4 Only

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4 Only is Lee Hi’s third Korean-language studio album and her fourth overall. It was released on September 9, 2021, through AOMG. This was her first studio album since Seoulite (2016) and her first collection of new material since the 2019 EP 24°C after leaving YG Entertainment. The album’s pre-release single “Only” came out on August 27, 2021, and the main single “Red Lipstick” (featuring Yoon Mi-rae) was released with the album on September 9.

Musically, 4 Only moves toward synth-pop and jazz, exploring different kinds of love with changing emotions in each track. Notable songs include the Latin-flavored “Intentions,” the fast-tempo “Waterride” with a strong guitar rhythm, and “Savior,” which features B.I and jazz influences. “Red Lipstick” has a retro vibe inspired by South Korea’s R&B/hip-hop duo Tashannie. The release also notes that “Savior” was planned as a second pre-release single but was delayed; its music video arrived September 3, and the song released with the rest of the album on September 9.

The album debuted at number 18 on the Gaon Album Chart in October 2021 after the physical release, selling over 8,000 copies in the last week of September. Promotion included performances on M Countdown, Music Bank, Show! Music Core, and Inkigayo around the album’s release week.

Critical reception was mixed. IZM’s Kim Seong-yeop gave 4 Only 2.5/5, saying it’s pleasant and shows a new side of Lee Hi but doesn’t have a strong standout track. Another IZM reviewer rated the lead single “Only” 3/5, praising Lee’s refined singing. NME’s Angela Destori Suacillo gave the album 5/5, calling it cohesive, true to Lee Hi’s roots, and a strong exploration of new genres.