Watch the official music video, which features a psychedelic, '70s-inspired kaleidoscope aesthetic:
Released as the third single from the star-studded Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 2 , "Stay With Me" is a mid-tempo, funk-inspired disco track that attempts to recreate the breezy "A-list party" energy of its predecessor, Vol. 1 . Critical Reception Watch the official music video, which features a
“Pharrell and Justin Timberlake sound great, but Halsey's hook just sounds clunky. I wish Halsey and Justin had some vocal back and forth.” Reddit · r/hiphopheads · 3 years ago Watch the official music video
Conversely, The Guardian described the track as "sticky and awkward," suggesting the guest vocalists' sections never quite slot together. Some listeners found Halsey’s "breathy" delivery and Timberlake’s high-pitched performance to be "corny" or "disjointed" compared to the smoother flow of previous hits like "Feels". Community Perspectives which features a psychedelic
Many critics highlight the production’s "sultry bass line" and "summery guitar," noting it is tailor-made for barbecues and beach days. The Line of Best Fit called it a standout, praising its "nu-disco goodness" and slick vocals.
While the song reached the top 10 on Billboard's Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart, reviews are distinctly split between those who see it as a summer essential and those who find it lacking cohesion.