NCT’s TAEYONG Surprises Fans With Self-Written Track ‘Lonely’

Shortly after opening his YouTube channel (TY TRACK), NCT’s leader TAEYONG unveiled an upbeat music video for his self-written song “Lonely.” Released on his YouTube channel, the single follows TAEYONG’s string of self-composed SoundCloud releases such as “Monroe” featuring EXO and fellow SuperM member Baekhyun, “Rose” featuring Red Velvet’s Seulgi and the fan-favorite “Blue” which has amassed over 4.9 million streams on the platform, becoming the second most-streamed track on his account. 

Similar to his SoundCloud releases, “Lonely” sees the rapper formulate the track’s creative framework at a lyrical and composition level. While TAEYONG takes charge of the single’s lyricism, the multifaceted artist is joined by Royal Dive at a composition front-a fitting duo to commemorate the first anniversary of his SoundCloud account which saw the artists come together to co-compose TAEYONG’s first SoundCloud release “Dark Clouds.” 

 A mellifluous sonic transcript with ever-so hazy reminisces of his SM STATION release “Long Flight,” the latest release transports listeners into the serene realms of lo-fi and R&B, with a chill hip-hop beat to anchor TAEYONG’s signature melodic rap performance. Further enhanced by a smooth blend of bass synth and a playful piano melody that lurks in the background, at a sonic front “Lonely” embodies every antonym its connotation carries, making it a classic, feel-good Spring release. 

While the track presents itself as an upbeat Spring anthem, lyrically “Lonely” narrates the tale of a protagonist saturated with the monotony life has to offer. Unable to grasp the full extent of who they are, the single explains how this disconnect has led them to distance themselves from others. While they recognize it “takes a lot of work” to fully comprehend who one is, they are willing to put in the effort. With the fire of internal conflict and the lingering pinch of loneliness growing stronger, a sense of confusion seeps in, making the protagonist wonder what their next steps should be. 

This isn’t TAEYONG’s first brush with tackling heavy emotions. The rapper has previously explored helplessness in “Blue. ” 

“Lonely” also sees TAEYONG switch between textured vocalizations and raspy rap performance as SURAN balances the mood with a blend of dulcet and breathy vocalizations. The contrast in style and delivery between the two performers creates an engrossing aural experience, especially in the chorus as they sing; “I’m so lonely (Yeah)/ I’m way too lonely with nobody (Nobody)/ I been by myself, but I’m lonely (Lonely)/ I don’t know what to do.” 

The surprise single is accompanied by a performance video that sees the rapper joined by his dance crew (including Bada Lee who co-choreographed the viral track “Zoo” alongside TAEYONG) groove in an apartment. Donned in a spring color palette, TAEYONG plays to his strengths as he performs complex choreographed moves, each supported by a fitting expression, boosting the performance’s impact. 

“Lonely” marks the first collaborative effort between SURAN and TAEYONG. Their second collaborative project “Diamonds” (lead single of SURAN’s upcoming EP Flyin’: Part 1) is scheduled to release on March 23rd at 6 PM KST (2:30 PM IST).