Tony Mortimer’s emotional revelation about the inspiration behind the East 17 Christmas hit ‘Stay Another Day’ has shed new light on the beloved song’s origins. The lead songwriter of the iconic boyband shared that he wrote the chart-topping ballad in memory of his older brother Ollie, who tragically died by suicide in 1989 at the age of 22. In an exclusive interview to commemorate the song’s 30th anniversary, Tony Mortimer, now 54, expressed his ongoing grief over his brother’s passing and the comfort he finds in knowing that the song has touched the hearts of many and raised funds for charity over the years.
Reflecting on the unexpected success of ‘Stay Another Day’, Tony revealed that the song was written as a personal ballad without any intention of being released. However, the record label and listeners resonated with the track, propelling it to number one for five weeks in 1994. Tony acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the song’s popularity, stemming from a place of innocence despite its sombre origins. The Ivor Novello award-winning songwriter expressed the deep emotions he feels whenever he performs or hears the song, wishing for the chance to have one more day with his late brother to bid a final goodbye.
As ‘Stay Another Day’ marks its 30th anniversary, Tony Mortimer announced the re-release of the track on vinyl, with a percentage of profits this Christmas going towards the music therapy charity Nordoff and Robbins. Through the song’s enduring legacy, Tony aims to raise awareness about mental health issues, depression and suicide prevention, themes that remain close to his heart following his brother’s passing. The singer also highlighted the importance of music in providing hope, expression and healing, especially for children with autism, a cause that holds personal significance for him.
Despite the commercial success of East 17 in the 90s, Tony Mortimer has shifted his focus towards family and philanthropy, embracing the magic of Christmas with his loved ones. His daughters, Atlanta and Ocean, now adults, have steered clear of their father’s boyband legacy, revealing a humorous anecdote about their reluctance to be associated with his past musical career. Looking ahead to the future, Tony remains dedicated to using his music to make a positive impact and raise awareness of important social issues, carrying on the legacy of ‘Stay Another Day’ for years to come.
In conclusion, Tony Mortimer’s candid reflection on the personal tragedy that inspired ‘Stay Another Day’ offers a poignant reminder of the power of music to heal and connect people. As the song continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, its message of love, loss and remembrance transcends generations, embodying the enduring legacy of a timeless Christmas classic.