There is a sense of pensive melancholy as the wail of Keyon Harrold's trumpet pushes its way past the Hitchcock-esquepiano that sets the tone for "Stay This Way." With Philadelphia singer Bilal and Southern rapper Big K.R.I.T. contributing vocals, the song asks if euphoric moments are meant to last, or if they're naturally fleeting.
Near the beginning of the track, Bilal sings almost waveringly:
Times like this
Shine like golden
Carry on
I love you
Nights of bliss
And as time
Unfolds
Into an illusion
The present is a memory
Just be still
And stay this way
This is a love song, but not a typical one. Rather than speaking on a current moment in time, the track seems to be more about a fading memory. There is a feeling of regret running deep, along with a sense that the singer is stuck in the past.
Bilal's unorthodox delivery works in tandem with the often-unpredictable nature of the instrumental accompaniment; drum licks sprout up out of nowhere and disappear just as quickly. Though the sentiment of loss is present throughout, the feelings this song elicits seem sure to stick with you long after the final note rings.
Keyon Harrold kicks off his Blue Note residency this month with two shows each night, starting Jan. 10 with Bilal and Big K.R.I.T.
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