About the song
“Leaving On A Jet Plane” is an iconic folk-pop song performed as a duet by John Denver and Cass Elliot, also known as Mama Cass. Written by John Denver himself, it first appeared on his 1969 album “Rhymes & Reasons”. This timeless piece captures the emotional farewell of a lover about to depart on a journey, blending Denver’s heartfelt vocals with Elliot’s rich harmonies.
John Denver, born Henry John Deutschendorf Jr., was a celebrated American singer-songwriter known for his folk and country music influences. He gained prominence in the 1970s with hits like “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and “Annie’s Song”. His collaboration with Cass Elliot, a prominent member of the 1960s folk rock band The Mamas and the Papas, added a unique dimension to “Leaving On A Jet Plane”.
The song achieved significant chart success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1969. Its poignant lyrics and melodic simplicity resonated deeply with listeners, making it a favorite for generations. The heartfelt expression of longing and farewell struck a chord with audiences during a time of social change and personal introspection.
“Leaving On A Jet Plane” remains a classic example of Denver’s ability to craft emotive narratives through music. Its enduring popularity has been underscored by numerous covers and appearances in popular culture, solidifying its place as a timeless classic in the folk-pop genre.
For fans of folk music or those drawn to introspective storytelling through song, “Leaving On A Jet Plane” continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, reminding us of the universal experience of parting and the hope of reunion.
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Lyrics
[Verse 1]
All my bags are packed, I’m ready to go
I’m standing here outside your door
I hate to wake you up to say goodbye
But the dawn is breaking, it’s early morn
The taxi’s waiting, he’s blowin’ his horn
Already I’m so lonesome I could die[Chorus]
So kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leaving on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go[Verse 2]
There’s so many times I’ve let you down
So many times I’ve played around
I tell you now, they don’t mean a thing
Every place I go, I’ll think of you
Every song I sing, I’ll sing for you
When I come back, I’ll bring your wedding ring[Chorus]
So kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leaving on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go[Verse 3]
Now the time has come to leave you
One more time, let me kiss you
Then close your eyes and I’ll be on my way
Dream about the days to come
When I won’t have to leave alone
About the times I won’t have to say[Chorus]
Kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leaving on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go[Outro]
I’m leaving on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go