About the song
“Runaway” by Del Shannon is a timeless classic that has left an indelible mark on the music industry since its release in 1961. Penned by Del Shannon himself along with keyboardist Max Crook, the song quickly ascended the charts, becoming one of Shannon’s most iconic hits.
Featured on his debut album of the same name, “Runaway” showcased Shannon’s distinctive falsetto vocals and Crook’s innovative use of the Musitron, an early form of electronic keyboard. The song’s haunting melody, combined with its memorable lyrics and catchy hooks, resonated with audiences across generations, propelling it to the top of the charts in multiple countries.
“Runaway” soared to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, solidifying Del Shannon’s status as a prominent figure in the early rock and roll scene. Its success was further cemented by its international appeal, reaching high positions on charts in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
Del Shannon’s masterful blend of rock, pop, and R&B elements in “Runaway” paved the way for future generations of musicians and earned him widespread acclaim as a pioneer of the genre. His distinct vocal style and innovative use of instrumentation set him apart from his contemporaries, establishing him as a trailblazer in the music industry.
Despite being released over six decades ago, “Runaway” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal and remains a staple on oldies radio stations worldwide. Its influence can be heard in countless cover versions and tributes, attesting to its enduring legacy in popular culture.
In conclusion, Del Shannon’s “Runaway” stands as a testament to the power of great songwriting and innovative musical craftsmanship. Its chart-topping success and lasting impact serve as a testament to Shannon’s talent and creativity, solidifying his place in music history as one of the greats.
Video
Lyrics
As I walk along, I wonder
What went wrong with our love
A love that was so strong
And as I still walk on, I think of
The things we’ve done together
While our hearts were young
I’ma walkin’ in the rain
Tears are fallin’ and I feel the pain
Wishin’ you were here by me
To end this misery
I wonder
I wo-wo-wo wonder
Why… why-why-why-why-why
She ran away
And I wonder where she will stay
My little runaway
I run-run-run-run runaway
I’ma walkin’ in the rain
Tears are fallin’ and I feel the pain
Wishin’ you were here by me
To end this misery
I wonder
I wo-wo-wo wonder
Why… why-why-why-why-why
She ran away
And I wonder where she will stay
My little runaway
I run-run-run-run runaway
I run-run-run-run runaway
I run-run-run-run runaway