In a surprising turn of events that has sent shockwaves through both the K-pop and Western music fandoms, BLACKPINK's Jisoo has confirmed a collaboration with former One Direction star, Zayn Malik. The highly anticipated duet, titled "Eyes Closed," is expected to drop later this month, marking a significant moment for fans of both artists.
The news initially broke when Jisoo, 30, teased a new single on her social media, featuring a shadowy silhouette of a male figure standing behind her. The image, captioned "A duet is near" and later "two voices, one orbit," ignited a flurry of speculation among fans, with many pointing out the figure's resemblance to the 32-year-old "Pillowtalk" singer. Further fueling the rumors, an industry insider told The Korea Herald that Jisoo would be releasing a ballad duet with Zayn Malik.
Jisoo's management label, Blissoo, unveiled a teaser poster featuring the words "EYES CLOSED," further intensifying the excitement. The collaboration is Jisoo's first release since her mini album, Amortage, which was released in February and included the tracks "Earthquake," "Your Love," "Tears" and "Hugs & Kisses". Amortage itself followed Jisoo's official solo debut in March 2023 with the single album Me, featuring the hit song "Flower".
Zayn Malik had also hinted at upcoming music with a "cool collaborator" during a livestream, adding more fuel to the speculative fire. He also attended BLACKPINK's New York concert in July with his daughter, Khai, which some insiders suggest may have been connected to the collaboration.
According to industry insiders, "Eyes Closed" will be a soulful ballad that showcases both artists' distinctive vocal styles, blending Jisoo's emotive and honey-toned delivery with Zayn's signature R&B-infused depth. The collaboration signifies a crossover between K-pop and Western pop, potentially bridging the two artists' passionate fan bases.
Jisoo, who debuted as a member of BLACKPINK under YG Entertainment in 2016, has established herself as a powerhouse vocalist and performer. Her solo work has demonstrated her versatility and artistry, with "Flower" topping global charts. Zayn Malik, who rose to fame as a member of One Direction, has also achieved success as a solo artist, known for his introspective lyrics and mature artistry in hits like "Pillowtalk" and his album "Room Under the Stairs".
"Eyes Closed" marks a milestone moment for both One Direction and K-pop fans. It is expected to merge Jisoo's ethereal pop aesthetic with Zayn's soulful lyricism.
Both Jisoo and Zayn have busy schedules. Jisoo is currently on BLACKPINK's "Deadline" world tour, with a stop in the Philippine Arena scheduled for November. Meanwhile, Zayn has been working on new music, with potential Indian influences and even songs in Urdu.
As fans eagerly await the release of "Eyes Closed," the collaboration promises to be a unique blend of talent and styles, solidifying Jisoo and Zayn's positions as global music icons.
