About the song
“24 Hours from Tulsa” is a classic song performed by the legendary American singer Gene Pitney. Released in 1963, this song stands as one of Pitney’s most memorable hits, showcasing his emotive vocal style and the poignant storytelling for which he was renowned. The song was written by the prolific songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, who crafted many timeless hits during the 1960s.
The narrative of “24 Hours from Tulsa” unfolds through the voice of a man who, while driving back to his hometown and fiancée, finds himself enchanted by another woman he meets in a small town just 24 hours away from Tulsa. The song captures the emotional turmoil and complexity of his sudden change of heart, evoking a sense of both nostalgia and longing.
“24 Hours from Tulsa” was part of Gene Pitney’s album “Gene Pitney Sings World-Wide Winners,” released in 1963. The song’s vivid storytelling and Pitney’s expressive delivery helped it become a significant hit. It charted well internationally, peaking at No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart and gaining notable popularity in other countries, although it did not achieve the same level of success in the United States.
Gene Pitney’s ability to convey deep emotion and Bacharach and David’s masterful composition made “24 Hours from Tulsa” a standout track in his career. The song remains a beloved piece for many fans of 1960s pop music, illustrating the timeless appeal of Pitney’s voice and the enduring quality of the classic songwriting partnership of Bacharach and David.
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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