Jennie’s “Ruby” Named One of Rolling Stone Complex’s “Best Albums of 2025” – Only K-Pop Album on List

BLACKPINK’s Jennie elevated K-pop’s global profile by receiving widespread acclaim from international music media for her debut solo album “Ruby.” The renowned American music magazine Rolling Stone included “Ruby” in its list titled “The Best Albums of 2025 So Far,” released on the 5th (local time), alongside albums by world-famous pop stars such as Lady Gaga’s “Mehrm” and Playboi Carti’s “Music.” This makes it the only K-pop album to appear on this list. Rolling Stone described “Ruby” as “reinterpreting 2000s and 2010s R&B-centered pop in an interesting way,” adding that “Jennie demonstrates impressive skill in steering the core of candy-colored pop-R&B, and at some moments, she evokes a sense akin to a second-generation successor, though not directly, to Rihanna’s masterful ‘Anti’ released in 2016.” Another American outlet, Complex, also praised “Ruby,” selecting it as one of “2025’s Best Albums” and stating that “‘Ruby’ opened a new chapter for Jennie, as she showcased a wide range of vocal tones throughout this album.” “Ruby” is Jennie’s first full-length album, released in March, and takes its title from her middle name. According to her agency, OA Entertainment, the album was inspired by William Shakespeare’s comedy “As You Like It” and explores themes of “birth, love, belief, and peak performance.” Jennie participated in the creation of all 15 tracks on the album, effectively conveying her identity and endless musical potential. The album features collaborations with renowned artists such as Grammy-winning rapper Doechii, American alternative musicians Dominic Pike and Childdish Gambino, Dua Lipa, French electronic musician FKJ, and singer-songwriter Carly Uchis.