Lisa, a prominent member of the globally acclaimed K-pop group BLACKPINK, has embarked on a new chapter in her career with the release of her debut solo album, "Alter Ego." The 15-track collection showcases her versatility as an artist, featuring collaborations with renowned musicians such as Megan Thee Stallion, Doja Cat, Future, ROSALÍA, RAYE, and Tyla. The lead single, "Rapunzel," a dynamic collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion, has already made a significant impact, amassing over 2 million streams on Spotify within the first 24 hours of its release.
Lisa’s solo endeavor is not just about stepping out of BLACKPINK’s shadow—it is about redefining global pop stardom on her own terms. Unlike her previous solo ventures, where she worked within the YG Entertainment framework, "Alter Ego" is a product of her own creative vision, developed under her newly founded label, LLOUD Co. This marks a pivotal moment in her career as she transitions from a performer to an entrepreneur, demonstrating not just musical prowess but also business acumen.
The album offers a high-concept narrative in which Lisa introduces various alter egos—Roxi, Sunni, Kiki, Speedi, and Vixi—each representing a different aspect of her musical identity. This conceptual approach allows her to explore multiple genres, from rap and dance to pop and R&B, ensuring that the album caters to a diverse audience. While BLACKPINK's music has always been known for its edgy, high-energy beats, Lisa's solo album takes a more experimental route, blending international influences while staying true to her roots.
In a recent interview, Lisa opened up about the creative challenges behind "Alter Ego." She revealed that defining the album's sound was one of the hardest parts, as she wanted to ensure cohesion despite the diverse influences. "I didn’t want the songs to be too different from each other. I had to find the middle ground—different, but not too much. And choosing the right title track was the most challenging part," she admitted.
Her collaboration with Doja Cat and RAYE on "Born Again" has also been a talking point. Lisa has long admired Doja Cat’s artistry, previously citing her as an inspiration. She recalled, "First of all, I’m a big fan of her. I’ve loved her for years, so I was so honored when she said yes. On set, she was so professional, so chill. She’s a superstar, but also so real. I love her so much."
Beyond music, Lisa has also made waves in the fashion industry. She recently made history as the first K-pop artist to perform at the Academy Awards, gracing the 2025 Oscars red carpet in a sophisticated Mark Gong floor-length blazer. Her performance alongside Doja Cat and RAYE was one of the event’s highlights, earning praise for its elegance and energy. Fashion critics lauded her bold yet minimalistic look, which further cemented her status as a global icon.
Critics have largely praised "Alter Ego" for its bold experimentation and Lisa’s ability to transition seamlessly between different musical styles. Tracks like "Elastigirl" and "Thunder" highlight her confidence and artistic evolution, while "Moonlit Floor (Kiss Me)" brings a contemporary twist to classic love songs. However, some have noted that the sheer number of collaborations, while adding diversity, occasionally overshadows Lisa’s individual artistry. Despite this, the album has been met with overwhelmingly positive reviews, with many calling it a defining moment in Lisa’s solo career.
Lisa’s impact extends far beyond her music. By launching LLOUD Co., she has taken full creative control over her projects, ensuring that her artistic vision remains unfiltered. The label’s success signals a shift in the industry, where more artists are seeking autonomy rather than being confined to traditional entertainment companies.
Her influence continues to grow, not just in South Korea but globally, as she paves the way for Asian artists in the international music scene. She has also acknowledged the love she receives from fans in India and has promised to visit as soon as an opportunity arises.
With "Alter Ego," Lisa has proven that she is more than just a member of BLACKPINK—she is a solo powerhouse, a trendsetter, and an industry innovator. Her journey is just beginning, and fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating what she will do next, whether in music, business, or fashion.
