Running away is a common theme in music, and songs about it have been popular for decades. Whether it’s about escaping from a bad situation, seeking adventure, or simply needing a change of scenery, the act of running away has been a source of inspiration for many musicians. The best songs about running away not only capture the feelings and emotions associated with this theme, but also tell a compelling story through their lyrics and melody. From classic rock to contemporary pop, the genre of music doesn’t matter – what does is the ability of the song to connect with listeners on a deep and personal level. In this article, we will be exploring the top 20 songs about running away, showcasing the best of what music has to offer on this theme. Whether you’re a fan of old-school ballads or modern-day anthems, this list has something for everyone. So buckle up and let’s take a musical journey through the best songs about running away.
1. “Before They Make Me Run” by The Rolling Stones
“Before They Make Me Run” is a song by The Rolling Stones that was released in 1978 as part of the album “Some Girls”. This song is an upbeat rock number that reflects the band’s signature sound and style. The lyrics talk about the singer’s desire to escape from the pressures of modern life before it’s too late. The song’s catchy melody, driving beat, and Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals make “Before They Make Me Run” a standout track on the album. It’s a song about not giving up, about fighting for one’s freedom and independence, and about living life on one’s own terms. With its energetic musical style and memorable lyrics, “Before They Make Me Run” remains a classic of rock ‘n’ roll to this day.
2. “Stand Up And Run” by Billy Talent
“Stand Up and Run” is a song by Canadian punk rock band Billy Talent, released in 2012. It’s a high-energy track that showcases the band’s signature punk rock sound, complete with heavy guitar riffs and fast-paced drumming. The lyrics talk about the importance of standing up for oneself, not backing down in the face of adversity, and taking control of one’s life. The song is a rallying cry for anyone who feels like they’re stuck in a rut or struggling to make their way in the world. With its powerful vocals and uplifting message, “Stand Up and Run” is a song that inspires listeners to take action and make a change. Whether you’re looking for a motivational anthem or just a great punk rock tune, this song is sure to deliver.
3. “Runaway” by Ed Sheeran
“Runaway” is a song by British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, released in 2011 as part of his debut album “+”. This song is a mellow, acoustic-driven ballad that showcases Sheeran’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. The song is about a couple who are on the run, trying to escape from their troubles and start a new life together. The lyrics are full of longing and hope, with Sheeran singing about the freedom and excitement of hitting the open road and starting over. “Runaway” is a song about taking a chance and following one’s heart, no matter where it may lead. With its catchy melody and emotional delivery, “Runaway” is a standout track on Sheeran’s debut album and a favorite among fans.
4. “Run Away With Me” by Carly Rae Jepsen
“Run Away With Me” is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Carly Rae Jepsen, released in 2015 as part of her album “E•MO•TION”. This song is a bright, upbeat pop track that showcases Jepsen’s signature sound and style. The lyrics talk about the excitement and joy of falling in love and being swept away by someone special. The song is an invitation to escape from the routine of everyday life and join Jepsen on a romantic adventure. With its catchy chorus, infectious beats, and Jepsen’s energetic vocals, “Run Away With Me” is a song that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a summer anthem or just a great pop tune, this song is sure to deliver.
5. “Run To You” by Bryan Adams
“Run To You” is a song by Canadian rock musician Bryan Adams, released in 1984 as part of his fourth studio album “Reckless”. This song is a power ballad that showcases Adams’ soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. The song is about a man who’s seeking refuge from the difficulties of life and finds comfort and safety in the arms of a loved one. The lyrics are full of longing and emotion, with Adams singing about the need to escape from the chaos of the world and find solace in the embrace of someone special. “Run To You” is a song about the power of love and the importance of having someone to turn to when life gets tough. With its soaring chorus and emotional delivery, “Run To You” is a classic of 1980s rock and a favorite among Bryan Adams fans.
6. “The Running Kind” by Merle Haggard
“The Running Kind” is a song by American country music legend Merle Haggard, released in 1979. This song is a classic country ballad that showcases Haggard’s distinctive voice and storytelling style. The lyrics talk about a man who’s always on the run, trying to escape his troubles and start a new life. The song is a reflection on the dangers of living a life of constant motion, as the protagonist realizes that running away from one’s problems only leads to more heartache and loneliness. With its poignant lyrics and haunting melody, “The Running Kind” is a song that speaks to the human experience of searching for meaning and purpose in life. Whether you’re a fan of country music or just appreciate great storytelling, this song is sure to touch your heart.
7. “Run” by George Strait
“Run” is a song by American country music icon George Strait, released in 1985. This song is a mid-tempo ballad that showcases Strait’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. The lyrics talk about a man who’s running from his past, trying to escape the memories and mistakes that haunt him. The song is a reflection on the power of regret and the importance of facing one’s fears and moving on. With its emotional delivery and memorable melody, “Run” is a song that speaks to the human experience of grappling with the past and trying to find peace in the present. Whether you’re a fan of George Strait or just appreciate great country music, this song is sure to touch your heart.
8. “Running Back” by Thin Lizzy
“Running Back” is a song by Irish rock band Thin Lizzy, released in 1973 as part of their album “Vagabonds of the Western World”. This song is a classic rock number that showcases the band’s signature sound and style, complete with driving guitar riffs and powerful drumming. The lyrics talk about a man who’s running back to his lover, trying to escape the loneliness and heartache that have plagued him. The song is a celebration of the power of love and the importance of having someone to turn to when life gets tough. With its energetic musical style and memorable lyrics, “Running Back” is a standout track on Thin Lizzy’s classic album and a favorite among fans of classic rock. Whether you’re a fan of Thin Lizzy or just appreciate great rock ‘n’ roll, this song is sure to deliver.
9. “I Am Disappeared” by Frank Turner
“I Am Disappeared” is a song by British punk singer-songwriter Frank Turner, released in 2011 as part of his album “England Keep My Bones”. This song is a heartfelt acoustic ballad that showcases Turner’s soulful voice and storytelling style. The lyrics talk about a man who’s disappeared from society, trying to escape the pressures and expectations of modern life. The song is a reflection on the human experience of searching for meaning and purpose in a world that can often feel overwhelming and hostile. With its emotional delivery and memorable melody, “I Am Disappeared” is a standout track on Frank Turner’s album and a favorite among fans of punk and acoustic music. Whether you’re a fan of Frank Turner or just appreciate great songwriting, this song is sure to touch your heart.
10. “Time to Run” by Lord Huron
“Time to Run” is a song by American indie folk band Lord Huron, released in 2012 as part of their debut album “Lonesome Dreams”. This song is a haunting and atmospheric track that showcases the band’s signature sound and style, complete with ethereal harmonies and atmospheric instrumentation. The lyrics talk about a man who’s running from his troubles, trying to escape the darkness that’s closing in. The song is a reflection on the human experience of grappling with fear and uncertainty, and the importance of finding the courage to face one’s fears and keep moving forward. With its evocative musical style and memorable lyrics, “Time to Run” is a standout track on Lord Huron’s debut album and a favorite among fans of indie folk and atmospheric music. Whether you’re a fan of Lord Huron or just appreciate great music, this song is sure to captivate you.
11. “Run for Your Life” by The Beatles
“Run for Your Life” is a song by The Beatles, released in 1965 as part of their album “Rubber Soul”. This song is a fast-paced rocker that showcases the band’s signature sound and style, complete with driving guitar riffs and powerful drumming. The lyrics talk about a man who’s warning his lover to run for her life, as he’s not the kind of man she should be involved with. The song has been interpreted in various ways, with some seeing it as a commentary on domestic violence and others as a playful, tongue-in-cheek warning to a lover. Regardless of its interpretation, “Run for Your Life” is a standout track on The Beatles’ album and a classic of 1960s rock ‘n’ roll. Whether you’re a fan of The Beatles or just appreciate great rock music, this song is sure to deliver.
12. “Runaway” by Del Shannon
“Runaway” is a song by American rock and roll singer Del Shannon, released in 1961. This song was one of the earliest examples of a “B-side” hit and became Del Shannon’s first and biggest hit. The song is an upbeat rocker that showcases Shannon’s distinctive voice and upbeat musical style. The lyrics talk about a man who’s running away from a broken heart, trying to escape the memories of a lost love. The song’s catchy melody, driving beat, and Shannon’s soulful vocals made it an instant hit and a classic of early rock ‘n’ roll. With its upbeat energy and memorable lyrics, “Runaway” remains a favorite among fans of classic rock and roll to this day. Whether you’re a fan of Del Shannon or just appreciate great early rock music, this song is sure to deliver.
13. “Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree
“Steal Away” is a song by American singer-songwriter Robbie Dupree, released in 1980. This song is a soft rock ballad that showcases Dupree’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. The lyrics talk about a man who’s trying to steal away with his lover, to escape the pressures and expectations of the world and start a new life together. The song’s mellow melody, emotional delivery, and memorable chorus made it a hit and a favorite among fans of soft rock. With its soothing musical style and touching lyrics, “Steal Away” remains a classic of 1980s pop and a favorite among fans of the genre. Whether you’re a fan of Robbie Dupree or just appreciate great soft rock, this song is sure to touch your heart.
14. “Keep On Runnin” by Journey
“Keep On Runnin'” is a song by American rock band Journey, released in 1981 as part of their album “Escape”. This song is an upbeat rocker that showcases the band’s signature sound and style, complete with driving guitar riffs, powerful drumming, and Steve Perry’s soaring vocals. The lyrics talk about the importance of keeping on running, no matter what obstacles may come your way. The song is a celebration of the human spirit and the determination to keep pushing forward, no matter what life may bring. With its catchy chorus, energetic musical style, and memorable lyrics, “Keep On Runnin'” is a standout track on Journey’s album and a favorite among fans of classic rock. Whether you’re a fan of Journey or just appreciate great rock music, this song is sure to deliver.
15. “Running With The Wolves” by Cloud Cult
“Running With The Wolves” is a song by American indie rock band Cloud Cult, released in 2009 as part of their album “Feel Good Ghosts (Tea-Partying Through Tornadoes)”. This song is an atmospheric and haunting track that showcases the band’s signature sound and style, complete with ethereal harmonies and atmospheric instrumentation. The lyrics talk about running with the wolves, as a metaphor for embracing one’s primal instincts and breaking free from the constraints of society. The song is a celebration of the human spirit and the desire to live life on one’s own terms. With its evocative musical style and memorable lyrics, “Running With The Wolves” is a standout track on Cloud Cult’s album and a favorite among fans of indie rock and atmospheric music. Whether you’re a fan of Cloud Cult or just appreciate great music, this song is sure to captivate you.
16. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
“Born to Run” is a song by American rock icon Bruce Springsteen, released in 1975 as part of his album of the same name. This song is a classic rock anthem that showcases Springsteen’s signature sound and style, complete with driving guitar riffs and powerful drumming. The lyrics talk about a man and a woman who are trying to escape the constraints of their small town, seeking freedom and adventure on the open road. The song is a celebration of the human spirit and the desire to break free from the routine of everyday life and chase one’s dreams. With its upbeat energy and memorable lyrics, “Born to Run” is a classic of 1970s rock ‘n’ roll and a favorite among fans of Bruce Springsteen. Whether you’re a fan of The Boss or just appreciate great rock music, this song is sure to deliver.
17. “Escape” by Metallica
“Escape” is a song by American heavy metal legends Metallica, released in 1981 as part of their album “Ride the Lightning”. This song is a fast-paced and heavy track that showcases the band’s signature sound and style, complete with driving guitar riffs, thundering drumming, and James Hetfield’s powerful vocals. The lyrics talk about a man who’s trying to escape from a world that’s closing in on him, seeking refuge from the chaos and madness of modern life. The song is a reflection on the human experience of grappling with fear and uncertainty, and the importance of finding the courage to break free from the constraints of society. With its heavy musical style and powerful lyrics, “Escape” is a standout track on Metallica’s album and a classic of heavy metal. Whether you’re a fan of Metallica or just appreciate great heavy metal, this song is sure to deliver.
18. “She’s Leaving Home” by The Beatles
“She’s Leaving Home” is a song by The Beatles, released in 1967 as part of their album “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”. This song is a tender and emotional ballad that showcases the band’s signature sound and style, complete with lush orchestration and touching harmonies. The lyrics talk about a young woman who’s leaving home to start a new life, seeking freedom and adventure beyond the confines of her parents’ house. The song is a reflection on the human experience of growing up and seeking independence, and the emotions that come with leaving the comfort and security of home. With its beautiful musical style and touching lyrics, “She’s Leaving Home” is a standout track on The Beatles’ classic album and a favorite among fans of the band. Whether you’re a fan of The Beatles or just appreciate great music, this song is sure to touch your heart.
19. “I Am Born To Run” by American Authors
“I Am Born To Run” is a song by American rock band American Authors, released in 2014 as part of their album “Oh, What a Life”. This song is an upbeat and energetic track that showcases the band’s signature sound and style, complete with driving guitar riffs, powerful drumming, and Zac Barnett’s soulful vocals. The lyrics talk about a man who’s born to run, to escape the routine of everyday life and chase his dreams. The song is a celebration of the human spirit and the importance of following one’s passions and pursuing one’s dreams, no matter what obstacles may come your way. With its catchy chorus, upbeat energy, and memorable lyrics, “I Am Born To Run” is a standout track on American Authors’ album and a favorite among fans of the band. Whether you’re a fan of American Authors or just appreciate great rock music, this song is sure to deliver.
20. “I Ran (So Far Away)” by A Flock of Seagulls
“I Ran (So Far Away)” is a song by English new wave band A Flock of Seagulls, released in 1982 as part of their album “A Flock of Seagulls”. This song is a synth-pop classic that showcases the band’s signature sound and style, complete with pulsing electronic beats and atmospheric synths. The lyrics talk about a man who’s running away from his troubles, trying to escape the memories of a lost love. The song’s catchy melody, driving beat, and memorable chorus made it a hit and a favorite among fans of new wave and synth-pop. With its energetic musical style and memorable lyrics, “I Ran (So Far Away)” remains a classic of 1980s pop and a favorite among fans of the genre. Whether you’re a fan of A Flock of Seagulls or just appreciate great synth-pop, this song is sure to deliver.
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