Shawn Cook's latest release, "That's Right," is a thought-provoking blend of pop, rap, and hip-hop that speaks to the exhaustion of living in a world that never seems to rest.
Produced by Grammy-nominated producer Press Playy—now signed to Akon's Konvict Muzik—the track is both an introspective anthem and a sonic journey through self-discovery.
The song chronicles a pivotal night in Cook's life. Caught in an endless cycle of parties and superficial encounters, he reaches a breaking point, yearning for something deeper and more meaningful.
The catchy chorus, "I just need one before I turn off the lights, that's right," embodies his longing for an authentic connection before stepping away from the noise. Musically, "That's Right" fuses smooth melodies with a driving rhythm, creating a dynamic atmosphere that mirrors the internal conflict Cook narrates.
The track's production balances vibrant, danceable beats with contemplative undertones, capturing the push and pull between the allure of the spotlight and the need for genuine peace.
Given his rich musical journey, Shawn Cook's lyrical depth is no surprise. From his early days in Vallejo, California, to collaborations with hip-hop legends like Snoop Dogg and B-Real, Cook has always been a storyteller with a message.
With "That's Right," he invites listeners to reflect on their lives, urging them to recognize when it's time to leave the endless party behind. This song powerfully reminds us that sometimes, knowing when to step away is the ultimate act of growth.
"That's Right" explores the theme of breaking free from repetitive party scenes. What personal experiences or moments inspired you to write this song?
So, while on tour, the next stop was in a city in Florida, where we performed at a local bar and had a successful show performance. Not wanting the party to end, we continued the gathering at a friend’s house. Being the introvert I am, while the after-party was still going on, I was sitting alone, focused on one person the whole night. I spoke, she answered; we separated ourselves from the crowd and talked until the sun arose, and the rest was history.
I’m not excited by material things or anything temporary. Building a connection with someone beautiful means more to me than just fun for now. At some point, the party must end.
Grammy-nominated producer Press Playy produced the track. How did his collaboration shape the final sound of "That's Right," and what was it like working with someone from Akon's Konvict Muzik?
I’ve been working with Press Playy for numerous years now, and when working with producers, I like to build a relationship with them so we understand each other, and that’s exactly what happened in this situation. So when writing the song “That’s Right,” after hearing it for the first time, I knew where Playy wanted to take it, so that’s where the magic began.
You mention that the song reflects the desire for a more authentic connection. How does this theme tie into your journey as an artist and your growth over the years?
I’ve been performing since I was a kid. My career started early in life, so the party was always there. I’ve matured tremendously in life and in my career as the years passed. I know what’s important now and what failure/success looks like.
For me personally, partying, in some ways, stifled my career being young and participating in “grown-up” activities. I wouldn’t change any of it looking back, and this song is my maturity and how I approach things now.
Your music blends elements of pop, rap, and hip-hop. How do you approach genre fusion in your music, and how does "That's Right" showcase this versatility?
It’s funny you say “Fusion”… I wrote hooks for rappers with millions of streams, I wrote a pop song that went gold, and my Grammy nomination came from reggae music. I feel this experience gives me fusing abilities/talents. Writing is my gift of expression.
So this free spirit allows me to sing/recite from the heart, and however the music makes me feel, the fusion begins there. “That's Right” has me reciting my truth, singing/harmonizing inside grooves, and also rapping inside a pocket behind Press Playy melodies/chords.
With your upcoming EP and other singles generating buzz, what message do you want listeners to take away from 'That's Right' and your new project?
My core fan base knows that I’m a “hopeless romantic.” “That’s Right” is me basically saying I’d rather make a connection with a beautiful female and disappear rather than be at this party all night.
My upcoming EP, Concrete Rose, is an alternative project about my personal experience with love and heartbreak. It features live instrumentation and was entirely produced by an excellent musician named James Clark.