Sly & The Family Stone – If You Want Me To Stay (1973)

About the song

“If You Want Me to Stay” by Sly & The Family Stone is a funky and soulful anthem that has stood the test of time since its release in 1973. This groovy track is part of the album “Fresh,” which showcases Sly & The Family Stone’s innovative blend of funk, soul, and rock.

Sly Stone, the mastermind behind the band, wrote and produced “If You Want Me to Stay,” infusing it with his signature style and infectious energy. With its irresistible bassline, catchy guitar riffs, and smooth vocals, the song embodies the essence of 1970s funk music while maintaining a timeless quality that continues to captivate listeners today.

Upon its release, “If You Want Me to Stay” climbed the charts, peaking at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 3 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart. Its success solidified Sly & The Family Stone’s reputation as trailblazers in the music industry, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its irresistible groove and universal message of independence and self-respect. Its influence can be heard in countless funk and R&B tracks that followed, cementing its status as a classic of the genre.

For fans of funk and soul music, “If You Want Me to Stay” remains a must-listen, offering a glimpse into Sly & The Family Stone’s groundbreaking sound and the cultural impact they had on the music scene of the 1970s. With its infectious rhythm and infectious energy, this timeless track continues to inspire and delight listeners of all ages.

Video

Lyrics

If you want me to stay,
I’ll be around today,
to be available for you to see.
But I am about to go,
And then you’ll know,
For me to stay here I got to be me.

You’ll never be in doubt,
That’s what it’s all about,
You can’t take me for granted and smile.
Count the days I’m gone
Forget reachin’ me by phone
Because I promise I’ll be gone for a while.

And when you see me again,
I hope that you have been,
The kind of person….that you really are now.
Got to get in straight,
How could I ever be late,
When you’re my woman taking up my time.

Whoa, oh how could I ever allow,
I guess I wonder how,
I could get out a pocket for fun. HOW HOW!!
When you know that you’re never number two,
Number one’s gonna be number one,
ohh oww oohh

I’ll be good,
I wish I could
I get this message over to you now.
ahhh, yeah, message, mmmm
When you see me again,
I hope that you have been,
The kind of person you really are now.
I’ll be so good, oh
I wish I could,
I get this message over to you now.

ahhh, yeah…..