About the song
**Jackson Browne’s** iconic song, “Running on Empty,” is a poignant reflection on the transient nature of life and the solitude often experienced on the road. Released in 1977 as the title track of his fifth studio album, this ballad has resonated with audiences for decades, touching upon themes of loneliness, isolation, and the pursuit of meaning.
The song’s introspective lyrics paint a vivid picture of a weary traveler, navigating the vast expanse of America. Browne’s evocative imagery transports listeners to the dusty highways, the late-night diners, and the endless stretches of open road. The song’s title, “Running on Empty,” metaphorically signifies the emotional and spiritual exhaustion that often accompanies a nomadic lifestyle.
Browne’s melancholic vocals and the stripped-down acoustic arrangement create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The simplicity of the music allows the lyrics to take center stage, emphasizing the emotional depth of the song. The repeating refrain, “Running on empty, trying to fill it up,” serves as a powerful anchor, reinforcing the central theme of the song.
“Running on Empty” has become a timeless classic, its appeal extending far beyond its initial release. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal themes, relatable lyrics, and Browne’s evocative storytelling. It continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, serving as a reminder of the human experience and the search for meaning in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain.
Video
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