Isaiah Sharkey shows his talent as a multi-instrumentalist and producer on his latest single, “Stay”. The acclaimed guitarist plays every instrument on the smooth R&B track and passionately croons the song’s romantic lyrics.
Premiered ahead of his residency at the famed Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City, “Stay” is the lead single off Sharkey’s third album. The song’s warm vintage sound is both timeless and fresh, with a hypnotic and harmonically simple but emotionally rich chord progression and buttery smooth vocals. Its lyrics tell the story of two star-crossed lovers, initially inspired by a real-life meet-cute.
“It was inspired by an encounter that I had on a cruise ship,” Isaiah said. “Meeting a woman and connecting. You know, speaking and just having great conversation. I embellished on that story of two people meeting on a cruise and falling in love and not wanting to leave. And they end up staying together forever. It’s inspired by that story and ‘Voyage To Atlantis’ by The Isleys.”
Despite his virtuosity, Sharkey favors taste over talent, complementing his own singing with lyrical guitar licks, though his chops shine through as the song gains energy in a final crescendo.
With its balance of soulful feeling and technical skill, “Stay” proves why Isaiah Sharkey is one of the world’s most respected guitarists, especially among guitarists, while showing him to be so much more than that.
Listen to “Stay” by Isaiah Sharkey in the player below.
Isaiah Sharkey – “Stay”
Isaiah Sharkey will conclude his residency at Blue Note Jazz Club with two shows tonight, Sunday, May 22nd. He has upcoming tour dates in the U.S. and Europe and will appear at Blue Note Jazz Festival Napa Valley. To purchase tickets, visit his website.
Among the highlights of Sharkey and company’s upcoming tour schedule is a stop at beloved St. Augustine, FL destination event Fool’s Paradise on June 4th and 5th. Sharkey will perform two sets at St. Augustine Amphitheatre on June 5th alongside Umphrey’s McGee, Lettuce, Andy Frasco & The U.N., and Jennifer Hartswick & Nick Cassarino. For tickets and more information, head here.
