The global music scene is buzzing with excitement over TWICE member Chaeyoung's solo album. Despite its unconventional music style, Chaeyoung's debut solo album has been named one of the '100 Best Albums of 2025' by the prestigious American music magazine, Rolling Stone. This achievement places her alongside BLACKPINK's Jennie, who also made the list, sparking comparisons between the two artists.
Recently, Rolling Stone published their annual 'The 100 Best Albums of 2025' list on their official website. Chaeyoung's first solo album, 'LIL FANTASY vol. 1,' released in September, secured the 86th spot, while Jennie's debut solo album 'Ruby' ranked at 29.
Rolling Stone praised Chaeyoung's solo effort as "a work that shows room for growth." The magazine noted, "Chaeyoung, who rose to stardom as a member of TWICE, reveals a new side of herself in her solo debut. She explores themes of losing an old friend, forgiveness, and her quirky personality through her lyrics." They concluded, "Chaeyoung is living her little fantasy now, but she remains an artist with room to grow."
Industry insiders attribute the album's attention to its genre diversity. The album features many tracks in non-mainstream genres that are not typically embraced by the general public in Korea. Unlike the usual K-pop formula where idol members aim for mass appeal in their solo ventures, Chaeyoung's album defies these conventions.
Her album is characterized by a blend of R&B, jazz, and hip-hop elements in neo-soul, a dreamy trip-hop with electronic music influences, and a mix of intense punk and ethereal pop sounds.
The album's tracks convey a variety of messages, including aspirations for a 'new beginning,' loneliness, growth, and optimism.
In one of the double title tracks, 'SHOOT (Firecracker),' Chaeyoung sings about embarking on a new 'start' with her solo album, inviting listeners to join her in a joyful party. The other title track, 'AVOCADO (feat. Gliiico),' uses the fruit 'avocado' as a metaphor for stepping into a new world, marking her first steps as a solo artist.
Chaeyoung's ability to take on such a challenge is credited to the fanbase she built while performing with TWICE. While many idols pursue mainstream appeal, Chaeyoung confidently pursued her musical vision, supported by her fans' unwavering support.
Chaeyoung's solo album is also receiving positive feedback domestically. Music critic Kim Yoon-ha commented in a YouTube video released on the 20th of last month, "The album is highly polished. It feels like something an artist with over 7-8 years of experience would create. It's solid and well-crafted, making listeners want to explore more K-pop."
By Min-Kyung Lee, TenAsia Reporter 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr