Blackpink's Jennie has opened up about her exhilarating experience performing at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, describing it as the "best gift" she could give herself. Speaking on the popular show tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block' on May 7, 2025, Jennie shared that she spent a grueling 16 months preparing for her solo performance at one of the world’s largest music festivals.
Jennie, who performed on April 13 and April 20, 2025, expressed her amazement at the sheer scale of the event, which attracts around 250,000 attendees over two weekends. "Coachella is one of the biggest music festivals in the world, where countless artists gather in the desert," she explained during the show. The emotional weight of her performance struck her as she gazed at the vast audience, leaving her feeling overwhelmed. "I was surprised by how emotional I felt. It was as if I was being rewarded for all my preparation," she said.
During her time on the show, Jennie revealed how she managed to perform a non-stop set of 13 songs over 50 minutes. "I usually struggle to perform at full capacity during rehearsals, but I wanted to overcome my limitations. I practiced by running while singing, and I even underwent treatment to manage my stamina," she shared, highlighting the hard work that went into her performance.
One of the most touching moments of her set came during her final song, "Starlight," when she unexpectedly shouted, "I love you, Mom!" This heartfelt message drew attention and sparked discussions among fans. Jennie recounted how she promised herself not to cry, but seeing her mother in the audience made it difficult. "We're just a normal mom and daughter, but we received so much attention. My mom told me to talk about her when I got home," she added with a smile.
After her monumental performance, Jennie returned to South Korea, where she indulged in some much-needed rest and comfort food. "I ordered six rolls of gimbap with different fillings and ate them with ramen. It was the best!" she exclaimed, relishing the flavors of home after her whirlwind experience.
In addition to her Coachella stories, Jennie also discussed her journey as a member of Blackpink and the upcoming group's activities. She revealed that Blackpink plans to reunite for more performances in July 2025, exciting fans who have eagerly awaited their return.
On the same episode of 'You Quiz on the Block,' Jennie was joined by other unique guests, including Jo See-lin, the first foreign gayageum major in Korea, and Lee Ji-seok, a middle school student known for his viral videos of training wasps. The eclectic mix of guests made for an engaging show, with Jennie’s stories standing out as a highlight.
As she reflected on her experiences, Jennie emphasized the importance of enjoying the journey rather than just focusing on perfection. "I've learned that having fun is what truly makes a performance good," she said, a sentiment that resonated with many viewers.
Coachella, which began in 1999, has established itself as the largest outdoor music festival in the United States, featuring a diverse lineup of artists. This year, alongside Jennie, other notable performers included Blackpink's Lisa and Lady Gaga, further solidifying the festival's reputation as a premier music event.
As Jennie continues to navigate her career, her dedication and passion for music shine through, making her a beloved figure in the K-pop scene. Fans eagerly await her next moves, inspired by her journey and the heartfelt stories she shares.
