2021 The Album Release

Lore & Background

The visual identity of this era shifted towards a more polished, high-fashion aesthetic while retaining the edgy, rebellious core that fans adore. The music videos became cinematic experiences, often featuring elaborate sets and storytelling that expanded their universe beyond simple performance clips. This period solidified the bond between the group and their fandom, as they shared a deeper emotional connection through lyrics about overcoming heartbreak and finding inner power.

Reader's Guide

The 'THE ALBUM' era began with the explosive return of "How You Like That," which shattered streaming records and set a tone of fierce confidence. This single acted as the prelude to the full album release later in the summer. Upon the official drop, the group delivered a diverse sonic palette ranging from heavy bass-driven tracks to melodic ballads. The lead single "Lovesick Girls" provided an emotional anchor, resonating deeply with fans worldwide and showcasing their vocal harmonies. This era shaped their legacy by proving they were not just hitmakers but complete album artists capable of sustaining long-form narratives. It established them as the first K-pop girl group to achieve such massive chart success on a full-length record in the West.

Did You Know?

• The album was preceded by two major singles released months apart, creating an unprecedented buildup for a debut studio album.
• "THE ALBUM" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, making them the first K-pop girl group to achieve this feat with a full-length record.
• The project included collaborations with international artists and producers, highlighting their global production value.
• It was the first time the group released an album in three languages: Korean, English, and Japanese.