About the song
Gene Pitney’s “24 Hours From Tulsa” is a classic example of narrative-driven pop music from the early 1960s that continues to resonate with its poignant storytelling and emotive delivery. Released in 1963, the song was written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, a prolific songwriting duo known for their ability to craft hits that blended memorable melodies with thoughtful lyrics.
Gene Pitney, renowned for his distinctive tenor voice and ability to convey deep emotion, brought “24 Hours From Tulsa” to life with his heartfelt performance. The song tells the tale of a man who, while passing through Tulsa, Oklahoma, falls in love with a local woman but ultimately fails to return to her due to a detour that takes longer than expected. The narrative unfolds with a sense of regret and longing, underscored by Pitney’s evocative vocals and the song’s melodic arrangement.
Upon its release, “24 Hours From Tulsa” achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its popularity was not confined to the U.S.; the song also charted well in the United Kingdom, where it peaked at No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart. This dual success solidified Pitney’s status as an international star and showcased his ability to connect with audiences through his storytelling prowess.
The song was featured on Pitney’s album “Blue Gene,” released in 1963, which further showcased his versatility as an artist. “24 Hours From Tulsa” stood out as a highlight on the album, showcasing Pitney’s ability to interpret complex emotions and narratives through his music.
Gene Pitney’s rendition of “24 Hours From Tulsa” remains a timeless classic, beloved for its melodic beauty and poignant lyrics that capture the fleeting nature of love and regret. As we listen to this iconic track, we are reminded of Pitney’s enduring legacy as a masterful storyteller and vocalist whose music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Video
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