About the song
Noel & Ben Haggard’s “The Runnin Kind” is a classic country duet that showcases the talents of two of the genre’s most iconic figures. This timeless track, with its poignant lyrics and soulful melodies, has become a staple in the country music canon, resonating with audiences for generations.
Released in 1983, “The Runnin Kind” is a tale of love, loss, and the enduring spirit of the outlaw. The song’s narrative follows a man who finds himself on the run from the law, haunted by the memory of a love he cannot forget. Noel Gallagher’s emotive vocals capture the character’s inner turmoil, while Ben Haggard’s seasoned baritone provides a sense of gravitas and authenticity.
The song’s opening verse sets the scene, painting a picture of a life on the road, filled with loneliness and regret. Haggard’s haunting melody and Gallagher’s heartfelt delivery convey the character’s longing for a simpler time. The chorus, with its powerful refrain of “I’m a lonesome fugitive,” encapsulates the character’s isolation and despair.
One of the most striking aspects of “The Runnin Kind” is the chemistry between Gallagher and Haggard. Their voices complement each other perfectly, creating a harmonious blend that is both moving and evocative. The song’s arrangement is also noteworthy, with its sparse instrumentation and its ability to create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.
Beyond its commercial success, “The Runnin Kind” has become a cultural touchstone. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in films and television shows, cementing its place in popular culture. The song’s enduring appeal can be attributed to its universal themes of love, loss, and the human condition.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or discovering the genre for the first time, “The Runnin Kind” is a must-listen. Its poignant lyrics, soulful melodies, and timeless message make it a classic that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
I was born the running kind
With leaving always on my mind
Home was never home to me at anytime
Every front door found me hopin’
I would find the back door open
There just had to be an exit
For the running kindWithin me there’s a prison
Surrounding me alone
As real as any dungeon with walls of stone
I know running’s not the answer
But running’s been my nature
And a part of me
That keeps me moving onI was born the running kind
With leaving always on my mind
Home was never home to me at anytime
Every front door found me hopin’
I would find the back door open
There just had to be an exit
For the running kind