Zedd and Alessia Cara join forces on enjoyable, new single, “Stay.” 

2016 saw Alessia Cara has become a breakout star who appeals to both pop and urban audiences.  “Here” was the song that put the youthful Canadian on the map, but she’d go on to experience numerous hit.  As for Zedd, he’s pretty awesome in his own right, producing hits for numerous folks, including Selena Gomez.  The collaboration of Zedd and Alessia Cara on single “Stay” is successful all in all.

“Stay” opens mysteriously with humming vocals.  Soon enough, Cara gets to work, setting up her tale of desire.  No, Cara doesn’t give off hardcore, sensual vibes – she simply wants him to stay despite the fact that he’s going.  She’s clearly attached, and she admits her shortcomings:

“Won’t admit what I already know / I’ve never been the best at letting go / I don’t wanna spend the night alone / Guess I need you…”

While Alessia Cara sounds exceptional on the verses, her bread is buttered on the chorus, clearly the crème de la crème of “Stay”:

“All you have to do is stay a minute / Just take your time / The clock is ticking, so stay / All you have to do is wait a second / Your hands on mine / The clock is ticking, so stay.”

Cara does her part to make “Stay” great, but so does Zedd.  The production plays to Cara’s strengths as an artist, straddling genres.  Never overproduced, Zedd has a knack for balance.  The effects surrounding the lead vocals, as well as the percussive touches are top-notch.  “Stay” always sounds in control, never crossing the fine line.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “Stay” gives Zedd and Alessia Cara another potential hit.  Both musicians are at their best, creating a magical collaboration.  “Stay” isn’t the second coming – calling it transcendent would be an overstatement – but it’s pretty darn good, to say the least.

Zedd & Alessia Cara • Stay – single • Interscope • Release: 2.24.17

Photo Credit: Interscope