K-pop superstar JENNIE of BLACKPINK has expressed her profound admiration for global icon Rihanna, citing the Barbadian singer and entrepreneur as a significant source of inspiration and a benchmark for her own career aspirations. In a recent interview, JENNIE articulated that achieving a level of influence akin to Rihanna’s across pop culture, music, and art would represent a personal dream come true.
JENNIE’s Admiration for Rihanna’s Multifaceted Influence
The revelation came during JENNIE’s cover story feature for the August 3rd edition of Cosmopolitan. The BLACKPINK member, known for her dynamic stage presence and fashion-forward style, highlighted Rihanna’s unparalleled impact as a guiding light. "Rihanna will always be my biggest dream in terms of how much influence she has over pop culture and also music culture and art itself," JENNIE stated to the publication.
She further elaborated on the depth of this inspiration, adding, "She’s so inspiring for me. To find that for myself would be a dream." This sentiment underscores JENNIE’s ambition to transcend traditional musical boundaries and establish a lasting legacy, much like Rihanna has managed through her diverse ventures.
Rihanna, a celebrated artist with a remarkable 14 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, has leveraged her musical success into a global empire, most notably with her Fenty brand. Her ability to consistently innovate and maintain cultural relevance across multiple industries serves as a powerful model for aspiring artists. JENNIE’s aspiration reflects a desire to emulate not just musical prowess but also the strategic vision and broad cultural footprint that defines Rihanna’s career.
Spotlight on Collaborators and Fellow Artists
Beyond her admiration for Rihanna, JENNIE also took the opportunity to praise several other prominent female artists who have either collaborated with her or whom she deeply respects. In an accompanying episode of Cosmopolitan‘s "Blind Date" series on YouTube, JENNIE spoke enthusiastically about her "ExtraL" collaborator Doechii and fellow Chanel ambassador Gracie Abrams.
Her praise for Doechii was particularly effusive. "I love Doechii," JENNIE declared. "She’s just like a walking inspiration for me. Anything that she does is so creative, and I can already tell that she puts so much time and her vision in it. I was immediately drawn to all her videos and all her music from the beginning. So, I just knew deep down, like, I wanted to collaborate with her."
JENNIE explained the synergy behind their collaboration on "ExtraL," noting, "With the song ‘ExtraL,’ that’s what I was searching for: a strong, feminine energy that I could have fun with. Who else better than Doechii?" This highlights JENNIE’s deliberate approach to artistic partnerships, seeking out artists whose energy and creative vision complement her own.
A Deepening Connection with Gracie Abrams
The interview also touched upon JENNIE’s connection with singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams. Abrams had previously penned a tribute to JENNIE for TIME’s 100 Most Influential People list earlier in the year. JENNIE revealed the emotional impact of receiving this recognition from a fellow artist.
"I didn’t know she was writing this piece about me, so when I saw it, I was in literal tears, and I was actually screaming a little bit too," JENNIE confessed. She described Abrams as "such a sweetheart" and expressed her profound appreciation for the gesture. "It was just the sweetest thing that anyone could’ve done, and Gracie’s such a sweetheart. I’m such a big fan of her music and her as an artist. So to be able to share this generation together, so closely, I think I’m just very lucky."
This exchange underscores the sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among artists in the contemporary music scene, transcending genre and geographical boundaries. JENNIE’s acknowledgment of Abrams’ talent and her heartfelt reaction to the tribute showcase a genuine appreciation for her peers.
JENNIE’s Recent Solo Endeavors and Future Plans
The Cosmopolitan feature arrives on the heels of JENNIE’s recent solo single release, "Less Than a Lover," which dropped on July 24th. Throughout the summer, JENNIE has also been actively engaging in solo festival performances, appearing at major events such as Lollapalooza in Chicago and the Governor’s Ball in New York City. These performances follow BLACKPINK’s extensive "Born Pink World Tour" last year, marking a period of individual artistic exploration for the K-pop star.
Her passion for music extends to her appreciation of other artists’ work. When asked about concerts she’s eager to attend as a fan, JENNIE expressed her excitement for Rosalía’s "Motomami World Tour," specifically mentioning her desire to be front row. "I am at Rosalía’s concert screaming, front row," she stated, adding, "I can’t wait to go watch her Lux Tour, seems amazing."
JENNIE’s dedication to experiencing Rosalía’s music extends to her personal efforts to connect with the artist’s work on a deeper level. She revealed that she has been learning Spanish specifically to sing Rosalía’s song "La Perla" flawlessly. "It’s my goal to, like, sing the whole thing without looking at the lyrics," JENNIE shared, demonstrating her commitment to artistic immersion and cultural appreciation.
The Evolving Landscape of Global Music Influence
JENNIE’s aspirations and her recognition of influential figures like Rihanna and Rosalía reflect a broader trend in the global music industry. Artists are increasingly leveraging their platforms to impact culture beyond music, becoming trendsetters in fashion, business, and advocacy. Rihanna’s success as a beauty and fashion mogul, alongside her musical achievements, has set a precedent for artists seeking to build multifaceted brands.
The K-pop phenomenon, of which BLACKPINK is a leading exponent, has significantly contributed to this global cultural exchange. Artists like JENNIE, with their international reach and diverse appeal, are at the forefront of this movement, inspiring fans and fellow musicians alike. Their ability to connect with audiences across different cultures and languages highlights the unifying power of music and artistic expression.
JENNIE’s interview provides a glimpse into the mindset of a contemporary global superstar, one who is not only focused on her own artistic output but also deeply aware of and inspired by the achievements of her peers and icons. Her expressed dream of emulating Rihanna’s broad influence speaks volumes about her ambition and her understanding of the multifaceted nature of modern stardom. As she continues to navigate her solo career and her work with BLACKPINK, her journey is keenly watched by millions worldwide, eager to see how she shapes her own unique legacy in the entertainment world.
The Cosmopolitan feature, complete with multiple cover variants, and JENNIE’s appearance on the "Blind Date" YouTube series offer fans an intimate look into her artistic inspirations and personal reflections. These platforms serve to deepen the connection between the artist and her global fanbase, fostering a greater understanding of her creative process and her aspirations for the future. Her engagement with artists like Doechii and Gracie Abrams, coupled with her admiration for trailblazers like Rihanna and Rosalía, paints a picture of an artist who is both grounded in her roots and expansive in her vision.
