East 17 Singer Tony Mortimer Opens Up About the Emotional Impact of Hearing ‘Stay Another Day’ Every Year
East 17 singer, Tony Mortimer, recently shared the emotional toll he faces each year when he hears the group’s iconic track, ‘Stay Another Day’. Despite not originally written as a Christmas song, the heartfelt ballad topped the Christmas charts in 1994, leading to its continued presence during the festive period.
The song, with its wintery music video, resonates deeply with Mortimer as it was penned in memory of his late brother, Ollie, who took his own life. The lyrics hold a profound significance, reflecting Mortimer’s contemplation on what he would do if he had one more day with a loved one.
In a candid interview with The Independent, Mortimer expressed the ongoing challenge of confronting the song’s connection to his personal tragedy. Despite its annual resurgence, he acknowledged the bittersweet nature of its reception, as fans often share their emotional connection to the track with him.
As the 30th anniversary of ‘Stay Another Day’ approaches, Mortimer revealed plans for a re-release of the song in partnership with the music therapy charity Nordoff And Robbins. Refusing to profit solely from the re-release, Mortimer emphasized the importance of using the song’s legacy to benefit others in need.
While the song still evokes poignant memories of his brother, Mortimer finds solace in its potential to bring comfort to listeners and support charitable causes. By sharing his story, Mortimer hopes to raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding mental health struggles.
In addition, Mortimer previously re-released the song in 2019, with proceeds directed towards the mental health organisation CALM. Through his music and advocacy, Mortimer aims to honour his brother’s memory while offering support to those facing similar challenges.
For those in need of help and support, various helplines are available, including Mind, Samaritans, CALM, and The Mix, providing assistance to individuals struggling with mental health issues.
Tony Mortimer’s poignant reflections on ‘Stay Another Day’ serve as a reminder of the power of music to heal and connect individuals, transcending personal pain to offer hope and solidarity to others.
In conclusion, Mortimer’s willingness to share his personal struggles and use his platform for a greater cause showcases the transformative impact of music in promoting mental wellbeing and supporting those in need. His journey exemplifies resilience, empathy, and the enduring legacy of using art to inspire positive change.