On February 21, 2025, music fans around the world were thrilled with the launch of the music video for the new song "ExtraL," featuring JENNIE from BLACKPINK and rising American rapper Doechii. This collaboration not only blends the distinct styles of K-Pop and Western hip-hop but also showcases powerful female energy evident throughout both the lyrics and visuals of the music video.
The collaboration marks the fourth single from JENNIE's highly anticipated debut solo album titled Ruby, set to be released on March 7, 2025. The album is expected to offer variety, having already teased fans with the pre-release tracks "Mantra," "ZEN," and "Love Hangover" (featuring Dominic Fike). Yet, "ExtraL" stands out for its different approach, joining forces with the Grammy-winning Doechii, recognized for her stellar album Alligator Bites Never Heal, which recently received accolades at the 67th Grammy Awards.
Produced by Dem Jointz, known for collaborating with global icons like Kanye West and Christina Aguilera as well as K-Pop groups including NCT 127 and Aespa, the track promises to deliver both high energy and quality beats. Thematically, "ExtraL" celebrates female empowerment, encouraging listeners to embrace confidence and disregard the judgment of others, particularly from men. The repetitive line, “Do my ladies run this?” empowers women and expresses leadership across all domains, whether it be fashion or self-assertion. Lines like “not here to please no men” and “not here to reason with them” reinforce the independent attitude, particularly with Doechii's rapid, intense rap verses complementing JENNIE's unique pop vocals.
The music video, directed by Cole Bennett of Lyrical Lemonade fame, features both artists dressed impeccably—JENNIE and Doechii flaunting cream suits with bold maroon bralettes, exuding elegance and challenge. With dynamic scenes highlighting their charisma and confidence, the choreography during the chorus is catchy, likely to spark viral trends across social media.
Since the teaser's release on February 20, excitement has been palpable, particularly as fans note JENNIE's strategic choice to work with Doechii, showcasing her awareness of her collaborators’ credibility even before they attained mainstream recognition. Social media is abuzz with supportive comments such as, "JENNIE and Doechii are too hot to handle" and "This song resets the music industry!" These comments underline the high expectations fans have globally.
"ExtraL" serves not only as JENNIE and Doechii's latest artistic endeavor but is also indicative of the blending of two musical cultures and reinforces JENNIE's capability as a solo artist ready to reach for international heights. The music video is positioned not just as entertainment but as inspiration for women worldwide to be their authentic selves, unencumbered by others' validations.
Meanwhile, music enthusiasts are gearing up for Selena Gomez, benny blanco, and Gracie Abrams' new song "Call Me When You Break Up" slated for release on March 21, 2025. This collaboration marks the collective debut with the trio, blending the talents of Gomez—an established pop powerhouse—with blanco, renowned for his top-charting hits. This track, reminiscent of heartwarming coming-of-age movies, captures the essence of teen experiences and youthful trials.
Gracie Abrams, among the freshest faces of pop, has already made waves since her debut in 2019, receiving Grammy nominations and spotlighting her increasing global fanbase. Her collaborative history with blanco on tracks like "Unlearn" only enhances the anticipation surrounding their new project. "Call Me When You Break Up" is poised to infuse the album I Said I Love You First, which marks the duo's first official collaborative effort.
The upcoming album, set to explore themes of love and relationships faced by both artists, is anticipated to resonate widely with audiences, especially following the successful teaser song "Scared of Loving You," released just before Valentine's Day.
Selena Gomez's portfolio continues to grow, as she outsold millions and streamed globally over 38 billion times across platforms. Her success is not restrained to music alone; she ventures as an actress, producer, and entrepreneur. Gimenez’s progression has caught attention with her projects garnering significant industry accolades including multiple Grammy nominations.
Benny blanco, celebrated for his ubiquitous songwriting prowess across pop hits, partners with Gomez to produce what many expect to be one of the most exciting albums of 2025. The anticipation surrounding I Said I Love You First builds as both artists share glimpses of their creative processes and personal relationship through music, heightening fans' excitement.
Also highlighted this week is the trend among Asia's Gen Z, inspired by the girl group NewJeans and their vintage camera aesthetic showcased in their music video for "Ditto." This trend is stirring new appreciation for retro tech, as young audiences increasingly gravitate toward vintage smartphones and accessories, reminiscent of simpler times. This cultural shift, termed "Young-tro," reflects younger generations' desire to escape fast-paced digital life, seeking tangible, nostalgic experiences.
The surge of interest has skyrocketed prices for devices like the iPhone 5S and older digital cameras, increasing their desirability as symbols of nostalgia and artistic expression. Cultural observers state this not only illuminates a generational gap but also encourages eco-conscious consumerism, as young people prefer vintage goods to combat electronic waste.
With increasing sales of second-hand devices noted on platforms like Bungaejangter reflecting significant market shifts, this trend appears to embody more than just passing fashion; it symbolizes reevaluation of value within consumerism among younger demographics.
These music releases and cultural phenomena showcase the dynamic and interwoven nature of contemporary music with broader cultural movements, from empowerment and nostalgia to new artistic collaborations, making 2025 another exciting year for the music industry.