BY AMANDA MOSES
On December 6th, Barnes & Noble Fifth Avenue hosted a special pop-up event for K-Pop sensation Rosé’s new solo album, Rosie. Known for her global success as a member of BLACKPINK, Rosé’s album explores themes of love and relationships, marking a bold departure from the traditional constraints often associated with K-Pop culture.
Despite the freezing temperatures, fans gathered along 46th Street and Fifth Avenue, hoping to get their hands on a signed Rosie album. Many were also hoping for a chance to see the singer in person. While Rosé didn’t attend the Barnes & Noble event, she did make an appearance at another NYC pop-up, “I Heart Rosie,” on Hester Street the same day.
Although Rosé wasn’t present at the Barnes & Noble pop-up, her fans were eager to support her new endeavor. Dolly Shao, 21, arrived just after 8:15 AM to ensure she would get a signed album. Clutching her phone to her chest, Shao shared that Rosé’s music is integral to her life. A long-time BLACKPINK fan, Shao supports each member as they explore solo careers.
“I like all of Rosé’s songs, but my favorites are ‘On the Ground’ and ‘Gone.’ Every time I listen to her music, I sing along. Having her music in my life makes everything better. If I could say anything to Rosé, it would be ‘I love you,’” Shao said.
Rosé returned to Barnes & Noble Fifth Avenue on December 10th to sign even more albums for her fans, whom she refers to as her “Number Ones.”
Ivette Mendez, another fan who spoke to the Spring Creek Sun, praised the pop-up’s beautiful snapshots of Rosé, which made for great social media photo opportunities. Mendez finds Rosé’s music cathartic, especially her ability to openly express her emotions.
“Besides her beauty, I love her vocals. My favorite song from her first album is ‘Gone,’ not ‘On the Ground,’ because of the ballad’s feeling and its sadness—it really ‘hit.’ For her new album, I’ve heard all the songs, but I still love ‘Number One.’ It’s so emotional, and the backstory about all the comments and hate she’s received—how she channeled that into a song—is just beautiful,” Mendez said.
While signed editions of Rosie are sold out at Barnes & Noble, unsigned versions are still available.
Photos by Amanda Moses
