Lisa Teases ‘PRESS PLAY’ EP on The Tonight Show
BLACKPINK’s Lisa dropped a teaser for her solo EP ‘PRESS PLAY’ on The Tonight Show, describing the project as a cinematic journey from her roots to her present. She highlighted Thai cultural elements, a hit single ‘SaWaDiKa’, and a surprise track beginning with ‘T’. The EP is slated for October 23,…
By Felo News Desk · Published
BLACKPINK’s Lisa, the Thai‑born front‑woman, took center stage on NBC’s The Tonight Show to give fans an exclusive look at her forthcoming solo EP, PRESS PLAY. The 25‑year‑old singer said the collection is a personal narrative that traces her evolution from her early days in Thailand to her current status as a global pop icon. She compared the listening experience to watching a movie, encouraging fans to simply press play and let the music unfold.
Behind the Music: Thai Roots and Global Beats
During the interview, Lisa emphasized that Thai cultural motifs are woven throughout the EP. From traditional melodies to modern pop arrangements, each track carries a distinct personality, she explained, creating a tapestry that feels both familiar and fresh. The artist hinted that the EP’s first single, “SaWaDiKa” – which translates to “Hello” in Thai – already set a record, racking up more than 70 million views on YouTube within 24 hours of its release. The song also broke into the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 69.
Lisa noted that every song on the EP has its own vibe, yet they all blend together to form a cohesive story. She described the project as a “movie” in which listeners can immerse themselves in the narrative of her journey. The EP’s title, PRESS PLAY, reflects this cinematic approach, inviting fans to engage with her music as if they were watching a film.
Surprises and Upcoming Releases
While the full tracklist for PRESS PLAY remains undisclosed, Lisa teased that the fourth track will be released as a single and will begin with the letter “T.” She described it as a surprise for her fans, adding an element of anticipation to the EP’s rollout. The EP is scheduled for release on October 23, 2026, giving fans a clear timeline for when they can expect the new music.
In addition to her music career, Lisa is also the focus of the feature documentary Always Lalisa, directed by Sue Kim. The film will premiere in global cinemas and IMAX on October 12, 2026, before moving to streaming on YouTube Premium later that year. Tickets for the screenings will go on sale on September 9 through the film’s website.
Lisa’s Expanding Global Footprint
Lisa’s influence extends beyond music. She made history as the first K‑pop artist to headline a Las Vegas residency, performing a four‑show run titled VIVA LA LISA at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace from November 13–14 and November 27–28, 2026. Tickets reportedly sold out in under ten minutes, underscoring her massive fanbase.
She also performed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony, joining Anitta and Rema to deliver the anthem “Goals.” Lisa became the first female K‑pop and Thai artist to perform at the tournament’s opening, marking a significant milestone in her career. Her media presence has grown further, with appearances on Vanity Fair’s Summer 2026 issue, a role on the 2026 Met Gala host committee, and a presentation at the 2026 Golden Globes.
Beyond music and film, Lisa is venturing into acting with her debut on HBO’s The White Lotus. She is also confirmed for two Netflix projects: an action film titled TYGO, in which she will star and serve as executive producer, and an untitled romantic comedy currently in development.
What’s Next for Lisa?
Lisa is gearing up for the next chapter of her career. She mentioned that rehearsals for her Las Vegas residency are yet to begin but that she is eager to start. The EP PRESS PLAY will drop on October 23, 2026, followed by the release of her surprise single. Fans can also look forward to the documentary’s premiere and her upcoming film and television projects.
With her multifaceted career spanning music, film, television, and live performances, Lisa continues to break new ground for K‑pop artists worldwide. Her upcoming EP promises to be a cinematic experience that showcases her growth and cultural heritage, while her expanding presence in global entertainment solidifies her status as a global superstar.
Key facts
- Lisa previews her solo EP ‘PRESS PLAY’ on The Tonight Show
- The EP blends Thai cultural elements with modern pop
- ‘SaWaDiKa’ already achieved 70M YouTube views and charted on Billboard
- A surprise single starting with ‘T’ will be released as the fourth track
- Lisa’s global footprint includes a Las Vegas residency, World Cup performance, and film debut
Why it matters
Lisa’s new EP and her expanding global ventures highlight the growing influence of K‑pop artists on international stages, offering fans a deeper connection to her cultural roots and artistic evolution.
Frequently asked questions
When will Lisa’s EP ‘PRESS PLAY’ be released?
The EP is scheduled for release on October 23, 2026.
What is the significance of the song ‘SaWaDiKa’?
‘SaWaDiKa’ is the first single from the EP, translated as ‘Hello’ in Thai, and it has already garnered over 70 million views on YouTube within 24 hours.
What other projects is Lisa involved in?
Lisa is starring in the documentary <em>Always Lalisa</em>, has a Las Vegas residency, performed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening, and is set to act in HBO’s <em>The White Lotus</em> and Netflix projects.
Sources
- [1] billboard.com — originally reported as “‘It’s Like a Movie’: LISA Talks ‘PRESS PLAY’ on ‘The Tonight Show’”
