About the song
“The Letter” by The Box Tops is a quintessential hit from the late 1960s, capturing the raw, youthful energy of the era. Released in 1967, this song catapulted the band to stardom with its distinctive sound and poignant lyrics. The Box Tops, fronted by a then-16-year-old Alex Chilton, managed to create a timeless piece that still resonates with listeners today.
“The Letter” was penned by songwriter Wayne Carson Thompson and became an instant sensation upon its release. It was featured on the album “The Letter/Neon Rainbow,” which showcased the band’s versatility and knack for catchy tunes. The song is remarkably short, just under two minutes, yet it leaves a lasting impression with its urgent plea, “Give me a ticket for an aeroplane, ain’t got time to take a fast train.”
Upon its release, “The Letter” soared to the top of the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in September 1967. This impressive feat solidified The Box Tops’ place in music history and demonstrated the powerful appeal of their sound—a blend of blue-eyed soul and rock.
The song’s success is largely attributed to its memorable melody and Chilton’s soulful, gravelly voice, which conveyed a depth of emotion far beyond his years. “The Letter” became one of the defining songs of the 1960s, capturing the spirit of a generation seeking connection and expression through music.
Over the years, “The Letter” has been covered by numerous artists, reflecting its enduring popularity and influence. Joe Cocker’s version in 1970 is one of the most notable covers, adding a bluesy twist to the original. Despite the many renditions, The Box Tops’ version remains the definitive take, a beloved classic that continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by music enthusiasts across generations.
For anyone who lived through the ’60s or appreciates the music from that transformative decade, “The Letter” by The Box Tops is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, embodying the urgency and passion of young love and the timeless quest for connection.
Video
Lyrics
Gimme a ticket for an aeroplane
Ain’t got time to take a fast train
Lonely days are gone, I’m a-goin’ home
My baby, just a wrote me a letter
I don’t care how much money I gotta spend
Got to get back to my baby again
Lonely days are gone, I’m a-goin’ home
My baby, just-a wrote me a letter
Well, she wrote me a letter
Said she couldn’t live without me no more
Listen mister, can’t you see I got to get back
To my baby once-a more
Anyway, yeah
Gimme a ticket for an aeroplane
Ain’t got time to take a fast train
Lonely days are gone, I’m a-goin’ home
My baby, just-a wrote me a letter
Well, she wrote me a letter
Said she couldn’t live without me no more
Listen mister, can’t you see I got to get back
To my baby once-a more
Anyway, yeah
Gimme a ticket for an aeroplane
Ain’t got time to take a fast train
Lonely days are gone, I’m a-goin’ home
My baby, just-a wrote me a letter, my baby just-a wrote me a letter