Highrise Looks Back at The Journey of Growing Up in ‘Young Man’

Return of Highrise coincided with the release of his newest single ‘Young Man.’ a fusion of rap with rock music. The song features modern drum beats paired with an enticing guitar arpeggio along with powerful and smooth vocals. It is an internal exploration of one’s youth- of making mistakes, taking risks, and growing wiser.

Inspired from his late grandfather, “Young Man” is more than just a tune about youthful carefree behavior. It is a self reflection on family background and the different meanings that family milestones bring. As Highrise embarks on an important milestone – getting married, engaging in self reflection, and reminiscing on the growth and loss that he experienced throughout his 20s – he taps into the emotions of looking back on his past. The track’s poignant message is captured in the line, “take it from me I’ve been down this road, but if you’re like me then likely you won’t, find what you seek ’til you learn for yourself, the path that burns least as you walk through Hell.” In my opinion, I interpret that as there is no shortcut to achieving your goal except based on the sacrifices you are prepared to make.

In “Young Man”, he exhibits more of a sultry side and goes beyond rapping, which is quite a departure from his previous works. Highrise is maturing as a vocalist and a producer. He recorded the song at his home studio at Kansas City, and as expected, the chorus consists of clean vocals mixed with a distinct dub, which gives it texture.

Any fan of MGK, Ryan Caraveo, and Bryce Vine, “Young Man” is a song worth listening to. This leap grants listeners access into raw emotions entwined with utmost artistry, which is unreal to think about. It’s great to see Highrise develop clothes on his skeleton outline of previous works.