Song meaning of STAY by The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber

"STAY" by The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber is a heartfelt song that delves into themes of regret, longing, and the fear of losing someone you deeply care about. The chorus sets the tone for the song, with The Kid LAROI expressing his desire for his partner to stay despite his past mistakes and inability to change. He acknowledges his shortcomings, singing, "I do the same thing I told you that I never would, I told you I'd change, even when I knew I never could." This line reflects the internal struggle of wanting to be better for someone but feeling trapped in a cycle of repeating past behaviors.

The verses further explore the emotional turmoil experienced by the narrators. The Kid LAROI describes feeling lost and wasted without his partner, emphasizing the emptiness he feels when they are apart. He sings, "I get drunk, wake up, I'm wasted still, I realize the time that I wasted here," highlighting the self-destructive tendencies that stem from his longing for connection. Justin Bieber's verse adds another layer to the narrative, expressing his vulnerability and fear of messing up the relationship. He admits, "It's been difficult for me to trust, and I'm afraid that I'ma fuck it up," showcasing his insecurities and the importance of his partner's presence in his life.

The repeated refrain of "I need you to stay, need you to stay, hey" throughout the song underscores the desperation and urgency in the narrators' pleas for their partners to remain by their side. The outro brings the song to a poignant conclusion, with both artists harmonizing on the sentiment of needing their loved ones to stay.

Overall, "STAY" is a poignant ballad that captures the raw emotions of love, regret, and the fear of losing someone irreplaceable. The lyrics, coupled with the emotive vocals of The Kid LAROI and Justin Bieber, create a powerful narrative that resonates with listeners who have experienced the complexities of relationships and the struggle to hold onto what matters most.