Conor Maynard & SDJM Get Nostalgic On “That Way:” Premiere

Mike Nied | January 18, 2018 10:47 am

Conor Maynard and SDJM get more than a little nostalgic on their infectious new single, “That Way.” The up-and-coming producers are soaring high after finding breakout success with “The Heat” in 2017. Sampling Whitney Houston’s beloved “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” the duo stole the show with their bold reinterpretation. Their latest collaboration follows a similar trend and is bound for even bigger success.

This time around they have joined forces with Conor to put a fresh spin on the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way.” The iconic ’90s anthem remains a favorite for fans of the boy band, and the newly reworked version is likely to introduce it to a new generation of followers.

“We grew up during the boyband generation, being very influenced by pop sounds, so this track is special for us,” SDJM explained. However, instead of simply covering it, they wanted to present the enduring release in a bold new way. “We were able to evolve that sound, mixing in our own dance style and adding fresh pop vocals from Conor Maynard. The first time we heard Conor’s voice on the track we knew we found the perfect vocalist to put a powerful and modern spin on the record.”

“You are my fire, the one desire. Believe when I say I want it that way,” he croons over atmospheric finger snaps and sweet keys on the opening lines. His voice is appropriately tinged with longing and swells with emotion as he shows off his full range. SDJM’s production pays tribute to the song’s sound but simultaneously offers a more current interpretation by transforming the tender ballad into a shimmering EDM track. A racing beat and sugary synths whirl underneath the sweet vocals as it progresses. Things build up to a sudden drop before the beat returns and takes over for a defiantly joyful instrumental break.

Wildly fun, “That Way” could become as massive a hit for SDJM and Conor in 2018 as it was for BSB in 1999. Hopefully, they bring things to life in an accompanying video. There are so many opportunities to pay tribute to the classic style of the era as evidenced by Bruno Mars and Cardi B’s “Finesse” visual. Anything they release is sure to be drenched in bold colors and is bound to be a great time.

Conor shared some love for the boy band ahead of the release and revealed he was looking forward to fans getting a taste of his latest hit. “Can’t wait for you all to hear it, and feel some of that Backstreet Boy love,” Conor teased. We are excited to have teamed up with them to provide a first listen to the track. Give “That Way” a spin up top and prepare to take a trip down memory lane.

:Are U :Ready ? #thatway @conormaynard

A post shared by S :D J :M (@sdjmmusic) on

Do you love the song? Let us know below, or by hitting us up on Facebook and Twitter!