About the song
Jackson Browne, a renowned folk rock singer-songwriter, penned “Running on Empty” as a poignant reflection on the challenges of fame, the demands of touring, and the search for meaning in life. This introspective track, released in 1977, became a hit single and a defining song on Browne’s album of the same name.
With his distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics, Browne explores the themes of loneliness, isolation, and the desire for connection. Through evocative imagery and Browne’s emotive delivery, listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.
The opening lines, “I’m running on empty, a fool on the run,” immediately establish the song’s central theme. Browne describes the exhaustion and disillusionment that comes with a life on the road, as well as his longing for a sense of belonging and purpose. The song’s refrain, “I’m running on empty, a fool on the run,” conveys a sense of despair and hopelessness.
Throughout the song, Browne uses vivid imagery and relatable anecdotes to illustrate his struggles. He references the “lonely hotel rooms” and the “endless miles” of touring. The lyrics evoke a sense of empathy and compassion, while also highlighting the challenges of fame and the pursuit of a meaningful life.
“Running on Empty” is more than just a personal anthem; it is a testament to the human condition and the search for meaning in life. Browne’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful performance resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the importance of connection, purpose, and the pursuit of happiness. This timeless classic continues to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide, serving as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to find meaning and fulfillment.
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Lyrics
Lookin’ out at the road rushin’ under my wheels
Lookin’ back at the years gone by like so many summer fields
In ’65 I was seventeen and runnin’ up 101
I don’t know where I’m runnin’ now, I’m just runnin’ on
runnin’ on empty
(Runnin’ on) runnin’ blind
(Runnin’ on) runnin’ into the sun
But I’m runnin’ behind
Gotta do what you can just to keep your love alive
Tryin’ not to confuse it with what you do to survive
In ’69 I was twenty-one and I called the road my own
I don’t know when that road turned onto the road I’m on
runnin’ on empty
(Runnin’ on) runnin’ blind
(Runnin’ on) runnin’ into the sun
But I’m runnin’ behind
Everyone I know
Everywhere I go
People need some reason to believe
I don’t know about anyone but me
If it takes all night
That’d be alright
If I can get you to smile before I leave
Lookin’ out at the road rushin’ under my wheels
I don’t know how to tell you all just how crazy this life feels
I look around for the friends that I used to turn to to pull me through
Lookin’ into their eyes, I see them runnin’ too
runnin’ on empty
(Runnin’ on) runnin’ blind
(Runnin’ on) runnin’ into the sun
But I’m runnin’ behind
Honey, you really tempt me, you know, the way you look so kind
I’d love to stick around, but I’m runnin’ behind
(Runnin’ on)
You know I don’t even know what I’m hopin’ to find
(Runnin’ blind)
Runnin’ into the sun but I’m runnin’ behind