The BLACKPINK members are fully committing to their solo projects. Lisa (리사) was the first of the group to release a solo single under her own record label with “Rockstar” earlier this year, and now it’s Jennie (김제니) ‘s turn!
The singer-rapper has been teasing fans about her new music since last month, and earlier today (Friday, 11 October), she finally released “Mantra,” her first solo single under her own label, Odd Atelier. Here are some fun facts about the new track:
1. Jennie is credited as one of the songwriters
Fans were ecstatic after learning that the BLACKPINK members will not be renewing their contracts with YG Entertainment, as this will allow them greater creative freedom. Jennie served as one of the writers for “Mantra,” which she described as a female empowerment anthem.
“The song 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. It’s energetic and empowering with a message for all of my ladies, women, and pretty girls out there to love yourself for who you are. This is your anthem,” she said.
2. She referenced “Rush Hour” in the music video
The opening scene of the music video features a girl singing the lyrics in the back seat of a car, while two adult men sit in the front. This references the kidnapping scene from the first “Rush Hour” film, starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker, in which the character Soo Yung is abducted by a criminal organisation.
3. Tanu Muino directed the music video
You can’t have a pretty girl anthem without a female director, now can you? Ukrainian filmmaker Tanu Muino is the mastermind behind the vibrant music video for Jennie’s new single. A few of her most notable works with other artists include Harry Styles’ “As It Was”, Dua Lipa’s “Illusion”, Katy Perry’s “Small Talk” and even Jungkook’s “Standing Next to You”.
4. The music video was filmed in front of the Petersen Automotive Museum
After the release of the “Mantra” music video, fans noticed that some scenes were filmed in front of the Petersen Automotive Museum. This may explain why Jennie was able to feature 5 different vehicles in the video, including a 1970s Chevrolet Nova, a DMC DeLorean, a Land Rover Defender, a Mercedes-Benz W123, and a Lamborghini Countach.
5. The outfit in the single’s artwork is from fashion brand Raga Malak
When Jennie released the official artwork for “Mantra”, it was discovered that the outfit she wore is from the Australian-based fashion brand Raga Malak. The white set, which is also featured in the music video, costs around USD$139 (RM591).
6. “Mantra” was released on National Coming Out Day
During the chorus, the idol raps the lyrics, “This that pretty girl mantra, she’s that stunna, makes you wanna swing both ways”, which many interpreted as a reference to bisexuality. After checking the date, the single and music video were released on 11th October which also happens to be National Coming Out Day in the United States. Was this intentional or just a coincidence?
As the second BLACKPINK member to release her music under her own label, we’d like to congratulate Jennie on this huge milestone. Check out the “Mantra” music video below:
