TONY MORTIMER SURPRISES COMMUTERS AT ST. PANCRAS INTERNATIONAL WITH A MAGICAL POP-UP PERFORMANCE OF CHRISTMAS CLASSIC ‘STAY ANOTHER DAY’ WITH THE LONDON COMMUNITY GOSPEL CHOIR
Christmas came early at London’s St. Pancras International station today when Tony Mortimer played a surprise impromptu performance of the East 17 festive classic ‘Stay Another Day’, backed by the London Community Gospel Choir. Tony shocked Londoners as a huge crowd gathered to witness an unforgettable Christmas moment as Tony played on one of the station’s famous pianos which is located in its main arcade and recently donated by Andrew Lloyd Webber Musicals.
The performance comes as Tony has partnered with the music therapy charity Nordoff and Robbins to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the song’s release. Originally a #1 smash in 1994, ‘Stay Another Day’ has become an essential part of the Christmas soundtrack and has been embraced by new generations with each passing year. Not only is it an opportunity to benefit a good cause, but the campaign also allows Tony to reconnect the song with its original meaning: a poignant tribute to a lost loved one, which can allow others to connect with the comfort that it brings.
Tony Mortimer is the latest in an array of world class performers who have graced the famous pianos at St. Pancras International. Other renowned names have included Elton John (who personally gifted a piano to the station in 2016), Alicia Keys, John Legend, Jeff Goldblum and Norah Jones, as well as a special collaboration between Rod Stewart and Jools Holland. While star names often drop by for performances, the pianos are a popular attraction for the general public too, with gifted players and enthusiastic amateurs alike giving the area a lively musical atmosphere. This initiative is part of St. Pancras International’s Carolling for Causes programme, offering space and visibility between December 1st – 23rd for groups to entertain visitors while raising awareness and funds for charities.
Tony says, “What an absolute honour to follow in the footsteps of such fantastically talented artists at St. Pancras International and to do it in aid of Nordoff and Robbins, to continue to raise awareness for the great work that they do. 30 years ago, I wrote a track that was very personal to me, and I can’t believe I’m here still talking about it, performing it and seeing the public sing-a-long to it every Christmas. It was a magical experience - thank you to everyone for your continuous support”.
Recent weeks have seen ‘Stay Another Day’ steadily climbing the charts as Christmas approaches. That ascent is expected to accelerate over the coming week, with today’s release of two special edition ‘Stay Another Day’ 7” vinyl records. An ice clear vinyl has already sold-out on pre-orders alone, but a snow-white vinyl is available to buy HERE. The b-side of both versions features a previously unreleased live version of the song from East 17’s 1995 ‘Letting Off Steam’ arena tour.
The Nordoff and Robbins initiative has also seen Tony Mortimer perform at their Carol Service at St. Luke’s Church in London earlier this week. A ‘Stay Another Day’ Christmas card has been released, which is available in all of cardfactory’s UK stores as well as via www.cardfactory.co.uk. Finally, an extremely limited edition minifigure bauble to commemorate 30 years of ‘Stay Another Day’ pays homage to its iconic music video, and instantly sold-out.
Nordoff and Robbins’ music therapists use the power of music to create space for people to express themselves and find connection in society. From young people navigating mental health challenges, to adults with dementia reconnecting with family, and autistic children finding their voice, both Tony Mortimer and Nordoff and Robbins believes that everyone should have access to music therapy, because it can, quite simply, transform people’s lives.