Blackpink’s Lisa Is a Red-Hot “Rockstar” in Fiery Solo VMA Debut

Published: Sep 12 2024

Lisa of Blackpink, the electrifying 27-year-old Thai singer-rapper, whose real name resonates as Lalisa Manobal, is poised to add yet another feather to her illustrious cap with a thunderous 2024 MTV VMAs performance and clinching the prestigious Best K-Pop VMA award. As the night unfolded, she graced the stage for her maiden solo performance at the esteemed Video Music Awards, dressed in a resplendent all-red ensemble that captivated the audience from the get-go.

Blackpink’s Lisa Is a Red-Hot “Rockstar” in Fiery Solo VMA Debut 1

Launching into a seamless two-song medley, Lisa ignited the arena with her recent single, "New Woman," a track that typically features the talents of Spanish sensation Rosalía. In this solo rendition, Lisa flaunted her vocal prowess and dazzling dance skills, gracefully swirling around a symphony of matching red chairs, each step a testament to her artistry.

The momentum soared as she seamlessly segued into her summer anthem, "Rockstar," turning the stage into a fiery spectacle. The high-octane performance was literally illuminated by captivating pyrotechnics, as Lisa, renowned as one of K-Pop's most formidable dancers, delivered a dance break that left the crowd breathless, accompanied by a vibrant troupe of background dancers.

Later, in a triumphant moment, Carson Daly presented Lisa with the Best K-Pop VMA for "Rockstar," marking her second consecutive victory in this category, following her 2022 triumph with "LALISA." Overcome with emotion, she gracefully acknowledged the unwavering support of her fans, both as a member of Blackpink (collectively known as Blinks) and as a solo artist (adored as Lilies).

While this marks Lisa's debut as a solo artist on the VMA stage, her presence is no stranger to the prestigious event. As part of the unstoppable girl group Blackpink, she and her fellow members Jennie, Jisoo, and Rosé, with Lisa being the youngest, had already captivated audiences with their hit "Pink Venom" during the 2022 VMAs.

Lisa's musical journey continues to soar, with "New Woman" released last month and "Rockstar" in June, the latter being the inaugural single from her recently forged solo partnership with RCA Records. Amidst the announcement of Blackpink's contract renewal with YG Entertainment for group endeavors in December 2023, a subsequent revelation revealed that all four members had chosen to embark on solo paths, parting ways with the label for individual pursuits.

In a bold move, Lisa unveiled her new venture, LLOUD, in February, describing it as a vibrant platform to showcase her visionary pursuits in music and entertainment. This milestone was followed by an exciting partnership announcement with RCA Records in April, empowering Lisa to release new solo music under their banner while retaining full ownership of her recordings.

Now, adorned with the title of a global ambassador for Louis Vuitton, Lisa prepares to co-headline the prestigious 2024 Global Citizen Festival in New York, marking her solo festival debut. This monumental performance follows her triumphant headlining stints at Coachella with Blackpink, further solidifying her status as a global sensation.

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