Lisa Loeb Exclusive Interview: From “Stay” to Children’s Books and Eyewear

Interview with Lisa Loeb: From “Stay” to Children’s Books and Eyewear

Introduction
About Lisa Loeb
Interview
Footnotes

Introduction

In November 2024, singer-songwriter Lisa Loeb participated in a unique mail correspondence interview as part of the through-the-mail interview series by Tales From The Collection. Known for connecting fans with their favorite artists in a more personal format, this series explores the stories, challenges, and creative processes of iconic figures in pop culture. In this interview, Lisa shares details of her journey—from the breakthrough hit “Stay (I Missed You)” to her evolving work as an artist, author, and entrepreneur.

About Lisa Loeb

Lisa Loeb at event for The 60th Annual Grammy Awards — Michael Loccisano | © 2018 Getty Images | Image courtesy gettyimages.com

Lisa Loeb is an American singer-songwriter, actress, author, and entrepreneur celebrated for her distinctive voice and meaningful lyrics. Her 1994 hit single “Stay (I Missed You)” from the film “Reality Bites” catapulted her to fame, making her the first artist to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 without a record deal. Over the years, Lisa’s discography has grown to include critically acclaimed albums like “Tails” and “Firecracker”, merging folk, rock, and pop with introspective lyrics that resonate deeply with audiences.

Born in Bethesda, Maryland, and raised in Dallas, Texas, Lisa’s early interest in music and literature shaped her artistic sensibilities. She graduated from Brown University with a degree in comparative literature, which has informed her storytelling and songwriting. Beyond music, Lisa has appeared in films such as “House on Haunted Hill” and “Legally Blonde”, while also lending her voice to numerous projects.

A passionate entrepreneur, Lisa launched the Lisa Loeb Eyewear Collection, featuring her signature cat-eye frames, and is active in philanthropy. Her nonprofit, the Camp Lisa Foundation, enables underserved children to experience summer camp, a cause close to her heart. Throughout her career, Lisa Loeb has remained a beloved figure, continuously evolving her craft while connecting with fans worldwide.

Interview with Lisa Loeb

1. Your song “Stay (I Missed You)” from the “Reality Bites” soundtrack was a massive hit and catapulted you to fame. Can you share the story behind writing that song and how it changed your career?

I wrote the song to give to Daryl Hall for a solo record, inspired by Hall & Oates early hits. That didn’t work out, so I played the song myself. My friend & fan, Ethan Hawke, passed the song along to Ben Stiller who put it in the movie. It gave me a huge connection to people all over the world!! “Still does.”

2. Beyond “Stay,” you have an extensive discography. Which of your albums or songs are you most proud of, and why do they hold special significance for you?

I love the albums “cake & pie” & “A Simple Trick to Happiness.” Those have powerful songs, melodies, & lyrics that I love singing live.

3. You’ve managed to maintain a successful music career while also branching out into acting, writing, and voice work. How do you balance these different creative pursuits, and do you have a preference for one over the others?

Lots of support from my family, my longtime manager, & iCal!!

4. You’ve written several children’s books and albums. What inspired you to create content for children, and how does the creative process differ from writing music for adults?

I am nostalgic for my childhood & the TV + music I enjoyed from the 1970s & wanted to capture that feeling. I apply the storytelling & exploring different genres & instrumentation to my grownup music.

5. As an independent artist, what have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the music industry, and how have you overcome them?

I work with my team, always have new ideas, and although it’s a bummer that actual physical record & CD sales are not really a big thing, I’m lucky to find ways to make a good living touring + doing other things I enjoy.

6. You’ve been involved in various charitable causes and initiatives. Can you discuss some of the organizations you support and why these causes are important to you?

I love sending kids to camp. It was a big deal for me growing up, as a musician + a human finding myself, away from school.

7. Your eyewear line has become quite popular. How did you venture into fashion, and what has been the most rewarding aspect of creating your own brand?

I wanted to make a line of glasses to enhance women’s experience of wearing glasses—comfort + style! I love seeing people feeling + looking cute + confident.

8. Over the years, you’ve collaborated with many artists across different genres. Are there any collaborations that stand out as particularly memorable or impactful on your career?

I loved touring with Lyle Lovett and also singing with Craig Robinson.

9. Looking forward, what projects or goals are you most excited about, and are there any new areas you hope to explore in your creative journey?

I’m excited about my current album with “The Hollow Trees” and also the unreleased songs I’m looking forward to putting out.

Connect with Lisa Loeb

Official Website

Apple Music

Cameo

Facebook

Twitter / X

Instagram

YouTube

Footnotes

1. “Stay (I Missed You)” became the first number-one single in the U.S. by an artist without a recording contract, establishing Loeb as a unique voice in the 1990s music scene.

2. Loeb’s eyewear line is known for its retro-inspired, cat-eye frames and has been embraced by fans who enjoy her unique style.