About the song
“Running Away” by Bob Marley is a deeply resonant track from one of the most influential figures in reggae music. Released in 1980, this song is part of Marley’s final studio album, “Uprising”. The album, which came out just a year before Marley’s untimely death, represents a poignant blend of political, social, and personal themes, reflecting his enduring message of peace and resilience.
“Running Away” is a compelling illustration of Marley’s ability to address complex emotions and societal issues through music. The song explores themes of disillusionment and the desire for escape from oppressive circumstances. Marley’s lyrics convey a profound sense of struggle and yearning for freedom, capturing the essence of feeling trapped by life’s difficulties and the quest for a better existence. The track is characterized by its melancholic melody, smooth rhythm, and Marley’s signature soulful vocals, which together create a powerful and introspective listening experience.
The significance of “Running Away” extends beyond its lyrical content. The song’s release came during a tumultuous time for Marley, both personally and politically. His health was deteriorating, and the world was grappling with numerous social issues. In this context, the song’s themes of escape and searching for solace resonate deeply with listeners who may feel similarly oppressed or in need of a reprieve from life’s challenges.
“Running Away” also reflects Marley’s broader impact on music and society. His unique ability to blend reggae with social commentary made him a global icon and a voice for the marginalized. The song contributes to the rich tapestry of Marley’s work, which often intertwines personal struggles with universal themes of liberation and justice. Marley’s influence on reggae music and his role in spreading messages of peace and resistance remain significant, and “Running Away” stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.
The track’s impact can also be seen in its reception and continued relevance. Although not as commercially prominent as some of Marley’s other hits, such as “No Woman, No Cry” or “One Love”, “Running Away” has been appreciated by fans and critics alike for its raw emotional depth and insightful lyrics. It adds to the album’s overall theme of resilience and hope, reinforcing Marley’s position as a transformative figure in music.
In summary, “Running Away” is a poignant and reflective piece from Bob Marley that encapsulates his ability to merge personal introspection with broader social commentary. The song’s release in 1980, as part of the influential “Uprising” album, underscores Marley’s enduring relevance and his profound impact on both music and social thought. It remains a powerful example of his capacity to address universal themes through the soulful and evocative medium of reggae.
Video
Lyrics
Ya running and ya runningAnd ya Running Away.Ya running and ya runningAnd ya Running Away.Ya running and ya runningAnd ya Running Away.Ya running and ya running,But ya can’t run away from yourselfCan’t run away from yourselfCan’t run away from yourselfCan’t run away from yourselfCan’t run away from yourselfCan’t run away from yourself.Ya must have done (must have done),Somet’in’ wrong (something wrong)Said: ya must have done (must have done)Wo! Somet’in’ wrong (something wrong)Why you can’t find thePlace where you belong?Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do (Running Away)Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do (Running Away)Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do (Running Away)Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do (Running Away)Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do (Running Away)Every man thinketh hisBurden is the heaviest (heaviest)Every man thinketh hisBurden is the heaviest (heaviest)Ya still mean it:Who feels it knows it, LordWho feels it knows it, LordWho feels it knows it, LordWho feels it knows it, LordYa running and ya runningAnd ya Running Away.Ya running and ya runningAnd ya Running Away.Ya running and ya runningAnd ya Running Away.Ya running and ya runningBut ya can’t run away from yourself.Could ya run away from yourself?Can you run away from yourself?Can’t run away from yourself!Can’t run away from yourself!Yeah-eah-eah-eah – from yourself.Brr – you must have done somet’in’Somet’in’, somet’in’, somet’in’Somet’in’ ya don’t want nobody to know aboutYa must have, Lord – somet’in’ wrong,What ya must have doneya must have done somet’in’ wrong.Why you can’t find where you belong?Well, well, well, well,ya Running Away, heh, noYa Running Away, ooh, no, no, no,I’m not (Running Away), no, don’t say that, don’t say that,‘Cause (Running Away) I’m not Running Away, ooh!(Running Away)I’ve got to protect my life,(Running Away)And I don’t want to live with no strife(Running Away)It is better to live on the housetop(Running Away)Than to live in a house full of confusion(Running Away)So, I made my decision and I left ya(Running Away)Now you comin’ to tell me(Running Away)That I’m runnin’ away(Running Away)But it’s not true(Running Away)I am not runnin’ away(Running Away)