 " Stephen " is a song composed in the dance @-@ pop genre that also incorporates elements of country music . According to digital sheet music published at Musicnotes.com by Sony @-@ ATV Music Publishing , the song is written in the key of D major and the tempo moves at 100 beats per minute at a moderately fast rate . Kesha 's vocal range in the song spans from the lower note of E3 to the higher note of D5 . The lyrics begin with Kesha singing " Stephen , Stephen , why won 't you call me ? . " The song 's lyrics depict the tale of the singer stalking her then crush , Stephen , who ultimately would not call the singer . " Stephen " opens with layered a cappella harmonies , later transitioning into a dominantly driven pop song . According to the singer , " Stephen " showcases her more vulnerable side and encompasses humor throughout its lyrics : " ' Stephen ' shows the vulnerable side of me but it 's still a funny pop song . It 's me saying I 'm totally obsessive and in love with this guy , but he 's blowing me off in a pretty funny way . " 
