Blackpink is a K-pop quartet and a global phenomenon whose dominance can be seen in record-smashing hits, sold-out shows, and million-engagement racking social media posts. Honoring Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa's towering success, the 2019 Shorty Awards recognized the group with the "Best in Music" award during its awarding ceremony held on May 5 in New York City.
The group bested other nominees which include One Direction's Harry Styles, Post Malone Janelle Monae, Kacey Musgraves, and Manson Ramsey.
Due to the ongoing North American leg of their "In Your Area" Tour, they weren't able to attend the said event. They nonetheless extended their gratitude through a pre-recorded message, with Rosé saying: "Sadly, we couldn't make it to the show in New York because we're currently on [tour,] but we just wanted to say thank you, and thank you to our BLINKS as well."
On their YouTube channel alone, the group boasts a subscribership of 24.7 million and counting. Their Instagram account, on the other hand, has over 18 million followers. After debuting only in 2016, they shot to global fame with their groundbreaking hit, "Ddu-Du Ddu-Du." Their latest release, "Kill This Love," reached over 56.7 million views on the first day of its premiere.
They also made history as the first Korean girl group to have played at the well-attended music fest, Coachella. They are further expanding their musical horizons as they collaborated with British pop star Dua Lipa for the song "Kiss And Makeup." Such achievements have paved the way for Blackpink's stronger digital presence.
The Shorty Awards, now on its 11th year, has been giving due recognition to "the best of social media," putting the spotlight on "influencers, brands, and organizations" who fare well on different platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and more. The award-giving body has previously awarded musicians like Taylor Swift, Adele, and DJ Khaled.
According to the organization, winners "are chosen through a combination of votes from the public and scores given by the Real-Time Academy," a group composed of the biggest names in business, culture, technology, and journalism.
