About the song
“I Drove All Night” is a song with a fascinating backstory, weaving a path through the careers of multiple legendary artists. Written by American songwriting duo Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, the song was initially intended for the iconic voice of Roy Orbison. Orbison recorded the track in 1987, shortly before his passing. However, it wouldn’t be released until 1992, leaving a mark as a posthumous masterpiece.
Cyndi Lauper, captivated by the song’s energy and the empowering image of a woman taking control, decided to record her own version. Released in 1989 as part of her album “A Night to Remember,” Lauper’s version became a smash hit. It soared on both sides of the Atlantic, reaching the top 10 in the US and the UK. Notably, it also marked Lauper’s final top 40 hit on the American pop charts, solidifying her place as a pop icon. Lauper continues to perform the song live, a testament to its enduring appeal.
The story doesn’t end there. Celine Dion, the powerhouse Canadian vocalist, couldn’t resist the song’s magic. In 2003, she released her rendition, which topped the Canadian Singles Chart and climbed the US Adult Contemporary chart. The diversity of artists who embraced “I Drove All Night” speaks volumes about its universal appeal.
Roy Orbison’s version, though delayed in its release, eventually found its way to the public. Producer Jeff Lynne, known for his work with Electric Light Orchestra, used Orbison’s 1987 recordings as the basis for the posthumous album “King of Hearts.” Released in 1992, the album brought Orbison back to the charts, even earning a Grammy Award. Interestingly, “I Drove All Night” wasn’t just featured on “King of Hearts.” It had a prior appearance on the 1991 compilation album “Nintendo: White Knuckle Scorin’,” proving its unexpected connection to the video game world.
Orbison’s official single release of “I Drove All Night” in 1992 mirrored Lauper’s success, reaching number 7 on the UK Singles Chart. A music video was even created, featuring Jason Priestley and Jennifer Connelly alongside archive footage of Orbison himself. The video offered a subtle nod to the song’s early “Nintendo” connection with a background reference to the Mario series. Finally, the song found its place in the film “Paperback Hero,” starring Hugh Jackman, further solidifying its presence in popular culture.
“I Drove All Night” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries. It’s a journey that began with the vision of songwriters, traveled through the voices of iconic artists, and continues to resonate with listeners today.
Video
Lyrics
I had to escape, the city was sticky and cruel
Maybe I should have called you first
But I was dying to get to you
I was dreaming while I drove
The long straight road ahead, uh-huh, yeah
Could taste your sweet kisses, your arms open wide
This fever for you was just burning me up inside
I drove all night to get to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night, crept in your room
Woke you from your sleep to make love to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night
What in this world keeps us from falling apart?
No matter where I go
I hear the beating of our one heart
I think about you when the night is cold and dark, uh-huh, yeah
No one can move me the way that you do
Nothing erases this feeling between me and you, oh
I drove all night to get to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night, crept in your room
Woke you from your sleep to make love to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night
Could taste your sweet kisses, your arms open wide
This fever for you is just burning me up inside
I drove all night to get to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night, crept in your room
Is that all right?
I drove all night
I drove all night to get to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night