What makes Stay by Dave Matthews Band notable?

The single became a significant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. Its memorable melody and lyrical depth have made it a staple at live performances, influencing a generation of jam band music. Released in 1998, 'Stay' was part of Dave Matthews Band's commercial peak following the success of their 1996 album, 'Crash'. This single showcased their growing popularity, solidifying their presence in mainstream rock while continuing to explore complex emotional themes.

How many songs are on Stay?

Stay has 3 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

Stay

Dave Matthews Band · 1998

14 min · 3 tracks · rock music

A blend of laid-back rock grooves and introspective lyrics that encapsulate the band's signature sound.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Stay (Wasting Time) (edit) — This radio edit captures the essence of the album, highlighting its catchy chorus and relatable themes of longing and uncertainty. The track's infectious energy showcases the band's ability to blend rock with pop sensibilities.
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Stay (Wasting Time) (album edit) — The album version expands on the radio edit, offering deeper instrumentation and extended musical improvisation that reflects the band's live performance ethos. This track exemplifies their signature style of combining intricate guitar work with emotive storytelling.
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Lover Lay Down — This track stands out for its poignant lyrical exploration of love and vulnerability, showcasing Matthews' evocative songwriting. The lush arrangements create an intimate atmosphere that complements the song's emotional weight.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

56 /100

Foothills

Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong melodies and solid production but lacks the depth of a full album experience.

What we noticed

The main track features a prominent use of syncopated rhythms and layered instrumentation, creating a rich texture that supports the vocal lines.
The song's structure includes a repeated chorus that anchors the listener while allowing for instrumental improvisation in the verses.
The album edit of 'Stay' extends the outro with additional instrumental sections, enhancing its laid-back feel.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Showcased the band's growing popularity and solidified their presence in the music scene.
Themes: emotional longing· intimate relationships· fleeting moments
Career context: Released in 1998, 'Stay' was part of Dave Matthews Band's commercial peak following the success of their 1996 album, 'Crash'. This single showcased their growing popularity, solidifying their presence in mainstream rock while continuing to explore complex emotional themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Phish· Widespread Panic· The String Cheese Incident