About the Song
Roy Orbison, the man with the velvet voice. Remember him? His powerful vocals and dramatic ballads could turn a simple love song into an operatic masterpiece. Well, settle in and get ready for another Orbison gem – “Running Scared”.
Released in 1961, this song was a chart-topper, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It wasn’t just a hit, though. “Running Scared” became a signature tune for Orbison, showcasing both his incredible vocal range and his talent for storytelling within a song.
Now, this isn’t your typical happy-go-lucky love song. Orbison takes us on a journey of insecurity and paranoia. The narrator is haunted by the ghost of a past relationship, constantly worried that his new love might choose the other guy if he ever reappeared. The lyrics paint a picture of a man constantly on edge, “Just running scared each place we go”.
But fear not, dear reader! There’s a glimmer of hope. Even with his anxieties, the narrator’s love for this woman is undeniable. The tension builds as the song progresses, culminating in a dramatic moment where the old flame does indeed return. Will the new love stay true? Orbison leaves us hanging for a moment, the music swelling with anticipation. Then, in a heart-stopping twist, she chooses the narrator, walking away with him.
“Running Scared” is a rollercoaster ride of emotions, all delivered in Orbison’s unforgettable style. So, put on your favorite records, dim the lights a touch, and let Roy Orbison take you back to a time of dramatic ballads and soaring vocals.
Barbara Desetto