From the detrimental lows to the euphoric highs, singer-songwriter, rapper, and hip-hop recording artist Shawn Cook will be there. He brings listeners into the valleys of toxic love with a new single and music video, "Stay."
From amassing millions of streams across platforms to helping his peers co-write Grammy-nominated albums, Shawn Cook's artistry stretches far and wide in the industry. He's worked with legends like Mac Dre and Snoop Dogg while blessing listeners with lyrical masterpieces that never fail to strike a relatable chord.
In his newest single, "Stay," listeners can hear a more introspective and emotional side of Cook as he dissects the games, ultimatums, and toxic experiences within a relationship. It's a transcendent single that lifts the listener into the celestials with sonically delicious production and unmatched vocal delivery.
Shawn Cook also released a music video for the song "Stay," which depicts his unique perception of the situation. As most of the video is played in reverse, Shawn Cook presents how we may try to get ourselves out of toxic situations, but we can't help but reverse back into the cycle when times get tough.
The music video is equally as introspective as the song, taking viewers through the lows of these experiences and watching how Shawn Cook falls back into a cycle he's tried to beat. The black and white scenes give the video a more jaded and melancholy feel, perfectly representing that relatable battle between love, lust, and loss. It's a compelling visual experience that any viewer can appreciate.
When you're not sure whether to "Stay" or go, allow Shawn Cook to help you prepare for what's to come with his latest single and music video. Find "Stay" on all digital streaming platforms and the music video on YouTube.
Welcome to BuzzMusic, Shawn Cook. We're truly impressed with the conceptual take on toxic relationships you've delivered in your new single, "Stay." What compelled or inspired you to create this deeply personal single?
Man, I’m happy to be here with BuzzMusic, Thanks for the opportunity. First off, I had to make myself vulnerable because, as a man, it's not common to express true feelings in music. My love for Claudette, the ups and downs in the relationship, abandonment issues, co-dependency, and not wanting to be alone inspired “STAY.” I’m also a hopeless romantic by nature. FYI lol.
What was the most challenging part about creating "Stay?" Were there any emotional obstacles or hurdles you had to jump when writing the song?
The most challenging part was actually leaving home to pursue not only my mental wellness but also pursue my career. Yes, emotionally, I had obstacles because my mind was and still is dealing with the hurt of the breakup. Music/lyrics come easy to me. It's who I am.
How did you come up with the reverse concept for the "Stay" music video? Why did this particular concept speak to you?
The reverse concept stemmed from me always going back. So in the video, the beginning is actually the ending. I’m pretty sure people can relate to leaving a situation physically but mentally still there. They say, “Home is where the heart is, so in this case, Claudette was my home, so I always go back.
Who helped you create the music video for "Stay?" Did you have a team help bring your vision to life?
The treatment was written by myself, and my team helped me bring my vision to life. In the end, it was a mutual effort that turned into an amazing visual.
What can listeners anticipate to hear next from you?
This a concept album. Listeners can anticipate hearing more music about the ups and downs of the relationships I’ve been in, ending with Claudette.
