The Sugarland Stay song was released in September 2007 ...watch the official music video and see the lyrics and song details here.
The Sugarland Stay song was released in September 2007 as the fourth and final single from their album “Enjoy the Ride”. “Stay” was written by the lead vocalist Jennifer Nettles. Overall, the song is the group’s eighth single to enter the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, where it reached a peak position of #2 for four weeks, stuck behind Taylor Swift’s “Our Song”. This tune became the duo’s signature song.
Its raw emotion, stripped-down production, and poignant storytelling captured the hearts of fans and critics alike, earning it multiple accolades and a lasting place in country music history. The music video for “Stay” was ranked #10 on CMT’s 100 Greatest Videos and is the most popular music video of their career with over 214 million views as of December of 2024.
The music video for “Stay” is as minimalist and intimate as the song itself. Directed by Shaun Silva, it features Jennifer Nettles delivering an emotional performance in a single room with a plain backdrop. This simplicity allows the focus to remain entirely on Nettles’ facial expressions and the raw emotion in her voice. Nettles’ acting in the video is phenomenal, as she breaks down in tears, further emphasizing the pain and inner turmoil of the character. The close-up shots create an intimate connection with viewers, making them feel as though they’re witnessing a private moment of heartbreak. The video’s authenticity earned it the CMA Award for Music Video of the Year in 2008.
Watch the music video and see the written lyrics below.
“Stay” is unique because it’s told from the perspective of “the other woman” in an extramarital affair. Rather than glorifying or excusing her actions, the song delves into her heartbreak, vulnerability, and eventual empowerment. Jennifer Nettles wrote the song herself, inspired by classic country storytelling that emphasizes deep emotional honesty.
The lyrics reveal a woman pleading with her lover to stay, only to realize that she deserves better. Lines like “Why don’t you stay? I’m down on my knees” are filled with anguish, while the turning point comes when she sings, “I can’t take it any longer / But my will is getting stronger.” This moment of self-realization resonates with anyone who has experienced a one-sided or unhealthy relationship.
This was the first song in Sugarland’s career to be written solely by Jennifer Nettles.
I’ve been sitting here staring at the clock on the wall
And I’ve been laying here praying, praying she won’t call
It’s just another call from home
And you’ll get it and be gone
And I’ll be crying
And I’ll be begging you, baby
Beg you not to leave
But I’ll be left here waiting
With my Heart on my sleeve
Oh, for the next time we’ll be here
Seems like a million years
And I think I’m dying
What do I have to do to make you see
She can’t love you like me?
Why don’t you stay
I’m down on my knees
I’m so tired of being lonely
Don’t I give you what you need
When she calls you to go
There is one thing you should know
We don’t have to live this way
Baby, why don’t you stay
You keep telling me, baby
There will come a time
When you will leave her arms
And forever be in mine
But I don’t think that’s the truth
And I don’t like being used and I’m tired of waiting
It’s too much pain to have to bear
To love a man you have to share
Why don’t you stay
I’m down on my knees
I’m so tired of being lonely
Don’t I give you what you need
When she calls you to go
There is one thing you should know
We don’t have to live this way
Baby, why don’t you stay
I can’t take it any longer
But my will is getting stronger
And I think I know just what I have to do
I can’t waste another minute
After all that I’ve put in it
I’ve given you my best
Why does she get the best of you
So next time you find you wanna leave her bed for mine
Why don’t you stay
I’m up off my knees
I’m so tired of being lonely
You can’t give me what I need
When she begs you not to go
There is one thing you should know
I don’t have to live this way
Baby, why don’t you stay, yeah
Over 15 years after its release, “Stay” remains one of Sugarland’s most beloved songs. Its timeless message of self-worth and empowerment continues to inspire audiences, while its simple yet effective production ensures it never feels dated.
Remember to “Share” the Sugarland Stay song with other Country Music fans.