About the song
Ray Charles, the legendary “Genius,” graced the Saturday Night Live stage in 1996 with a performance that’s still talked about today. His rendition of “Hit the Road Jack” was a timeless classic, reimagined for a new generation.
Originally released in 1961, “Hit the Road Jack” became an instant hit, topping the charts and solidifying Charles’ status as a musical icon. The song’s catchy melody and infectious rhythm made it a staple of popular culture. But it was Charles’ soulful vocals and impeccable timing that truly brought the song to life.
In his Saturday Night Live performance, Charles delivered a masterclass in showmanship. His deep, gravelly voice filled the studio with emotion, each note resonating with a raw intensity. The band provided a solid foundation, their rhythmic interplay complementing Charles’ vocal performance perfectly.
The song’s lyrics, about a man urging his lover to leave him alone, were delivered with a playful irony. Charles’ interpretation was both humorous and heartfelt, as he seemed to relish the opportunity to sing about a man’s frustration. His delivery was so convincing that it was easy to imagine him actually going through the emotions described in the song.
The audience was captivated by Charles’ performance, their enthusiasm palpable. The singer responded in kind, feeding off the energy of the crowd. By the end of the song, the audience was on their feet, cheering and applauding. It was a moment of pure musical magic.
Charles’ performance of “Hit the Road Jack” on Saturday Night Live was a testament to his enduring talent. It was a reminder of why he was considered one of the greatest musicians of all time. His ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level was unmatched. And his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.
Video
Lyrics
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
What you say?
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
Old woman, old woman, don’t treat me so mean
You’re the meanest old woman that I’ve ever seen
I guess if you said so
I’ll have to pack my things and go (that’s right)
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
What you say?
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
Now baby, listen baby, don’t ya treat me this way
‘Cause I’ll be back on my feet some day
(Don’t care if you do ’cause it’s understood)
(You ain’t got no money, you just ain’t no good)
Well, I guess if you say so
I’ll have to pack my things and go (that’s right)
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
What you say?
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
Well (don’t you come back no more)
Uh, what you say? (Don’t you come back no more)
I didn’t understand you (don’t you come back no more)
You can’t mean that (don’t you come back no more)
Oh, now baby, please (don’t you come back no more)
What you tryin’ to do to me? (Don’t you come back no more)
Oh, don’t treat me like that (don’t you come back no more)