On May 30th, Mark Tuan released his pre-release track, “High As You”, offering a glimpse into his upcoming album, which is expected to drop later this year. The GOT7 member has secured an identity for himself as a solo artist, blending R&B and pop into a distinct sound that has become his signature.

After returning home and officially launching his solo career with his DNA team, he debuted his first full-length album, The Other Side, in August 2022 - a 20-track project. The studio album was more than a milestone, as it allowed fans to explore new facets of Mark’s artistry that remained unseen despite their journey with him. With the release of his latest single, “High As You”, Mark reaffirms his signature lo-fi R&B-pop sound while nudging it into more sensual, emotionally candid territory.

From its opening bars, “High As You” carries the familiarity we find in Mark Tuan’s earlier solo tracks like “lonely”, “My Life” and “Save My Life”. The song produced by Captain Cuts, who is known to have worked with well-known pop figures such as Sabrina Carpenter and Halsey, continues to dabble with Mark’s niche: lo-fi R&B-pop while highlighting his breathy vocals.

Those who have followed his musical journey know that his songwriting has remained personal and honest, reflecting his emotions and experiences in personal life and relationships. This stripped-back approach has become central to Mark’s sound: emotional without melodrama, confessional without overexposure. Lyrically, he continues to write in first-person intimacy, favouring emotional transparency over metaphor. That vulnerability is what gives his solo material its distinct edge.

Mark’s delivery is usually gentle and intimate, as his vocals naturally glide through our headphones. Usually, after a few listens, his melodies sink in, making it easy to sing along. While this style may not resonate with everyone immediately, it's the warmth and accessibility that create a space where listeners can ease into its rhythm. “High As You” stays true to that essence while introducing a distinct, mature sound that marks a new phase in his artistic evolution.

Sonically, "High As You" leans into minimalist R&B production – a steady mid-tempo groove, layered synth pads, and subtle trap percussion that creates a velvety, late-night atmosphere. This arrangement complements Mark’s smooth vocals, making it one of his most sensual releases to date.  His delivery is breathy and low in the mix, wrapped in just enough reverb to sound close yet elusive – a key part of what makes the track feel intimate rather than overt. 

Lyrically, the track explores themes of love and passion with its bold and passionate verses. The GOT7 rapper, once known as a reserved figure of the septet, has now evolved as an artist unafraid to lay bare his emotions. When songs like “lonely”, “My Life”, “far away” portray his most vulnerable self, his latest single, “High As You” marks a daring transition - the mature and romantic side. Lines like, “The thought of you with nothing but my t-shirt, I like the way you bite your lip” and “Push me to the edge, Right into your bed, Breathing in the sex,” explore physical intimacy, an approach often cautioned in K-Pop mainstream. Yet, Mark, perceived as one of the private idols, continues to unveil his authentic self through his music. 

The music video places the choreography at the centre, blending artistry with elegance. Rather than relying on high-budget sets or flashy visuals, the video opts for a minimalistic approach, highlighting Mark as a fine performer. Set against a simple red backdrop, he delivers the choreography with six backup dancers, allowing movement to take precedence over spectacle.

There is an interplay of blue and red colours in the video, which enhances the song’s atmosphere, mirroring its chill undertones and passionate lyricism. The choreography itself is fluid and sensual, reminiscent of Taemin’s signature styles; graceful and seamless movements that define his performances in songs like “Want” and “Artistic Groove”.

“High As You” emerges as a mature release that signals a shift in his musical journey and narrative approach. “High As You” is setting a step for a deeper and more nuanced narrative that fans can anticipate in his future work. As the first teaser of his upcoming 2025 project, the song is a spark that has ignited excitement and curiosity among listeners who are eager to see the next chapter of his solo journey.