“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Five Hundred Miles” is one of those folk songs that captures a feeling of loneliness and yearning, resonating deeply with anyone who’s ever felt the pangs of separation. Originally popularized in the early 1960s, it has since been covered by numerous artists, each adding their unique touch to this classic. I remember first hearing it on a road trip, the steady rhythm of the melody aligning perfectly with the hum of the car engine, making the distance between home and the road ahead seem both endless and captivating. This sense of longing and homesickness has made the song an enduring anthem for wanderers and dreamers alike.
About the Composition
- Title: Five Hundred Miles
- Composer: Hedy West (credited as one of the original writers)
- Premiere Date: Early 1960s
- Album/Collection: “The Best of the Seekers” by The Seekers
- Genre: Folk, Ballad
Background
“Five Hundred Miles” has its roots in the American folk music revival of the 1960s. It was written by Hedy West, a prominent folk singer-songwriter, and captures the bittersweet emotions of a traveler far from home. The song became a hit after being performed by Bobby Bare and later by The Seekers, an Australian group who brought a unique charm and harmonious style to it. The song’s simple yet evocative lyrics speak of someone separated by a daunting distance from their loved ones, too ashamed to return empty-handed. Its universal theme of longing for home and regrets makes it a timeless piece that still resonates today.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Five Hundred Miles” is rooted in the folk tradition, characterized by a straightforward melody and gentle acoustic accompaniment. The Seekers’ version is marked by clean harmonies and a soft, lilting tempo that mirrors the melancholy lyrics. The guitar plays a central role, providing a steady rhythm that complements the vocal harmony, which is where the song truly shines. The simplicity of the composition allows the emotion in the lyrics to take center stage, making it easy to feel the yearning and loneliness expressed in each verse.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics of “Five Hundred Miles” revolve around themes of regret, homesickness, and the feeling of being lost. Phrases like “If you miss the train I’m on, you will know that I am gone” set the tone of a journey without a clear destination, while “Lord, I’m five hundred miles away from home” captures the weight of separation. The repeated refrain emphasizes a sense of hopelessness and weariness, with each line highlighting the great physical and emotional distance the singer feels from home. This emotional vulnerability is what has made the song relatable to countless listeners over the decades.
Performance History
The song first gained widespread popularity through Peter, Paul and Mary’s rendition, but The Seekers’ version brought it to an even broader audience. Their harmonious vocals added a new dimension to the song, making it more accessible and poignant. Over the years, “Five Hundred Miles” has been performed and recorded by a wide range of artists, including Johnny Cash, Rosanne Cash, and even Justin Timberlake in the 2013 movie Inside Llewyn Davis. Each performance has contributed to the song’s legacy, adding layers of meaning and emotional depth.
Cultural Impact
“Five Hundred Miles” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural marker of the 1960s folk revival era. Its influence extends beyond music, appearing in films, TV shows, and commercials. The song has been translated into multiple languages, resonating with listeners around the world. Its plaintive melody and evocative lyrics have made it a go-to for evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing, making it a favorite choice in scenes depicting loneliness or travel. The Seekers’ version, in particular, stands out for its harmonized vocals and acoustic simplicity, making it a definitive recording of this folk classic.
Legacy
The legacy of “Five Hundred Miles” lies in its timelessness. Decades after its release, the song continues to touch audiences with its poignant portrayal of homesickness and regret. Its simplicity is its strength—both in musicality and message. It’s a song that anyone who has ever been away from home or felt the weight of unfulfilled dreams can relate to. The Seekers’ rendition remains one of the most beloved versions, capturing the essence of the song’s heartache and hope. To this day, “Five Hundred Miles” is a staple in the folk music repertoire, covered by artists of all genres, proving its enduring appeal.
Conclusion
“Five Hundred Miles” is a song that speaks to the soul, offering a sense of solace for those who have wandered far from home. Its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics remind us that no matter how far we roam, the longing for home is a universal experience. I would recommend starting with The Seekers’ version to fully appreciate the harmonized beauty of the song, then exploring renditions by other artists to hear how this timeless piece has been reinterpreted over the years. Whether you’re a long-time fan or hearing it for the first time, “Five Hundred Miles” is a journey worth taking.
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Lyrics
If you miss the train I’m on you will know that I am gone
You will hear the whistle blow a hundred miles
A hundred miles a hundred miles a hundred miles a hundred miles
You will hear the whistle blow a hundred miles
Lord I’m one Lord I’m two Lord I’m three Lord I’m four
Lord I’m five hundred miles away from home
Away from home Away from home
Away from home Away from home
Lord I’m five hundred miles away from home
Not a shirt on my back not a penny to my name
Lord I can’t go back home this a way
This a way This a way
This a way This a way
Lord I can’t go back home this a way
Lord I’m one Lord I’m two Lord I’m three Lord I’m four
Lord I’m five hundred miles away from home
Away from home Away from home
Away from home Away from home
Lord I’m five hundred miles away from home