"Give the music video team a raise" — Internet frenzied as BLACKPINK's Jennie surprisingly drops 'ZEN' MV

On January 25, 2025, BLACKPINK's Jennie took the internet by storm with the unexpected release of the music video for her latest single, ZEN. This surprise drop comes ahead of her highly anticipated debut solo album, 'Ruby,' slated for release on March 7, 2025.

Directed by Cho Gi-Seok, the ZEN music video showcases Jennie's artistic evolution and versatility. Set against a backdrop of stunning aesthetics, the video features the rapper in a series of captivating outfits and settings such as a warrior goddess, spring goddess, and more, to complement the song's powerful and introspective themes.

ZEN is one of the 15 tracks featured on Ruby, which boasts partnerships with renowned artists such as Childish Gambino, Doechii, Dominic Fike, Dua Lipa, FKJ, and Kali Uchis. An album trailer released on January 21 provided a sneak peek, accompanied by visuals of her sporting red hair.

Meanwhile, fans were quick to express their excitement across social media platforms. The surprise release strategy added to the frenzy among fans. One fan wrote on X:

"God damm bruh give the music video team a raise"

Many praised the song's innovative sound and the production quality of the music video.

"One of the most beautiful music videos I’ve ever seen in my life," one fan wrote.

"She's crazy for dropping it without any notice," another fan said.

"I'm actually gagged , i thought it was just an album teaser video before checking the link," another fan added.

Others lauded the blend of innovative visuals, music, and strategic releases.

""nobody gon' rule my life, my matter. nobody got all this power, make em scared" IS REAL ... who the hell got power like this other THAN HER..." a fan noted.

"It’s not a new song. It’s a concept video for the zen version of her album. She will likely drop another video for the Jane version too!" another fan emphasized.

"“ZEN” is probably her anthem song, wordplay to “jen,” and is basically the moodsetter for ruby so it’s most likely the track #1," one fan added.

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More about BLACKPINK's Jennie's solo endeavors

The latest release follows Jennie's first comeback single, Mantra, which she unveiled on October 11, 2024, after departing from YG Entertainment. Following her departure, Jennie established her own record label, ODDATELIER (OA), in December 2023, marking a new chapter in her solo career.

Mantra was described by the BLACKPINK rapper as an anthem that celebrates girl power. The track was well-received, with fans appreciating its message and Jennie's evolving musical style.

Following the establishment of OA, Jennie engaged in notable collaborations that showcased her versatility as an artist. On March 8, 2024, she teamed up with American rapper Matt Champion of Brockhampton on the track, Slow Motion, featured on Champion's debut studio album, Mika's Laundry.

Subsequently, on April 26, 2024, Jennie collaborated with South Korean rapper Zico on the single, Spot!. The song achieved significant commercial success, topping South Korea's Circle Digital Chart and reaching No. 24 on the Billboard Global 200.

Later, in a strategic move to expand her presence in the global music scene, Jennie signed a solo deal with Columbia Records on September 8, 2024, in partnership with her label, ODDATELIER. This partnership was announced via a collaborative Instagram post.

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In the lead-up to the release of Ruby, the BLACKPINK idol has announced a series of showcases titled The Ruby Experience.

These events are scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on March 6, New York on March 10, and Seoul on March 15, offering fans a unique opportunity to experience her new music live.