Kadia Zhou (9) | STAFF REPORTER
Rosé, a beloved member of BLACKPINK, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time, has once again captivated fans with the release of Number One Girl. This heart-wrenching ballad is the second single from her highly anticipated solo album, Rosie, following the record-breaking success of her debut single, APT., which charted in the Billboard Top 10 at number 8 – a first for a Korean female soloist.
Co-written with Bruno Mars, an undeniable highlight of this release, as well as a team of top-tier producers, including Amy Allen and D-Mile, Number One Girl dives deep into themes of vulnerability, heartbreak, and unrequited love. The lyrics, paired with Rosé’s signature “golden voice”, beautifully portrays the universal desire for recognition and connection in romantic relationships.
Number One Girl’s music video enhances the song’s narrative with moody, minimalist backdrops and visuals, recorded in the style of a retro camcorder. Rosé looks lost in thought, moving through dim and vast landscapes that mirror the loneliness in the lyrics. The simplicity of the visuals allows her raw emotions to take charge and allow listeners to zero in on the emotional and genuine aspect of the ballad.
In an interview ahead of the album’s release, Rosé revealed the meaning behind the album title Rosie. “It’s a name only my closest friends and family call me,” she explained, “and with this album, I want my fans to feel as close to me as they do.” This personal touch is reflected in her music, which seems to offer a glimpse into her inner thoughts and feelings.
Set to release on December 6, 2024, under Atlantic and The Black Label, Rosie promises to be a defining moment in Rosé’s solo career, marking her first solo release since departing from YG Entertainment and Interscope Records in 2023. If Number One Girl is any indication, listeners are in for an album full of heartfelt emotions and honest storytelling.
As Rosé continues to bridge the gap between the music genres of K-pop and global pop, Number One Girl shows that she is a multi-talented artist who isn’t afraid to illustrate her soul with her singing and show her vulnerable side to her audience. Fans and new listeners will undoubtedly find themselves moved by this sentimental ballad, excited for what the future holds for the rising soloist.
