About the song
“Running Scared” stands as a remarkable testament to the exceptional talent of Roy Orbison and his distinctive contribution to the rock and roll genre. Released in March 1961, this operatic rock ballad was crafted by Orbison in collaboration with Joe Melson and became a defining track of his career. The song’s journey began under the meticulous supervision of audio engineer Bill Porter, leading to its debut as a 45 rpm single on Monument Records. The impact of “Running Scared” was profound, as it swiftly ascended to the number one position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, capturing the hearts of listeners across the United States and beyond. Its success was further underscored by its achievement of reaching No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart and selling over one million copies in the US alone.
What makes “Running Scared” particularly noteworthy is its unique structure. Unlike many contemporary songs, it was composed without a traditional chorus. Instead, the song’s power lies in its gradual build-up through lyrics, arrangement, and Orbison’s unparalleled vocal performance. Orbison’s voice, renowned for its clarity and range, shines throughout, culminating in a powerful climax that highlights his ability to sing in full, natural voice without falsetto. This final high note, noted as a G above High C, was a deliberate choice by Fred Foster, the producer, to showcase Orbison’s extraordinary vocal prowess.
The song’s influence extended beyond its initial release. While “Running Scared” made waves globally, the B-side of the single, “Love Hurts,” also gained considerable attention, particularly in Australia, where it charted as a double A-side hit. The version of “Love Hurts” by Orbison predates the more widely recognized rendition by rock band Nazareth, who popularized the song in 1975.
The legacy of “Running Scared” has endured through various covers and references in popular culture. Notable artists such as Jack Scott, Glen Campbell, and Nick Cave have all offered their interpretations of the song, each adding their unique flavor while paying homage to Orbison’s original. Additionally, the track has found a place in media, including its use in the trailer for the 2017 horror film “Jigsaw.” The song’s enduring appeal and its impact on subsequent artists underscore its significance in the landscape of rock and roll, solidifying Roy Orbison’s place as a musical icon.
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Lyrics
Just runnin’ scared each place we go
So afraid that he might show
Yeah, runnin’ scared, what would I do
If he came back and wanted you?
Just runnin’ scared, feelin’ low
Runnin’ scared, you love him so
Just runnin’ scared, afraid to lose
If he came back, which one would you choose?
Then all at once he was standing there
So sure of himself, his head in the air
My heart was breaking, which one would it be?
You turned around and walked away with me