Song Exploder Sam Smith - Stay With Me
17 snips
Jul 24, 2024 
Sam Smith, a Grammy and Oscar-winning singer from London, reflects on the creation of their iconic hit "Stay With Me" alongside collaborator Jimmy Napes. They delve into the song's emotional origins, sharing the struggles and pivotal moments that fueled its creation. The duo reveals innovative techniques used to create a choral effect with just two voices and discuss the song’s transformation over the years. Sam also reflects on their journey of self-discovery and how the lyrics evolved to align with their identity as a non-binary artist.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Sam Smith's Pact
- Before writing "Stay With Me," Sam Smith worked in a bar and made a pact with themself to leave London if their music career didn't take off within a year.
- They then met Jimmy Napes, and their collaboration led to Smith's first hit, "Lay Me Down," changing their lives.
Label's Oversight
- After early success, Smith's label tried pairing them with other writers, overlooking the unique chemistry with Napes.
- Smith felt the music they were making lacked an anthemic quality, despite working with established pop writers.
The Power of Simplicity
- "Stay With Me" began with Tourist playing three simple chords on the piano that resonated deeply with Smith.
- Smith describes feeling that the chords' simplicity left room for honest expression.