Released: August 8, 2016 Genre: K-Pop
Label: YG Entertainment Released on August 8, 2016, Square One marked the highly anticipated debut of BLACKPINK, the first girl group from YG Entertainment in seven years. Featuring the tracks "BOOMBAYAH" and "Whistle," the single album set the foundation for BLACKPINK's signature blend of hip-hop-infused K-pop and instantly established them as global superstars.
Produced by Teddy Park and Future Bounce, "Whistle" takes a more subdued approach, relying on a hypnotic beat, soft finger snaps, and an infectious whistling hook that gives the song its name. The track blends R&B elements with an airy, almost haunting atmosphere, allowing Jennie and Lisa’s rap verses to shine alongside Rosé and Jisoo’s sultry vocals. The chorus is simple yet incredibly effective, making it an earworm that lingers long after the song ends.
Lyrically, "Whistle" plays with themes of desire and attraction, emphasizing a confident and almost teasing approach to love. The minimalist production makes it stand out, proving that BLACKPINK didn’t need an over-the-top instrumental to captivate listeners.
In contrast, "BOOMBAYAH" is a full-throttle club banger designed to be played at maximum volume. With a pulsating EDM beat, powerful drum patterns, and electrifying synths, the track is a statement piece that showcases BLACKPINK's ability to dominate the stage. Lisa's opening rap, packed with attitude, immediately grabs attention, while Jennie’s fiery delivery reinforces the group's bold presence.
The chorus is explosive, with the now-iconic "Oppa!" chant and the repeated "BOOMBAYAH" refrain making it an instant party anthem. The track’s structure allows each member to display their strengths, from Jisoo's and Rosé's soaring vocal moments to the dynamic rap sections that give BLACKPINK an undeniable edge.
The contrasting styles of the two songs showcase BLACKPINK’s versatility, blending hip-hop, EDM, and R&B into a distinct identity that would define their future releases. It's more than just a debut, Square One is a statement of intent—BLACKPINK isn't here to follow trends; they were here to set them.
With Square One, BLACKPINK have arrived with an explosive force, cementing themselves as a powerhouse in the K-pop industry from day one. "Whistle" and "BOOMBAYAH" are genre-defining tracks, setting the stage for their global dominance. If this is just the beginning, it’s not going to be long before BLACKPINK became one of the biggest k-pop girl groups.