soul," establishes an immediate wordplay that functions as both declaration and metaphor. The song explores Korean identity through references to her hometown, yet wraps these cultural touchpoints in funk-inspired beats. This hybrid approach reflects K-pop's broader evolution as a genre that incorporates "transnational flows... taking place across, beyond, and outside national boundaries".

Mike Will Made-It's East-Meets-West Production

Though not explicitly confirmed as producer, the track follows similar production patterns to other Mike Will Made-It collaborations on the album. The approach creates what critics describe as "a sensual, almost dreamlike" sonic atmosphere. Through minimal yet effective instrumentation, the production establishes a perfect backdrop for Jennie's intimate vocal delivery. Stylistically, the song blends elements of Korean musical sensibilities with Western R&B conventions, embodying how K-pop has evolved through incorporating "modern Western sounds and African-American influences".

Nostalgic Lyrics and Personal References

The lyrics contain several nods to Korean culture, primarily through the "+82, some miracle" line referencing South Korea's international dialing code. Jennie's personal connection to Seoul runs deep—she was born in Bundang in Seongnam and lived there until age eight before moving to New Zealand. As she revealed to Zane Lowe, Seoul represents her "hometown where she feels the most safe and comfortable, yet also strange".

How the Song Bridges Jennie's Past and Present

"Seoul City" effectively connects Jennie's journey from trainee to global superstar. The track acknowledges her origins while demonstrating her artistic evolution since debuting with BLACKPINK in 2016. By comparing her intimate knowledge of Seoul with her understanding of a partner, Jennie creates a powerful metaphor for deep connection—knowing someone "in a deeper, more intimate way, just like how she knows Seoul, watching it change over the years".

"Starlight": Vulnerability in the Spotlight

Among Ruby's most introspective offerings, "Starlight" delves into the dichotomy between public perception and private reality. This heartfelt track emerges from deep conversations about personal struggles, creating a powerful statement on vulnerability.

The Contrast Between Fame and Inner Darkness

"Starlight" powerfully articulates the tension between public image and inner truth. Through lyrics like "You said you see the starlight in me/What about the black mystery?/What about the moments you don't see?" Jennie challenges surface-level perceptions. The song originated from meaningful conversations with co-writer Bibi Bourelly, where they bonded over shared struggles. Importantly, Jennie viewed these discussions as transformative, describing Bourelly as "my motivator in life" who empowered her "to be a stronger version of myself". This emotional honesty creates what critics called Jennie "at what might be her most vulnerable".

Yeo Jin Goo's Cinematic Spoken Word Contributions

South Korean actor Yeo Jin Goo provides evocative narration that bookends "Starlight," adding "cinematic sheen" to the track. His spoken-word elements enhance the song's theatrical quality, establishing an introspective tone from the opening moments. Yeo Jin Goo, who gained recognition through roles in The Moon Embracing the Sun, The Crowned Clown, and Hotel Del Luna, attended Jennie's exclusive listening party in Seoul, underscoring their artistic connection.

The Breakbeat Production That Mirrors Emotional Chaos

The production employs breakbeat elements that effectively mirror the song's emotional landscape. These audio techniques—including stem separation, vocal manipulation, and rhythmic delays—create textural depth that complements Jennie's vulnerable delivery. Through this sonic approach, the track achieves a bittersweet quality that enhances its storytelling impact.

How "Starlight" Resonated with Fellow Celebrities

"Starlight" struck a chord beyond traditional fan circles, resonating particularly with fellow celebrities who understood its message about fame's complexities. The track symbolizes hope, reminding listeners "that even in their darkest moments, the light of the stars can lead the way". Throughout the song, Jennie emphasizes self-discovery over dwelling on hardships, choosing to remember creative moments that "make us special". This authentic expression of vulnerability made "Starlight" particularly meaningful in concert settings, where fans described it as "giving mental breakdown but life goes on".

"Twin": The Emotional Album Closer

Closing out Ruby with raw emotion, "Twin" stands as Jennie's most vulnerable musical moment, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into personal loss. At 3:28 minutes long, this reflective ballad showcases a different side of the artist compared to the album's more assertive tracks.

The Personal Story Behind Jennie's Most Intimate Track

In an Apple Music interview with Zane Lowe, Jennie revealed "Twin" as "maybe the most personal song" on her album. The track functions as a heartfelt letter addressed to someone with whom she once shared a profound connection. Remarkably, Jennie's emotional attachment to the song became evident during live performances, where she visibly teared up while singing. According to her own admission, writing "Twin" provided a sense of closure regarding a relationship that had significantly impacted her life.

Lyrical References and Hidden Meanings

The lyrics reveal the complexities of a relationship that lasted "ten years in," suggesting a long-term connection that gradually dissolved. Throughout the song, Jennie addresses this person directly: "I didn't hold ya, but I still know ya, we will make up, make things right when we get older, friend". Fans have developed two primary theories about the song's subject—many believe it references Jennie's longtime friendship with Chahee, a former member of Melody Day, especially after Chahee liked a fan comment suggesting the connection. Alternatively, some speculate it might address Jennie's rumored relationship with BTS member V.

Mike Will Made-It's Stripped-Back Production Approach

Unlike Mike Will Made-It's typically layered production style, "Twin" features intentionally minimal instrumentation. His approach for this track follows his recent philosophy of "scaling it back" to create space for emotional impact. As evident from his production history, Will excels at recognizing "the record, the artist, and the idea", evidently understanding that Jennie's vulnerable lyrics required breathing room rather than complex production.

How "Twin" Provides Closure to Ruby's Narrative

As the final track, "Twin" serves as both personal and artistic resolution to Ruby. For Jennie, the songwriting process provided emotional clarity, as she explained: "I think being truthful on that song gave me a conclusion, a clear thought on how I felt on that relationship". For listeners, the track creates a sense of peaceful solitude after the album's more assertive moments, ultimately ending Jennie's debut project on a note of hopeful introspection rather than definitive conclusion.