Mark Tuan Explores Isolation and Despondency in His Latest Music Video For ‘Lonely’

Ruminating over loneliness and heartbreak, singer-songwriter and GOT7 member Mark Tuan’s latest release “Lonely” attests to his flair as a songwriter and vocalist. The track comes two months after the release of the pensive ballad “My Life,” which saw Tuan express a candid outlook on life and identity. 

Tuan first teased the single through a tweet published on March 16th. Turning the comments section to a suggestion box, the singer asked his fans to pick between two singles; “How y’all doing?” read the tweet. “I’m in a dilemma… i don’t know what my next single should be “save me” or “lonely” – you guys tell me.” The following day, Tuan announced he’ll be releasing both tracks starting with “Lonely”- ” Lonely’ dropping first next week and “save me” is tba. LESGOOO.”

The latest release sees Tuan work alongside a new team of songwriters and producers. Songwriter lilspirit (who co-wrote and co-produced “Last Breath” and “My Life”) appears again in a songwriting capacity. However, long-term collaborator OVRCZ, who worked on the aforementioned track, takes a backseat on this release. The production crew sees artistry from Matty Michna (also credited as a songwriter), BL$$D, JordanXL and Xavi. 

Similar to the pre-release singles, Tuan displays his readiness with honest songwriting and genre experimentation. Characterized by pop-rock sounds, “Lonely” sees the singer mesh a crisp percussion arrangement with soaring electric guitar riffs. A steady bass-synth anchors the track, providing a smooth listening experience along with the occasional inclusion of finger clicks, acting as a perfect bridge to usher in the energetic and catchy instrumental outro.

Contrasting to the track’s spirited composition, the lyrics convey the emotional turmoil of a man dealing with the downfall of a relationship. Coping with the overwhelming degree of isolation and despondency, Tuan sings, “Living in silence/ Feels so timeless/ When nobody’s here/ I sleep through all of the sirens/ Cause nobody showed me/ How to be lonely.” The imbalance of affection and attention in the relationship eventually pushes Tuan to call off all ties, embracing the isolation and rejection; “I like it better when I’m lonely lonely all alone/ I never needed you to hold me hold me keep me close/ And you know I gave you everything/ Then you went and said to me/ That you like it better lonely lonely all alone.” 

In an interview with Rolling Stone India, Tuan opened up about his artistry and what fans can expect from his debut solo album; “It has been crazy working on my debut album. A lot of studio sessions, a lot of songs written, and a lot of thought going behind everything. Everyone can expect a very vulnerable Mark,” revealed the 28-year-old pop star.