Complete 'Stay' Lyrics Breakdown: Rihanna and Mikky Ekko’s Unfiltered Duet
On February 10, 2013, Rihanna took the stage at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards alongside Ekko. Dressed in an understated black gown under dim spotlights, she delivered a performance that silenced critics who had previously labeled her as purely a studio-engineered pop voice. Her register remained steady, yet she allowed her chest voice to rasp slightly on the upper notes of the bridge.
The song became a critical turning point for her career. Critics recognized "Stay" as proof that Rihanna possessed the emotional depth and vocal control to carry a timeless standard without club-friendly production behind her. The track eventually earned multiple platinum certifications worldwide and paved the creative path toward her critically acclaimed 2016 album, Anti.
