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In a groundbreaking achievement for K-pop, BLACKPINK member Jisoo has become the first Korean female soloist to surpass 1 billion plays on YouTube Music with her debut album ‘ME’. This milestone, reached on July 16, 2024, cements Jisoo’s position as a formidable solo artist in the global music scene.
Released on March 31, 2023, ‘ME’ has continued to captivate audiences worldwide for over a year, showcasing Jisoo’s unique artistry and appeal beyond her role in the internationally acclaimed girl group BLACKPINK. The album, which includes the hit single “FLOWER” and the B-side track “All Eyes On Me,” has resonated with fans and casual listeners alike, contributing to its impressive streaming numbers.
The success of ‘ME’ extends beyond just streaming platforms. Upon its release, the physical album debuted at number one on the Circle Album Chart, selling an unprecedented 1.03 million copies in less than two days. This feat made it the best-selling album by a female soloist in the chart’s history and the first to exceed one million sales.Jisoo’s journey as a solo artist has been marked by careful consideration and creative involvement. As she explained in an interview,
“This is a single of ‘me’ myself, created after countless considerations to look inside and express myself.” Her hands-on approach to the album’s production, from music to concept and visuals, has allowed her to showcase previously unexplored facets of her artistry.
The album’s title track, “FLOWER,” has been a particular standout. Its music video has amassed around 523 million views on YouTube, and the song’s catchy beat and addictive dance step sparked a viral dance challenge that swept across social media platforms. “FLOWER” also achieved remarkable success on international charts, peaking at number two on the Billboard Global 200 and setting new records for female Korean soloists on the Canadian Hot 100 and UK Singles Chart.Critics have praised ‘ME’ for its sophisticated lyrics and production, which effectively highlight Jisoo’s distinctive vocals.
The album blends various genres, including pop, trap, dance, and synth-pop, while also incorporating traditional Korean instruments and Caribbean production elements.This latest achievement adds to Jisoo’s growing list of accomplishments as a solo artist. Since the expiration of her contract with YG Entertainment, Jisoo has launched her own label, BLISSOO, signaling a new chapter in her career.
While fans eagerly await new music under her self-managed label, Jisoo has been busy expanding her presence in the acting world. She has completed filming for the upcoming movie “Omniscient Reader’s View,” set for release in 2025, and is slated to make a small-screen comeback in the zombie drama “Influenza”.As Jisoo continues to break barriers and set new records, her success with ‘ME’ on YouTube Music not only highlights her individual talent but also underscores the growing global influence of K-pop soloists.
This historic achievement serves as a testament to Jisoo’s artistic vision and the unwavering support of her fanbase, promising an exciting future for both her music and acting careers.
Most played albums by Korean female soloists on YouTube Music:
1: ME by #JISOO: 1B plays.
2: Lilac by IU: 890M plays.
3: Maria by Hwasa: 835M plays.
4: -R- by Rosé: 727M plays.
5: Palette by IU: 699M plays. pic.twitter.com/wS4lH9n5Zv— JISOO NEWS (@NEWSJISOO) July 15, 2024