BLACKPINK’s Lisa releases first solo song in 19 months and keeps up her global run

Lisa has returned to solo music after a 19-month break, releasing “SaWaDiKa” as she continues a packed run of global projects. The BLACKPINK member released the single at 9 a.m. on the fourth, U.S. time on the third, and is due to follow it with the EP “PRESS PLAY” on October 23.

The song marks her first solo release since her first full-length album, “Alter Ego,” came out in February last year. Its title uses “sawadika,” the Thai greeting meaning “hello,” bringing Lisa’s home country directly into the release.

The track features the intense, deep sound and rapid-fire rapping associated with Lisa. Teasers showed her in clothing reminiscent of Thai traditional dress and riding a tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled taxi. The imagery points to a song built around her own story and identity.

Since “Alter Ego,” Lisa has released “Priceless” with Maroon 5 and “Bad Angel” with producer and DJ Anyma. She also appeared at Coachella. In May, she joined Anitta and Rema on “Goals,” a song for the official 2026 FIFA World Cup album, then performed at the tournament’s opening ceremony in Los Angeles in June.

Her projects now extend beyond music. The documentary “Always Lalisa” will have its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, which opens on the 10th. Directed by Sue Kim, it follows Lisa from her childhood dreams through BLACKPINK’s rise and her development as an artist. From November 13 to 28, she will stage the “VIVA LA LISA” residency at Caesars Palace Colosseum in Las Vegas, billed as the first residency by a K-pop artist. She is expected to perform her new song there.