About the song
In the pantheon of classic songs, few have captured the essence of love, longing, and the human condition as poignantly as “Twenty Four Hours from Tulsa”. Written by the legendary duo of Burt Bacharach and Hal David, this 1963 hit for Gene Pitney has become an enduring anthem of heartache and regret. With its innovative composition, memorable melody, and universal themes, “Twenty Four Hours from Tulsa” continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
The song’s narrative is deceptively simple: a traveling man, just 24 hours from reaching home, detours into a motel romance that ultimately derails his plans. Yet, beneath this straightforward tale lies a complex web of emotions, expertly woven by Bacharach and David’s masterful lyrics. The song’s protagonist is torn between his loyalty to his current partner and the thrill of a new love, leaving him – and the listener – questioning the very fabric of relationships.
Musically, “Twenty Four Hours from Tulsa” is a tour de force, showcasing Bacharach’s signature constructivist style. The song’s tonal ambiguity, achieved through a series of clever chord progressions, perfectly captures the emotional turmoil of the protagonist. The verse, in G major, gives way to a chorus that interrupts the expected cadence, establishing a new tonic and creating a sense of tension that propels the song forward.
The song’s impact was immediate, with Pitney’s version reaching #5 in the UK and #17 in the US. Its success helped establish Pitney as an international star, while also paving the way for numerous cover versions by artists such as Jay and the Americans, Dusty Springfield, and Ian & Sylvia.
Over the years, “Twenty Four Hours from Tulsa” has become a staple of popular culture, referenced in films, television shows, and even advertising campaigns. Its influence can be heard in songs like Billy Joe Royal’s “Down in the Boondocks”, which borrowed part of the arrangement. The song’s themes of love, regret, and the human condition continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic that will endure for generations to come.
In short, “Twenty Four Hours from Tulsa” is a masterpiece of songwriting, a poignant exploration of the human heart that continues to captivate audiences with its beauty, complexity, and emotional depth. Whether you’re a fan of classic pop, a student of music theory, or simply someone who appreciates great storytelling, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
Dearest darling I had to write to say that I won’t be home anymore
cause something happened to me while I was driving home
And I’m not the same anymore
Oh I was only 24 hours from Tulsa
Ah only one day away from your arms
I saw a welcoming light and stopped to rest for the night
And that is when I saw her
As I pulled in outside of a small motel
She was there and so I walked up to her
Asked where I could get something to eat and she showed me where
Oh I was only 24 hours from Tulsa
Ah only one day away from your arms
She took me to a cafe I asked her if she would stay
She said okay
Oh I was only 24 hours from Tulsa
Ah only one day away from your arms
Oh the jukebox started to play
And night time turned into day as we were dancing closely
All of a sudden I lost control as I held her charms
And I caressed her, kissed her
Told her I’d die before I let her out of my arms
Oh I was only 24 hours from Tulsa
Ah only one day away from your arms
I hate to do this to you
But I love somebody new
What can I do
And I can never never never go home again
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