About the song
Get ready to experience a live performance that perfectly captures the restless spirit of the late 70s. We’re diving into Jackson Browne’s iconic anthem, “Running On Empty,” recorded live in 1979. This isn’t just a concert recording; it’s a raw, energetic snapshot of a band at their peak, connecting with a passionate crowd.
“Running On Empty” is more than just a song; it’s a state of mind. It’s about the feeling of constant movement, the allure of the open road, and the bittersweet realities of life on tour. Jackson Browne’s songwriting is legendary, his ability to blend introspection with driving rock and roll is masterful, and this live version perfectly encapsulates that.
While “Running On Empty” and its corresponding album didn’t secure any Grammy Awards, the album received widespread critical acclaim and cemented its place in rock history. It’s regarded as one of the greatest live albums of all time, and its title track is one of Browne’s signature songs. The album captured a snapshot of life on the road, intertwining live performances with snippets of conversations, hotel rooms, and highway scenes. This innovative approach to a live album resonated with audiences and earned a place in the hearts of fans.
This live performance is a testament to Jackson Browne’s stage presence, his band’s tight musicianship, and the visceral connection between them and the audience. You can feel the energy of the crowd, the intensity of the performance, and the raw emotion pouring out of every note.
The song is a powerful blend of rock and roll, folk, and personal storytelling. Browne’s vocals, both vulnerable and strong, draw you into his world. You’ll feel the urgency of the lyrics, the drive of the music, and the sense of shared experience.
So, prepare to be transported back to 1979. Turn up the volume, let yourself get swept away by the live energy, and feel the timeless resonance of “Jackson Browne – Running On Empty (LIVE).” This isn’t just a performance; it’s an experience. Get ready to hit the road with one of the best.
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