Thinking

Thinking serves as a dual exploration of youthful infatuation and the determination to make a difficult relationship work. At its core, the song addresses the tension between logic and emotion; the narrator is fully aware that the love they are pursuing might be 'too much' or 'not meant to be' (implied by the line about knowing it 'can't be'), yet they choose to ignore these warning signs in favor of their feelings.

The song's meaning is deepened by the contrast between the two performers. Ryul's verses often embody the 'action' side of the meaning—pushing forward, having 'no backup plan' (meaning he is all-in), and driving the relationship with a 'Ryul style' confidence. This represents the masculine urge to conquer obstacles and prove one's worth through persistence. Conversely, Louis's vocal contributions often highlight the softer, more reflective side of the meaning—focusing on the 'vibe,' the beauty of the partner ('face is like art'), and the emotional memory of shared times.

The recurring request to take things 'slowly' despite the urgency of the rapper's flow creates a nuance of controlled chaos. They are rushing towards the person they love but asking for the relationship itself to be handled with care. The song ultimately conveys a message of unwavering commitment: even when the odds are stacked against them, the protagonist's mind is singularly focused ('Thinking') on their partner as the only solution.

The narrative unfolds as a candid internal monologue and a direct address to a romantic interest, oscillating between confident declarations and vulnerable admissions. It begins with the protagonist acknowledging a consuming preoccupation with their lover, admitting that despite knowing the relationship might be impossible or ill-advised—perhaps due to external pressures or the intensity of their connection—they are determined to pursue it to the very end. There is a sense of reckless abandonment in this pursuit, described as having 'no backup plan' and diving in headfirst.

As the verses progress, the tempo of the emotional plea slows down. The narrator urges their partner to take things 'slowly, slowly, slowly' and to reconsider the true nature of their bond. Memories of shared moments surface, specifically a vivid image of a 'last meal' eaten together amidst laughter, highlighting the genuine joy that once existed. The relationship is likened to a 'rodeo,' suggesting a wild, perhaps unstable, but thrilling ride that the narrator isn't ready to get off of. They express a deep desire for more love and promise to avoid past mistakes, showing growth and a willingness to change for the sake of the relationship.

The focus then shifts to pure admiration, with the narrator mesmerized by the partner's physical beauty, comparing their face to a work of art. This visual infatuation reinforces the emotional tether. The lyrics circle back to the urgency of communication, pleading for a phone call and lamenting the lack of time, emphasizing that without this specific person, there are no answers to life's questions. Ultimately, the song serves as a persistent reminder to the lover that they belong together, with the narrator's mind constantly looping back to thoughts of them, unable to break the cycle of attraction and longing.

Thinking was released on November 5, 2025, as a track on LNGSHOT's pre-debut project, the 4SHOBOIZ MIXTAPE. The group, formed under Jay Park's label MORE VISION, used this mixtape to showcase the individual talents and chemistry of its members before their official debut in early 2026. This specific track features Ryul (the main rapper) and Louis (the main vocalist), highlighting the dynamic between the group's rap and vocal lines.

The song was produced by the renowned producer BRLLNT, known for his work in the K-pop and K-hip-hop scenes, who helped craft the track's sophisticated R&B soundscape. Both Ryul and Louis participated in the songwriting process, adding a layer of personal authenticity to the lyrics. The track was designed to introduce the public to the members' 'musical color'—specifically Ryul's distinct flow (self-referenced as 'Ryul style') and Louis's vocal tone—establishing their identity as 'Shot Callers' in the making.

The song follows a consistent 4/4 time signature with a laid-back, syncopated rhythm that sits comfortably in the 'chill R&B' pocket. Ryul's rap verses employ a complex rhyme scheme, often utilizing multi-syllabic rhymes (e.g., matching Korean verb endings with English loanwords) to create a bouncy, percussive cadence.

The rhythm of the lyrics contrasts with the beat; while the instrumental is steady and relaxed, the rap flow frequently accelerates (double-time) before resolving back into the pocket, mimicking the feeling of a racing heart. The hook relies on a simple, repetitive melodic rhythm that is easy to sing along to, anchoring the more complex verses. The interplay between the staccato rap delivery and the legato vocal lines creates a satisfying dynamic texture known as call-and-response within the unit structure.

Musically, Thinking utilizes a laid-back, mid-tempo R&B beat characteristic of BRLLNT's production, featuring smooth synth chords and a rhythmic bassline that provides a 'groovy' foundation. A key stylistic technique is the vocal-rap juxtaposition: Ryul's delivery is sharp, rhythmic, and punchy, employing a modern trap-influenced flow, while Louis provides melodic, fluid vocals that soften the track's edges.

Literarily, the song uses repetition effectively (e.g., 'slowly, slowly, slowly') to create a hypnotic effect that mirrors the obsessive nature of 'thinking' about someone. The lyrics also switch between Korean and English ('Girl you look so fine', 'Can you feel the vibe?'), a common K-pop technique known as code-switching, which broadens the song's appeal and adds a global, cosmopolitan feel to the narrative.

As a track from LNGSHOT's pre-debut mixtape, Thinking played a crucial role in building the group's initial fanbase ('Shot Callers') before their official debut in 2026. It helped establish the group's musical identity under the MORE VISION label, demonstrating their capability to handle mature R&B/Hip-hop concepts, distinct from the more bubblegum pop sounds of some contemporaries. The song showcases the 'self-producing' idol trend, with members contributing to lyrics, which garnered respect within the K-pop community for their authenticity and artistry. It serves as a key piece of their 'origin story,' frequently cited by fans as a hidden gem that highlighted the chemistry between Ryul and Louis early on.

The lyrics employ several key symbols to articulate the complexity of the relationship:

• Rodeo: The repetition of 'Rodeo, rodeo, rodeo' is a central metaphor. It compares the relationship to a wild, bucking sport that requires skill, balance, and the ability to hold on tight despite the danger of being thrown off. It suggests excitement and instability in equal measure.
• No Plan B / No Backup: Ryul's declaration that he has 'no backup' symbolizes total commitment. It is a metaphor for a 'burn the boats' mentality, where failure is not an option and retreat is impossible, emphasizing the intensity of his devotion.
• Art/Museum: Comparing the girl's face to 'art' or 'museum-quality' elevates her beyond simple attractiveness to something precious that requires appreciation and preservation.
• 'Ryul Style': This phrase acts as a metonym for the artist's unique approach to life and love—likely direct, bold, and unyielding. It brands his persistence as a personality trait rather than just a momentary feeling.

The title word 'Thinking' and the phrase 'Think about you' act as the primary anchor, recurring throughout the chorus and outro. This repetition simulates the obsessive loop of the protagonist's mind. Another significant motif is the word 'Slowly' (repeated three times in succession), which serves as a rhythmic brake, contrasting with the urgency of the plea 'Call me up quick.' The phrase 'Ryul style' serves as a sonic signature or 'tag,' reinforcing the artist's brand identity within the pre-debut mixtape context.