Umphrey’s McGee previews new song ‘Staircase’ as limited edition NFT

Umphrey’s McGee is giving fans a chance to preview their new single, “Staircase,” before the song is officially released on digital streaming services. The sextet’s first new music from 2023 can be purchased as a limited edition NFT via Sound.XYZ for the next 72 hours.

Those who purchase the digital collectible will win one of three physical 12″ x 12″ strip autographed prints of the cover shot by Barry Butler or a 1/1 Golden Egg edition with unique art. In addition, buyers will receive first listen access to future releases from Umphrey’s McGee. Purchases are limited to the total number purchased during the 72-hour window.

“On average, it takes about ~6,300 streams of a song *per listener* to earn ~$20,” reads a note from the band on Umphreys.com. “So it’s safe to say that we greatly appreciate the support as we experiment with how best to put focus and value where it should be…on the music.”

Bassist Ryan Stasik and guitarist Brendan Bayliss each contributed to writing “Staircase”, a song that has yet to be performed live by Umphrey’s McGee. Both members weighed in on the creation of “Staircase”, recalling:

Ryan Stasik:

“I had been writing a lot during the covid lockdown. After a nice morning surf session I came back to the studio and came up with two parts on the TonePad app on my iPhone. Thought it was pretty cool and added some drum loops, some Moog Taurus bass lines and some synth bass . Sent it to Bayliss and asked if he could add anything or work his magic. He did.”

Brendan Bayliss:

“During the lockdown we were sending musical ideas back and forth. Ryan sent his demo and I immediately knew there was real potential. I recorded some vocals over his parts and a few months later I was messing around with what is now the chorus section. When I put the two together, I knew we had just finished a new song, one that didn’t sound like anything else we were working on at the time.”

“Staircase” arrives on umlive.net tomorrow (Thursday, February 16) and on all digital streaming platforms on Friday, February 17. February. Hear a taste of the tune below: