Released in 1983, “Come Back And Stay” was the second single from Paul Young’s debut album, No Parlez, and played a key role in establishing him as one of Britain’s leading pop and soul singers. Originally recorded by American artist Jack Lee, Young’s version transformed the song into a polished blue-eyed soul classic, highlighting his expressive vocals and effortless ability to reinterpret material written by others.

Produced by Laurie Latham, the recording features a sophisticated arrangement of shimmering keyboards, tasteful guitar work, subtle brass and a tight rhythm section. The lyrics tell the story of someone pleading for a former lover to return, expressing regret, longing and the hope of a second chance. Paul Young delivers the song with warmth and sincerity, bringing emotional depth to the heartfelt words without ever becoming overly dramatic. His soulful vocal performance became one of the defining characteristics of his early career.

The success of “Come Back And Stay” confirmed that Paul Young was far more than a promising newcomer, helping No Parlez become one of the standout British debut albums of the decade. It was the beginning of an impressive run of hit singles that showcased his distinctive blend of pop and soul. Today, the song remains one of Young’s best-loved recordings, celebrated for its memorable melody, polished production and timeless appeal. It continues to be recognised as a classic example of sophisticated British pop from the early 1980s and an enduring highlight of Paul Young’s catalogue.

The song peaked at No. 04 on the UK charts on 24th September 1983.