Yesung’s new single “Small Things” is a perfect reminder that we don’t need a big purpose in life. The small things add up, just like the 10 tracks on his first album Sensory Flows, released January 25, 2023. Daniel Kim wrote and produced the soft-rock title track with vintage vibes. If you’re looking for an easy-to-listen-to song while studying, Yesung’s got your back.

A once lost soul wandering aimlessly, Yesung meets a similar character beside a bridge holding a guitar, staring longingly at the river. The lonely musician is a common concept, but will this couple find purpose among their depression?

Waking up in the morning is most people’s struggle, and although there are chores, work, hobbies, and other things to do, it doesn’t mean happiness or purpose are a given. As Yesung describes walking through the streets, practicing and chilling with his friends at home, and performing on a small stage in a small bar as almost hopeless, he wonders if there’s a bigger thing in life waiting for him. That is, until he repeatedly sees another mystery musician during his daily route. From shy small talk to seeing each other’s music collection to watching Yesung’s band perform, a relationship begins to blossom.

But what “Small Things” is Yesung talking about? Could it be hearing his crush’s footsteps as he waits for her outside in the cold, seeing her smile as they meet again, watching her sway while his band performs? It’s all those things and more. I particularly like the one where the band performs a song written for the mystery woman. They both have the same question, “What about you?” Will they always stick together or part ways? But I think we can confirm a relationship from their closeness as they walk home together after the show (in our case, the end of the music video). What do you think?

By the way, can we talk about the sly posters in the music video promoting the very song we are discussing, as well as the amount of cassette tapes, records, and CDs in Yesung’s collection? Maybe streaming really is overrated. After all, who would want to miss out on buying a physical album with photocards, stickers, and a giant poster for your bedroom wall? We might be broke, but at least our rooms look cool.

Edited by Aleena Faisal