About the song
Gene Pitney, a prominent figure in the early 1960s pop music scene, often found himself at the intersection of heartland rock and the sophisticated songwriting of the Brill Building. His music, characterized by its emotional depth and melodic richness, resonated with audiences worldwide. One such gem from his repertoire is “24 Hours from Tulsa,” a poignant ballad that showcases his vocal prowess and the songwriting talents of Burt Bacharach and Hal David.
Released in 1964, “24 Hours from Tulsa” paints a vivid picture of longing and regret. The song’s narrative revolves around a man who is on the brink of a significant life change, perhaps a new job or a fresh start. However, as he prepares to depart, he finds himself haunted by memories of a past love and the city he’s leaving behind. The title itself, “24 Hours from Tulsa,” evokes a sense of urgency and finality, as the protagonist grapples with the weight of his decisions.
Pitney’s vocal delivery is both tender and powerful, capturing the emotional turmoil of the song’s protagonist. His voice, rich and expressive, conveys a sense of longing and melancholy that resonates with listeners. The arrangement, featuring a lush orchestral backdrop and a simple yet effective melody, complements Pitney’s vocals and enhances the song’s emotional impact.
“24 Hours from Tulsa” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. Its evocative lyrics, combined with Pitney’s heartfelt performance, make it a must-listen for fans of pop music and those seeking a taste of the golden age of songwriting.
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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