Stay Another Day by East 17 might be a Christmas classic - but many don't know about the real heartbreaking meaning behind the song after a band member suffered a devastating loss
East 17’s Stay Another Day has become a bonafide Christmas classic since it topped the UK charts in 1994, but many fans may not realise the heartbreaking story behind the iconic Christmas hit. Written by the band’s lead songwriter, Tony Mortimer, the song was actually inspired by the tragic loss of his brother, Ollie, who took his own life.
Despite its heavy inspiration, Stay Another Day has resonated with audiences as a song about loss, longing, and reflection, particularly during the festive season. The song was an instant hit on its release, reaching Number 1 in the UK charts and staying there for five weeks. Its emotional lyrics, paired with a simple yet striking music video featuring the band in white puffer jackets against a black background with falling snow, captured the mood of the season and cemented its place as a Christmas classic.
The poignant lyrics, including lines like, “Baby if you’ve got to go away, I don’t think I can take the pain. Won’t you stay another day,” are originally about Tony’s grief and yearning for his brother, though they’ve taken on a universal meaning for fans over the years.
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