Malachi Gagnon‘s new single “Stay” is a raw and dynamic addition to the roots-rock scene, showcasing his undeniable talent and emotive depth. With the track, Gagnon delves deep into the struggle of longing and the complex emotions tied to love and loss. The song begins with delicate guitar, immediately capturing attention and setting a powerful backdrop for Gagnon’s soaring vocals that resonate with vulnerability and defiance.
Lyrically, “Stay” explores the tension between clinging to a fading relationship and the inevitable push to let go. The chorus hits like a gut punch—Gagnon’s plea for connection, mixed with the realization that staying might only deepen the pain. This contrast is mirrored in the instrumentation, where moments of quiet tension give way to explosive, cathartic climaxes. It’s a perfect blend of indie-folk sensibilities with a touch of alt-rock influence, reminiscent of bands like Nirvana and Foo Fighters, but with a fresh, contemporary edge. This mixture perfectly showcases Malachi Gagnon’s own unique sound.
What sets “Stay” apart is its ability to convey a deeply personal experience while remaining universally relatable. Though young, Gagnon shows depth and maturity in his lovestruck lyricism. Gagnon possesses the unique ability to make vulnerability sound powerful, and it is this that elevates the track beyond just another breakup song—it’s a statement of resilience in the face of emotional chaos.
“Stay” marks a strong chapter in Malachi Gagnon’s career, highlighting his potential as an artist unafraid to explore the complexities of human emotion, while finding a sound somewhere between Noah Kahan and Nirvana. For fans of roots-rock, this is a track worth revisiting.