About the song
Introducing the mesmerizing live performance of “The Load Out” and “Stay” by the incomparable Jackson Browne, recorded during his appearance on BBC in 1978. This captivating rendition showcases Browne’s extraordinary talent and magnetic stage presence, offering a glimpse into the magic of his live performances.
“The Load Out” and “Stay” are both featured on Browne’s iconic album “Running on Empty,” released in 1977. The album, recorded entirely on the road, captures the essence of life as a touring musician and has since become a cornerstone of Browne’s illustrious career.
“The Load Out,” penned by Browne himself, serves as a heartfelt tribute to the road crew and musicians who bring his music to life night after night. Its poignant lyrics and soulful melody paint a vivid picture of the trials and triumphs of life on tour, resonating deeply with fans around the world.
As for “Stay,” another gem from the same album, it showcases Browne’s prowess as a songwriter and performer. This timeless ballad, with its haunting lyrics and emotive vocals, has captured the hearts of listeners for generations, earning Browne widespread acclaim and accolades throughout his career.
During its release, “Running on Empty” soared to the top of the charts, solidifying Browne’s status as one of the most influential artists of his time. And this live performance on BBC only further cements his reputation as a masterful musician and storyteller.
So, whether you’re a lifelong fan of Jackson Browne or discovering his music for the first time, this live rendition of “The Load Out” and “Stay” is sure to leave a lasting impression. Sit back, relax, and let Browne’s soul-stirring performance transport you to a world of music and memories.
Video
Lyrics
People stay just a little bit longer
We want to play — just a little bit longer
Now the promoter don’t mind
And the union don’t mind
If we take a little time
And we leave it all behind and sing
One more songNow the seats are all empty
Let the roadies take the stage
Pack it up and tear it down
They’re the first to come and last to leave
Working for that minimum wage
They’ll set it up in another town
Tonight the people were so fine
They waited there in line
And when they got up on their feet they made the show
And that was sweet–
But I can hear the sound
Of slamming doors and folding chairs
And that’s a sound they’ll never know
Now roll them cases out and lift them amps
Haul them trusses down and get’em up them ramps
‘Cause when it comes to moving me
You guys are the champs
But when that last guitar’s been packed away
You know that I still want to play
So just make sure you got it all set to go
Before you come for my piano
But the band’s on the bus
And they’re waiting to go
We’ve got to drive all night and do a show in Chicago
or Detroit, I don’t know
We do so many shows in a row
And these towns all look the same
We just pass the time in our hotel rooms
And wander ’round backstage
Till those lights come up and we hear that crowd
And we remember why we came
Now we got country and western on the bus
R and B, we got disco in eight tracks and cassettes in stereo
We’ve got rural scenes & magazines
We’ve got truckers on the CB
We’ve got Richard Pryor on the video
We got time to think of the ones we love
While the miles roll away
But the only time that seems too short
Is the time that we get to play
People you’ve got the power over what we do
You can sit there and wait
Or you can pull us through
Come along, sing the song
You know you can’t go wrong
‘Cause when that morning sun comes beating down
You’re going to wake up in your town
But we’ll be scheduled to appear
A thousand miles away from here