Speed of the Sound of Loneliness
John Prine
The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com
You come home late and you come home early You come on big when you're feeling small You come home straight and you come home curly Sometimes you don't come home at all [Chorus] So what in the world's come over you And what in heaven's name have you done You've broken the speed of the sound of loneliness You're out there running just to be on the run Well I got a heart that burns with a fever And I got a worried and a jealous mind How can a love that'll last forever Get left so far behind [Chorus] It's a mighty mean and a dreadful sorrow It's crossed the evil line today Well, how can you ask about tomorrow We ain't got one word to say [Chorus] You're out there running just to be on the run You're out there running just to be on the run You're out there running just to be on the run
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
17 fans
Written by: John E. Prine
Lyrics © Downtown Music Publishing
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Song Origin"Speed of the Sound of Loneliness" is a song written by American folk and country singer-songwriter John Prine.
|
John Prine's VersionPrine first recorded the song for his 1986 album "German Afternoons". His version was featured on several Prine best-of compilations, including "Great Days: The John Prine Anthology".
|
Nanci Griffith's VersionIt was also covered by Nanci Griffith on her 1993 album "Other Voices, Other Rooms". Griffith is known for her mixture of country, folk, and pop music styles, and her version of the song highlights her distinctive vocal style.
|
Kim Carnes' VersionAmerican singer-songwriter Kim Carnes also covered "Speed of the Sound of Loneliness," bringing her unique raspy voice and pop flavoring to the composition. Carnes's version was included in her 21st studio album "Chasin' Wild Trains".
|
Alabama 3’s VersionA British band popular for their eclectic mix of musical styles, Alabama 3, covered the song as well. This version transformed it into a more electronic, dance-oriented song featured on their album "Exile on Coldharbour Lane". It’s even used as the opening theme song for the British reality TV show "Gavin & Stacey".
|
Song ThemeThe song largely deals with themes of loneliness and confusion. It addresses the question of how one could get so lonely so fast - fast as the "speed of the sound of loneliness".
|
LegacyAs a testiment to its emotional resonance and quality, "Speed of the Sound of Loneliness" has been covered by multiple artists across different genres, its enduring appeal continues to introduce new audiences to Prine's work.
|
Posthumous InfluenceJohn Prine passed away in April 2020 due to complications from Covid-19. Since his death, his music has undergone a resurgence of popularity, shining a spotlight again on iconic songs like "Speed of the Sound of Loneliness".
|
Critical AcclaimThe song is widely seen as an important part of Prine's repertoire, and his ability to capture complex emotional realities in simple, moving lyrics has been widely praised. Many critics regard it as one of his finest works.
|
Title SignificanceThe title, "Speed of the Sound of Loneliness," is a poignant metaphor that Prine uses to talk about the rapidity with which feelings of loneliness and abandonment can creep up, suggesting it moves at the speed of sound.
|
Citation
Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:
Style:MLAChicagoAPA
"Speed of the Sound of Loneliness Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 27 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/2684182/John+Prine/Speed+of+the+Sound+of+Loneliness>.
Powered by CITE.ME
Discuss the Speed of the Sound of Loneliness Lyrics with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In