May 15, 2025
By Alexandra Ruiz
Staff Writer
“Alter Ego” is the fierce debut solo studio album by Thai rapper, singer and K-pop superstar Lisa. With hip-hop, electropop and trap styles, the 15-track album reflects Lisa’s skill and versatility.
Lisa is the main rapper and dancer in the K-pop group “Blackpink.” Now 28 years old, she is also the group’s youngest member. In December 2023, Blackpink announced it would go on hiatus so its members could focus on their solo endeavors, each with their own managers. From there, Lisa emerged with “Alter Ego,” released on Feb. 28.
The first track, “Born Again,” was released as a single on Feb. 6 and features singer-songwriters Doja Cat and Raye.
In this song, Raye and Lisa sing together in the chorus, “Every single night / to be born again baby / to be born again.” The track is sleek and classy with strings in the background, but it is also funky and upbeat, demonstrating their confidence.
As the title suggests, Lisa tells listeners she has been reborn. In this disco-inspired song, Lisa sings about her growth as an artist, as she has become a better version of herself.
“Elastigirl,” is the upbeat third track in “Alter Ego.” Inspired by the superhero Elastigirl from
“The Incredibles” movies, this song is the most impressive on the album. With vocal runs and challenging notes, Lisa proves she is not a one-trick pony.
Lisa knows that no matter what difficulties come her way, she’ll find a way to make it work. She conveys this message in the chorus, where she sings, “You can watch me hit the ground / and I snap right back.”
In this disco-inspired song, Lisa sings about her growth as an artist, as she has become a better version of herself.
The seventh song, “Rapunzel,” is crisp, laid-back, percussive and up-tempo. In this track, which features American rapper and songwriter Megan Thee Stallion, Lisa reflects on her lavish lifestyle and career accomplishments. She compares Rapunzel’s hair to her wealth and achievements because both are abundant and luxurious.
Megan Thee Stallion raps in the second verse, “Louis V / my duffle / body tea for trouble.” She is the perfect partner for Lisa in this song since the two unapologetically brag about their success.
Overall, “Alter Ego” is a bold and confident debut showcasing Lisa’s evolution as an artist and individual. With empowering lyrics, genre-blending production and powerhouse collaborations, the album serves as a declaration of independence and identity.
