Less Than a Lover

On July 24, 2026, Jennie stepped away from the high-energy performance style that defined her earlier solo work to release "Less Than a Lover." This track serves as the lead single for her upcoming album Lover, marking a distinct pivot toward a mellow, introspective pop sound. The song arrived through Odd Atelier in partnership with Columbia Records, showcasing a gentler side of the artist that prioritizes vocal delivery over heavy beats.

The production features restrained arrangements with lo-fi guitar textures and warm, nostalgic keyboard sounds that create a comforting yet melancholic atmosphere. Co-written by Jennie alongside Tyler Spry, Cashmere Cat, Deborah Jung, Bibi Bourelly, and Jelli Dorman, the lyrics explore themes of unrequited affection and the ambiguity of a "situationship." Critics described the result as a dreamy ode to a summer romance where the protagonist realizes they are only a little bit less than a lover.

Jennie took creative control behind the camera for the official music video, directing the visual narrative herself. The clip stars NCT member Kai as the co-star, depicting the romantic tension central to the song's story. Released simultaneously with the audio track, the video quickly became a cultural talking point after the featured villa was made available for Airbnb bookings, highlighting the song's immediate viral impact. [edit]