Listen: East 17 - 'Stay Another Day' (2024 Remaster)

on Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Words: Saam Das

There are few more iconic Christmas songs in the UK than East 17's unexpectedly beautiful 'Stay Another Day', largely written in reference to the passing of band member Tony Mortimer's brother. Thirty years on from its successful battle against Mariah Carey's seminal 'All I Want For Christmas Is You' for the 1994 Christmas Number One slot in the UK, 'Stay Another Day' has had a polish in the form of a new remaster and re-release.

An "edgy" boyband, the group were hitherto known best for their more dance and hip-hop inspirations, impressively garnering a Mercury Music Prize nomination for their debut album 'Walthamstow'. Take that, Take That. However, it has been 'Stay Another Day' that has endured most from their back catalogue, and arguably understandably so, with its deeply poignant lyrics contrasted with ever uplifting tubular bells.

No matter the quality of the original, it's questionable whether a thirty year re-release was truly necessary but the band and their label London Records have at least put a bit of effort in - releasing the track on ice clear 7" vinyl, as well as an amusing ode to their iconic video in the form of a bauble that features Lego minifigures of the band adorned in parka jackets. Sadly, all sold out now, but for the good cause of raising money for music therapy charity, Nordoff and Robbins.

East 17 - 'Stay Another Day' (2024 Remaster)

'Stay Another Day' (2024 remaster) is out now via east17.tmstor.es

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