In 2010, Sugarland, the acclaimed country duo, unleashed “Stuck Like Glue” as the lead single from their album The Incredible Machine. This infectious track, penned by Kristian Bush and Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland alongside Shy Carter and Kevin Griffin, soared to become a No. 2 country hit and achieved double platinum certification. Before Florida Georgia Line’s “Cruise” took the crown, “Stuck Like Glue” held the title of the best-selling song by a country duo. Here, Bush and Nettles delve into the story of how this unforgettable “Stuck Like Glue Song” came to life.
The Unexpected Collaboration that Sparked “Stuck Like Glue”
Jennifer Nettles revealed the initial spark for “Stuck Like Glue” originated from an external songwriting pitch. “We always like to hear what other people think a good Sugarland song will sound like,” she explained. Songwriters Kevin Griffin and Shy Carter had penned a song for the duo, and upon hearing it, Sugarland recognized its potential. “When we did, we thought it was great; it sounds like us,” Nettles recalled. This initial song served as a foundation, evolving into the “stuck like glue song” fans know and love. Nettles clarified the collaborative songwriting process, stating, “[The final version of] ‘Stuck Like Glue’ [developed from] that song they wrote for us. Kris and I wrote [most of] it, and Kevin and Shy did the chorus.” The result was a track that Nettles described as “lighthearted and sassy,” perfectly encapsulating Sugarland’s vibrant musical identity.
“Stuck Like Glue” Song: More Than Just a Catchy Tune
Kristian Bush emphasized the intended feeling behind the “stuck like glue song”: pure enjoyment. “The song is about having fun; it’s supposed to make you feel good,” Bush stated. He contrasted songs with world-altering ambitions to those designed for immediate mood elevation. “Sometimes you try to write a song that you want to change the world, and sometimes you write a song that you want to just change your day!” Bush elaborated. He positioned “Stuck Like Glue” firmly in the latter category, aiming to be a day-brightener. However, Bush also acknowledged the song’s capacity to provoke thought, adding, “…the fact that it has provoked conversation is okay! Art is supposed to be provocative. If it isn’t, it belongs in an elevator.” This hinted at the song’s bolder sonic elements that stretched beyond typical country conventions.
Diverse Musical Influences Shaping the “Stuck Like Glue” Sound
Nettles highlighted the diverse musical landscape that informs Sugarland’s sound, and by extension, the “stuck like glue song”. “Every song has different influences. I love all kinds of music,” she asserted. Providing a glimpse into her eclectic taste, Nettles shared, “On my [MP3 player], it’s a smorgasbord of rap, R&B, classic rock, indie, gospel, bluegrass — I love it all.” She emphasized that this broad spectrum of genres isn’t just for personal listening; it actively shapes their creative output. “Each part touches a different place in my heart. We listen to it all, and we use it all,” Nettles concluded, underscoring the band’s commitment to sonic exploration.
A Bold Step for Country: The Genre-Defying Nature of “Stuck Like Glue”
“Stuck Like Glue” marked a departure from conventional country sounds, a point Nettles readily acknowledged. She described the song as “aggressive and bold,” noting, “It’s music people [hadn’t] associated with Sugarland before.” This willingness to push boundaries was a conscious choice, reflecting Sugarland’s evolving artistic vision. Nettles challenged genre limitations, stating, “But you don’t have to stay in one place or wear certain clothing or lead a certain lifestyle to be country.” This bold declaration cemented “Stuck Like Glue”‘s place not just as a hit song, but as a statement about the expanding horizons of country music itself. The “stuck like glue song” became synonymous with Sugarland’s innovative spirit and their refusal to be confined by genre expectations.
