About the song
Gene Pitney’s timeless classic, “24 Hours from Tulsa,” encapsulates the essence of heartache and longing in its poignant lyrics and soulful melody. Released in 1963, this iconic ballad remains a staple in the realm of pop music, showcasing Pitney’s exceptional vocal prowess and storytelling ability.
As the haunting orchestral arrangement sets the tone, listeners are drawn into a narrative of love, regret, and the cruel passage of time. The song unfolds with a sense of urgency, as Pitney’s emotive vocals convey the protagonist’s inner turmoil and desperation.
At the core of “24 Hours from Tulsa” lies a tale of a man torn between duty and desire. The protagonist finds himself on the brink of succumbing to temptation, tempted by the allure of a fleeting romance just “24 hours from Tulsa.” Yet, despite his longing to stay, he ultimately chooses to honor his commitments, setting him on a path of regret and unfulfilled dreams.
Pitney’s delivery is nothing short of captivating, infusing each lyric with raw emotion and sincerity. His voice carries the weight of the protagonist’s dilemma, evoking empathy from listeners who can relate to the universal themes of love and sacrifice.
The song’s enduring appeal lies not only in its lyrical depth but also in its melodic richness. Pitney’s masterful interpretation is complemented by lush instrumentation, including sweeping strings and melancholic guitar riffs, creating a sonic landscape that resonates long after the final note fades.
“24 Hours from Tulsa” stands as a testament to Gene Pitney’s status as a consummate storyteller and musical virtuoso. His ability to evoke such profound emotions through song is a testament to his enduring legacy in the annals of music history.
In conclusion, “24 Hours from Tulsa” remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences with its poignant storytelling and unforgettable melody. Gene Pitney’s contribution to the world of music is immortalized in this haunting ballad, reminding us of the power of love, regret, and the passage of time.
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Lyrics
Dearest darling I had to write to say that I won’t be home anymorecause something happened to me while I was driving home And I’m not the same anymore
Oh I was only 24 hours from TulsaAh only one day away from your arms
I saw a welcoming light and stopped to rest for the nightAnd that is when I saw herAs I pulled in outside of a small motelShe was there and so I walked up to herAsked where I could get something to eat and she showed me where
Oh I was only 24 hours from TulsaAh only one day away from your arms
She took me to a cafe I asked her if she would stayShe said okay
Oh I was only 24 hours from TulsaAh only one day away from your arms
Oh the jukebox started to play And night time turned into day as we were dancing closelyAll of a sudden I lost control as I held her charmsAnd 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 TulsaAh only one day away from your arms
I hate to do this to youBut I love somebody newWhat can I do And I can never never never go home again
