Stages (song)

"Stages" is a song by American rock band ZZ Top. It was released as the second single from their ninth studio album Afterburner (1985). It peaked at number 21 on the United States Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart for two weeks.

Reception

Cash Box called it "melodic, driving, and danceable." Billboard called it a "rollicking" and "high-powered."

AllMusic called the song a "terrific post-new wave rocker" and that it is the poppiest thing they ever cut.

Formats and track listings

• 7-inch single (United States)

1. "Stages" – 3:32
2. "Can't Stop Rockin'" – 3:01

• 12-inch single (United States)

1. "Stages" (extended version) – 5:05
2. "Stages" – 3:32
3. "Hi Fi Mama" – 2:22

Charts

Chart (1986)	Peak position
Australia (Kent Music Report)	63
Canada (RPM)	42
Ireland (IRMA)	23
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US Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks (Billboard)	1

Personnel

Credits for "Stages" adapted from Afterburner album liner notes.

• Frank Beard – drums, backing vocals
• Billy Gibbons – guitar, lead vocals
• Bill Ham – production
• Dusty Hill – bass, backing vocals