Lisa (a.k.a. Lalisa Manobal) is a superstar. There’s her 59.

9 million
Instagram followers, her ambassadorships with Bulgari and Celine, her role
as a dancer and rapper in Blackpink, and now there’s her solo debut,
“Lalisa,” which has topped iTunes charts in 60 countries and became the
fastest track by a K-pop soloist to reach a staggering 100 million views, a feat
achieved in a mere two days.

Was there ever any doubt that this would be a record-breaking release for
the 24-year-old artist? From the moment Blackpink debuted with “Whistle”
and “Boombayah” in the summer of 2016, Lisa had “it.” In the five years
since, she’s only expanded on those qualities, and yet, for all her success
and accolades, remains the hard-working, cat-loving Lalisa that the
Blackpink fandom first fell in love with.

The balancing act is woven throughout her new single “Lalisa,” the first off
her debut single album of the same name. Not once does she relinquish the
spotlight—such is the strength of her stage presence, despite the whirlwind of
extravagant set and outfit switches—and she imbues the track with a
combination of intimidating confidence and playfulness. “Want you to ring
the alarm / Tell it to the world, kiss my name,” she demands, and, honestly,
who are we to disobey?

Below, Lisa gives us the lowdown on what makes a cultural icon of our times
tick.

Vogue: The title of your single is your own name... What do you hope
fans will learn about you as they listen?

Lalisa Manobal: I wanted to show you who I am through my first single and
solo album. The title song “Lalisa,” is also my real name, and it’s full of my
confidence. I’ve often said to Blinks [Blackpink fans], “Always be
confident,” and I wanted to deliver this message through this record. Both the
title song and the B-track, “Money,” are songs that I really enjoy dancing and
rapping to myself.

What did you discover about yourself when working as a soloist that
surprised you?
While I was working on this song, I found out that I like not only melodic rap
but also tight rap. I tried a tight rap in “Money,” and I really like this hip-hop
style, which spits out fast with a strong beat. It’s a new swag that was hidden
inside me. It’s probably the first time the fans have heard it, so I think it’s fun
to compare how it’s different from the melodic rap.

The teasers were dark and dramatic—like the shot of you hanging from
a chain wearing an incredible Alexandre Vauthier dress—but the video
and its styling is vibrant and bold. What fueled these contrasting ideas,
and how involved were you in the concepts?

Through this album, I wanted to give back positivity and energy to all my
fans. So this is why the teaser and everything contained that strong vibe!

What was the most strenuous, but also the most enjoyable, part of
making your solo album?

There wasn’t anything particularly difficult. Unlike working with a group, I

have to fill up the stage by myself this time. The performance lasts for three
minutes, and it can shine only when you maintain your own energy and
power. I therefore tried harder to manage my physical strength and health
with the thought of, “If you’re going to do it, do it right!” I worked out every
day and did Pilates steadily to keep in shape and gain strength. It definitely
helped a lot.

How many songs did you listen to and demo before deciding these two
tracks were the right sounds for you?

I didn’t choose just two songs from the beginning. I came out with two songs
because I liked them the most. When I heard them for the first time, I thought
they were mine!
You’ve become instantly recognizable across the world, and very much
in demand. How do you ground yourself and keep a clear mind?

I always try to think positively. Even if I’m stressed out, I cheer up by

looking at our cats and thinking about Blinks!

You’re known within fashion and music circles as a style icon, but what
are you most comfortable wearing?

I usually wear cropped tops and sweatpants. It’s a perfect look to practice
dancing in. And I also like vintage styles, as well as pretty necklaces and
accessories.

Being a globally successful performer brings with it its own set of

demands and pressures. How do you overcome any unwanted feelings
that might creep into your mind?

I’m always happy with my lovely family and friends—my [real] family, who
has always given me love and support, and my other family, the Blackpink
members. And also my fans, Blinks! These are the people encouraging me to
work harder every time.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.