Stay Has Three Different Takes on The Same Complex Themes.

According to the creator, SID OTTO, Stay is about “not giving up too easily and not taking yourself too seriously in all kinds of aspects of life, like relationships, goals, work” with such a variety of themes, both personal and universal at the same time, it makes sense why the track comes with three different versions with an entirely different tone. 

The original track has an alternative pop leaning, building these musical motifs that rise and fall through the melody and vocal performance, creating this sense of unity. The track also uses harmonies to make a full sound and expand the sonic tapestry of the track. The harmonies have a higher register, allowing for a greater exploration of OTTO’s timbre. They also add personality and new shades to his charismatic performance, breaking through in these high-register moments in the track. The song also uses this dramatic tonal shift, switching to a deeper timbre during certain moments. This shift, accompanied lolby a beautiful hi-hat, adds a high register hiss, juxtaposing the direction the track is moving in and producing sonic tension. 

The reggae version of Stay slows the track down substantially, creating a counter rhythm similar to skank, a staple of reggae music. The way the syncopated brass moves between the rhythm and melody creates a bouncy energy that makes you want to nod your head. The increased emphasis on brass instrumentation is another strong point that ties the track together.

The dance version adds a marching synth melody with a shiny, bright timbre and a bold rhythmic line that stands out and redefines the landscape of the track. The vocal harmonies are matched by the harmonies of the synths. They layer and stack on top of one another, intertwining in a way that elevates each composition layer through the contrast of the other. 

The diversity that OTTO has created sonically across three versions of the same song is impressive. Listening to the same complex theme from three different musical perspectives is a unique experience that stands out amongst musical contemporaries across each genre OTTO explores.