STAYC Makes Bold Return in YOUNG-LUV.COM
Returning with their second mini-album YOUNG-LUV.COM, the charismatic ladies of STAYC make their remarkable comeback with the mighty single “RUN2U.” In an effort to present a new image to their fans, the sextet showcases a more intense and mature aura while keeping with their teen-fresh spirit.
Five months ago, STAYC dropped their album and title track of the same name “STEREOTYPE,” which became a massive hit through social media platforms and was often a favorite choice from song releases of 2021. Building their legacy by beating expectations of the public and reaching a wider range of genres so as to not limit themselves, STAYC continues to succeed in maximizing their respective unique characteristics with each comeback they make.
Showcase
On Monday, February 21, 2021 at 2 p.m. KST, STAYC premiered the music video and performance for their single “RUN2U” for their online media showcase. Leading the event, MC Park Kyungrim spoke with STAYC in regards to the new album YOUNG-LUV.COM and Q&A submitted by the media.
The live performance of “RUN2U” definitely looked very difficult. The choreography is so detailed and exact, it feels as if one could get lost easily if not too careful. But for STAYC, it’s evident that their talents and skills have allowed them to perfect this dance with ease.
Photo: High Up Entertainment
During the showcase, Sumin explained that their new single is, “filled with our strong desire to run to you to gain your love no matter what others say.” Sieun later added onto Sumin’s point during Q&A stating that, “The key message is our passion for love based on our daring spirit.” She continued by describing the themes of every title track release STAYC has released in comparison to their new single.“‘SO BAD’ showed immature love, ‘ASAP’ showed craving for someone to love, ‘STEREOTYPE’ showed building our ego, and ‘RUN2U’ shows the actions — that we will run to our love without worrying what others think.”
When asked if they wanted a new nickname in regards to them and their new album, STAYC shared many ideas. “All-Rounder STAYC,” said Seeun. “STAYC, Growing with Every Album,” Isa added. Sumin also added, “STAYC did STAYC, something like This Album is So STAYC.”
Tracklist
“RUN2U”
“SAME SAME”
“247”
“YOUNG LUV”
“BUTTERFLY”
“I WANT U BABY”
“RUN2U”
Written and composed by Black Eyed Pilseung, Jeon goon, Rado, and FLYT, this electronic-pop single starts off with an unexpected bass sound that explodes aggressively through the introduction. The vibrations are synonymous with how the wind feels against the skin or a rush of emotions through goosebumps. Right off the bat, fans will notice that STAYC’s signature phrase “STAYC girls, it’s going down” was omitted from this track — the producer most likely made the decision to remove it so as to not clash with the intensity of the track. “RUN2U” expresses STAYC’s feelings of running toward you without fear of love, disregarding what others might say about it. With an almost reckless approach to love, their actions are presented as confident and full of energy. The synth bass and drop parts heard throughout the track audibly give the impression of running alongside STAYC, searching for love with a burst of energy. With an upgraded and elevated sound, the growth in STAYC’s musicality is certain to take over the hearts of SWITH.
As STAYC approaches on-screen in their music video, these girls are running to their destination — a love train without fear or hesitation. The pop of bright neon colors found in their attire and stages give a glitzy appearance to STAYC’s bold concept. Through various rooms like a pink train, glamorous diamonds, flowers, and an underground garage, the girls display radiant and unspeakable confidence that cannot be fathomed. As they run through the video, STAYC rushes toward love as it explodes through their hearts. Overall, the video upon first impression and various replays feels difficult to express the emotions that rush through your mind. It’s almost as if the bold and flawless visuals paired with a hooking rhythm will become an instant hit whether you’re SWITH or not.
B-Sides
The soft-pop song “SAME SAME” gives a dreamy vibe that has ironic lyrics to it. In the line, “We share the same feelings, I don't think anything will change,” it appears they are frustrated by someone they fell in love with that doesn’t intend to do anything about the situation, despite feeling the same. It’s clear that they want them to make the first move and no longer wish to wait. With trap-pop-style beats, witty piano performances, synths, and lyrics that bounce to the beat of the track, this single feels like it could easily be in a romantic web drama. Honestly, it has a catchy tune to it that could easily be something to listen to when you’re staring off in the distance, getting lost in reality. One thing that’ll catch you off guard is finding the signature phrase of STAYC at the end of the single, so look out for it!
“247” gives off an alternative R&B sound with a flat groove synth base that’s perfect for your early mornings at the coffee shop. Written and composed by MXN, the song expresses a love that you want to be with at every hour of the day, 24/7. The line in the track, “I want to keep you by my side secretly with you, like 24/7 with you,” confirms that sentiment. It’s very gushy and romantic, which fits perfectly during the month of February. It’s new territory for STAYC, describing such deep emotions in regard to desire and never wanting to leave, but it’s a beautiful song to express it. Because believe it or not, we’ve all been there.
“YOUNG LUV” right off the bat has something different about it. During the showcase, the girls stated that the track’s genre style is something out of their comfort zone and new. The pop rock style in this B-side is very intriguing, unfolding the song’s various levels with an electric guitar. The message appears to describe the beauty and foolishness of young love, which can be difficult to grasp. The line, “You approach me clumsily and pretend to be in love, I won't be fooled again, you know I'm so bad,” adds to this theory that witless love can be difficult to overcome when it’s left a bad mark on you. With STAYC’s chic sound, this song has already become a solid favorite.
The ever-so-comforting sound that “BUTTERFLY” emits will bring peace to you at first listen. It’s so dreamy, light, and tickles the brain. The groovy beats that loop through the song mesh well with STAYC’s soft vocals, making it feel like you’re on Cloud Nine. With a line like, “Your sole existence made me dream of the sky,” it’s a clear song choice to fall in love to. Personally, it’s hard to stop looping the song for hours because of how it can make you feel.
Reaching the end of the album, “I WANT U BABY” is a slow drill-style R&B track written and composed by will.b and van.gogh. It’s a nice, sweet ending to STAYC’s various stories of love. The tune expresses the sentiment of love, so bewitching, that it’s all you think about, especially at night. The lyric, “On a starry night, I want you to be a star,” truly encapsulates thinking about someone special on a dark night, lighting up the sky because of the deep feelings in your heart.
Through every new release, STAYC’s discography has left an impact on many that have encountered their tracks, whether it be on streaming services or social media. If STAYC isn’t already on your radar, they’ll definitely be after this. After admiring their releases since debut, YOUNG-LUV.COM is certain to be a career-defining moment for STAYC due to the shift in concept, exploring their growth not only in their music but their personal lives. With every track in this new album describing various interpretations of love stories, they’ve accomplished experimenting in music styles outside of the standard. STAYC took over 2021 as a whole, so there’s certainty that STAYC will also take over 2022 as a star-lit group.
YOUNG-LUV.COM is available on streaming services like Spotify, YouTube Music, and more! Make sure to follow STAYC on their social media platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram to see about their promotions for their single “RUN2U.”