Blackpink's Upcoming Album 'DEADLINE' Faces Leak Controversy
Blackpink's Album Leak Sparks Outrage
Blackpink encountered a significant issue when news broke that their forthcoming album, DEADLINE, had been "accidentally" leaked. This incident followed closely after the K-pop sensation, consisting of Jisoo, Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé, unveiled a teaser for their title track, GO, on February 23. In response, YG Entertainment, the group's management, has removed all songs from online platforms. However, the initial reactions to the tracks have not been overwhelmingly positive, particularly due to the involvement of Dr. Luke in the credits, which has drawn criticism. Fans, known as BLINKs, are urging others on social media to avoid the leak and not spoil the excitement surrounding the group's third mini-album, set to officially release on February 27.
Details of the Leak
Blackpink's album DEADLINE leaks
Shortly after the teaser for GO was shared, reports of the leak spread rapidly online. It was claimed that all tracks were mistakenly uploaded to the band's YouTube channel, complete with credits. The title track indicated that all four members collaborated on the lyrics alongside Coldplay's Chris Martin. YG Entertainment stated that the songs were uploaded as Unlisted, but someone managed to leak the full link. On February 5, Blackpink had disclosed the tracklist for DEADLINE: 1. JUMP 2. GO (title) 3. Me and My 4. Champion 5. Fxxxboy
Backlash Over Dr. Luke's Involvement
Dr. Luke's name in credits receives backlash
Some tracks have faced backlash as well. When fans noticed Dr. Luke's name in the credits for two songs, Me and My and Champion, it sparked outrage. Dr. Luke, whose real name is Łukasz Gottwald, is a controversial figure in the music industry. He began his career as the lead guitarist for the Saturday Night Live Band in 1996 and produced Kelly Clarkson's hit Since U Been Gone in 2004. However, he has been embroiled in legal issues, including a lawsuit from Kesha, who accused him of drugging and abusing her, leading to widespread condemnation from other artists.
Fan Reactions to the Leak
Netizens react to the leak and credits
Many fans are questioning why Dr. Luke was involved in Blackpink's project. The leak has left BLINKs frustrated, with some attributing the incident to YG's promotional tactics. One user expressed their disappointment on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "So that Blackpink new album has only 5 songs, all leaked, 4 of them are sh!t from a butt and a serious decline compared to their previous work, and it’s produced by DR LUKE…" Another commented, "Accidentally YG want this comeback to flop very badly." A third user remarked, "Literally plotting their downfall like this can’t be real."
Upcoming Release of 'GO' and 'DEADLINE'
About GO and DEADLINE mini-album
Blackpink is set to release the full music video for GO on the same day as the launch of DEADLINE. This track is anticipated to be the album's title song, and the teaser has already suggested a futuristic aesthetic for the visuals. The high-concept video is expected to convey a strong, possibly rebellious theme, generating excitement for what GO will deliver both sonically and visually.