Del Shannon was a famous singer known for his 1961 hit “Runaway,” which became a chart-topper in the U.S. and the U.K.
He stood out for his falsetto voice and emotional lyrics. Shannon had a string of successful songs in the ’60s, including Hats Off to Larry and Keep Searchin’.”His music inspired many rock and pop artists.
About the Song
Runaway is a sad yet catchy song about a man who loses the girl he loves. He wonders why she left and wishes she would come back. Its unique keyboard sound made it really popular and helped it become one of the biggest hits of the 1960s.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | February 18, 1961 |
| Album | Handy Man: The Best Of Del Shannon (2022) |
| Writers | Del Shannon & Max Crook |
| Producer | Harry Balk |
Runaway Lyrics by Del Shannon
Verse 1
As I walk along I wonder
A-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
A-while our hearts were young
Chorus
I’m a-walkin’ in the rain
Tears are fallin’ and I feel the pain
A-wishin’ you were here by me
To end this misery and I wonder
I wah-wah-wah-wah-wonder, why
Why, why, why, why, why she ran away
And I wonder a-where she will stay-ay
My little runaway, a-run, run, run, run, runaway
Bridge
Chorus
I’m a-walkin’ in the rain
Tears are fallin’ and I feel the pain
A-wishin’ you were here by me
To end this misery and I wonder
I wah-wah-wah-wah-wonder, why
Why, why, why, why, why she ran away
And I wonder a-where she will stay-ay
My little runaway, a-run, run, run, run, runaway
Outro
A-run, run, run, run, runaway
A-run, run, run, run, runaway
Similar Songs Like Runaway
Here are some songs worth listening to if you enjoy Runaway, offering similar themes and storytelling charm.
- Hats Off to Larry: A song where the singer warns a girl who left him that she’ll get hurt just like he did.
- Little Town Flirt: About a girl who plays with boys’ hearts, and the singer warns others to stay away before she breaks theirs too.
- Keep Searchin’ (We’ll Follow the Sun) : It tells the story of a couple running away to find peace, staying strong through tough times, and not giving up.
- Stranger in Town: Talks about a new guy in town who might steal his girl, and the singer feels worried and afraid.
Similar Artists Like Del Shannon
Here are some iconic artists whose timeless styles and memorable hits align with the musical charm of Del Shannon.
-
Roy Orbison
Genre: Rock and Roll, Pop, Country
Top Album: Mystery Girl (1989) -
Gene Pitney
Genre: Pop, Rock, Blue-Eyed Soul
Top Album: The Many Sides of Gene Pitney (1962) -
Ricky Nelson
Genre: Rock and Roll, Rockabilly, Pop
Top Album: Ricky Sings Again (1959) -
Bobby Vee
Genre: Pop, Rock, Teen Pop
Top Album: Take Good Care of My Baby (1962) -
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
Genre: Pop, Doo-Wop, Rock
Top Album: Sherry & 11 Others (1962)
Frequently Asked Questions
How Did Del Shannon Come Up With the Idea for Runaway?
Del Shannon was inspired by a simple chord change played by his bandmate. He wrote the lyrics after hearing the chords and added the Musitron solo to complete the song.
What is the Mood of Runaway Throughout the Song?
The mood shifts from sadness and confusion to a slight sense of hope, but it remains largely emotional and thoughtful, aligning with the story in the lyrics.
What Emotions are Expressed in the Lyrics of Runaway?
The lyrics convey a deep sense of sadness, pain, confusion, and longing for someone who has departed, leaving a lasting emotional impact.
