10 Best Songs With The Word ‘Away’ In The Title

10 Best Songs With The Word 'Away' In The Title

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Whether it’s an anthem of freedom, a tender confession, or a contemplative journey, these tracks resonate deeply with audiences, often becoming defining moments in the careers of the artists who perform them. In this article, we explore ten remarkable songs that incorporate “away” in their titles, celebrating their lyrical depth, emotional resonance, and lasting impact on music and culture.

Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s “Roll Me Away” captures the quintessential spirit of escape and self-reflection, blending Seger’s raspy vocals with a powerful, piano-driven arrangement that has become an anthem for open-road wanderers. The James Gang delivered “Walk Away,” a blistering showcase of Joe Walsh’s fiery guitar work and sharp songwriting, perfectly encapsulating their blend of rock and blues during their peak. Styx’s “Come Sail Away” invites listeners on an imaginative journey, combining Dennis DeYoung’s theatrical vocal delivery with anthemic rock instrumentation to create an enduring classic.

The Rolling Stones brought raw energy to “Not Fade Away,” their early rock hit that merged their blues influences with an infectious rhythm, becoming a staple in their iconic live performances. Dobie Gray’s “Drift Away” stands as a soulful masterpiece, offering a heartfelt ode to the power of music and Gray’s smooth, soothing vocal delivery. Jethro Tull’s “Skating Away on the Thin Ice of the New Day” showcases Ian Anderson’s poetic lyrics and intricate acoustic instrumentation, offering a thought-provoking commentary on societal and personal transformation.

Led Zeppelin’s “Over the Hills and Far Away” serves as a sonic odyssey, seamlessly transitioning between acoustic delicacy and electric ferocity, showcasing the band’s genre-defying versatility. Simon & Garfunkel’s “You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away” interprets Lennon and McCartney’s poignant ballad with their signature harmonies, emphasizing the song’s vulnerability and introspection. Paul Simon’s “Slip Slidin’ Away” is a bittersweet meditation on life’s fleeting moments, delivered with Simon’s lyrical finesse and understated folk instrumentation. Finally, The Byrds bring their jangly guitars and celestial harmonies to “Farther Along,” a spiritually reflective song that adds depth to their already rich catalog.

# 10 – Away From Home – Bachman-Turner Overdrive

Can’t doesn’t get more fun than opening up with a great and very underrated BTO song. From their 1975 album Head On, Bachman-Turner Overdrive’s “Away From Home” captures a raw, nomadic spirit, blending heartfelt storytelling with the band’s signature blend of rock and roll grit. Produced by Randy Bachman, the song was recorded in Vancouver at Kaye-Smith Studios, a location that had become synonymous with the band’s polished yet powerful sound. The track features Randy Bachman on guitar, C.F. Turner on bass and vocals, Robbie Bachman on drums, and Blair Thornton on rhythm and lead guitar, each contributing to the song’s layered, immersive composition.

# 9 – Skating Away on the Thin Ice of the New Day – Jethro Tull

“Skating Away on the Thin Ice of the New Day,” a track from Jethro Tull’s 1974 album War Child, is a masterful blend of folk and rock. Written by Ian Anderson, the song was initially intended for their previous album, A Passion Play, but found its ideal place within War Child.

The song opens with a delicate acoustic guitar riff, supported by Anderson’s distinctive vocals, which gradually build into a rich tapestry of sound featuring contributions from the entire band, including Martin Barre on electric guitar, Jeffrey Hammond on bass, John Evan on piano, and Barriemore Barlow on drums. Anderson’s flute work, a hallmark of Jethro Tull’s sound, adds an ethereal layer to the composition. Recorded at Morgan Studios in London, the production captures both the intimacy of the acoustic passages and the grandeur of the full-band segments.

“Skating Away on the Thin Ice of the New Day” is a contemplative exploration of individuality, uncertainty, and the shifting dynamics of life in a rapidly changing world. Lines such as “As you cross the circle line, the ice-wall creaks behind / You’re a rabbit on the run” metaphorically describe the fragility of existence and the challenges of forging one’s own path.

# 8 – Slip Slidin Away – Paul Simon

Paul Simon’s “Slip Slidin’ Away,” released in 1977 as a single from Greatest Hits, Etc., captures the essence of life’s fleeting moments with poetic precision and emotional resonance. Recorded during sessions that also involved contributions to Simon’s 1975 album Still Crazy After All These Years, the song features Simon’s masterful storytelling and introspective lyricism. It was produced by Phil Ramone and Simon.

The musicianship on “Slip Slidin’ Away” is a highlight, with contributions from an impressive lineup of artists. The song’s serene acoustic guitar work complements Simon’s tender vocal delivery, while the soaring harmonies of The Oak Ridge Boys add a rich, gospel-inspired layer to the track. Lines such as “Slip slidin’ away, the nearer your destination, the more you’re slip slidin’ away” encapsulate the universal struggle of striving for fulfillment while grappling with life’s inevitable uncertainties. The vignettes in the verses—featuring a father, a mother, and a spiritual seeker—create a tapestry of relatable experiences, painting a picture of the delicate balance between ambition and reality.

Despite not appearing on a standard studio album, “Slip Slidin’ Away” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100.

Read More: Top 10 Paul Simon Songs

# 7 – Over The Hills And Far Away – Led Zeppelin

Written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, “Over the Hills and Far Away” is a track that exemplifies Led Zeppelin’s musical versatility. Recorded in 1972 at Stargroves, Mick Jagger’s English estate, using the Rolling Stones’ Mobile Studio, the song was included on the 1973 album Houses of the Holy. Jimmy Page produced the track, with contributions from Robert Plant on vocals, John Bonham on drums, and John Paul Jones on bass and keyboards.

The song opens with a delicate acoustic guitar riff, transitioning into a powerful electric arrangement, showcasing Page’s dynamic guitar work and Plant’s expressive vocal delivery. Lyrically, it delves into themes of freedom, self-discovery, and the yearning for adventure, resonating deeply with the band’s ethos during this period. Although not released as a single in the UK, it charted in the U.S., where it solidified its place as a classic rock staple.

# 6 – Drift Away – Dobie Gray

Originally written by Mentor Williams and recorded by Dobie Gray, “Drift Away” was released in 1973 as part of Gray’s album of the same name. The song was recorded at Quadrafonic Sound Studio in Nashville, Tennessee, with Mentor Williams also producing the track. The musicians featured on the recording included legendary session players from the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, whose contributions lent the track its soulful and polished sound.

“Drift Away” became a signature hit for Gray, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning a Gold certification. Its lyrics encapsulate a longing for musical escapism, with the chorus, “Give me the beat, boys, and free my soul, I wanna get lost in your rock and roll and drift away,” resonating deeply with listeners. The track’s gentle groove, anchored by Gray’s smooth and emotive vocal delivery, helped cement it as a timeless classic.

This enduring anthem has seen numerous covers over the decades, yet Dobie Gray’s version remains definitive. Its blend of soul, pop, and rock elements exemplifies the versatility of early 1970s music and continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia and emotional connection for audiences worldwide.

Read More: Top 10 Dobie Gray Songs

# 5 – Not Fade Away – The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones’ version of “Not Fade Away” captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit that would come to define their early career. Originally written by Buddy Holly and Norman Petty and recorded by Holly’s band, The Crickets, in 1957, this classic was reimagined by The Stones for their 1964 debut album in the U.S. and served as their first single released in America. Recorded at Regent Sound Studios in London in early 1964, the track was produced by Andrew Loog Oldham, who was instrumental in shaping the band’s gritty sound.

The Stones infused their rendition of “Not Fade Away” with a distinctive Bo Diddley-inspired beat, driven by Charlie Watts’ rhythmic drumming and Brian Jones’ bluesy harmonica flourishes. Mick Jagger’s charismatic vocal delivery and Keith Richards’ raw guitar riffs further elevated the track, giving it a swagger that set it apart from the original. The single peaked at number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking the band’s first chart entry in the U.S. and a pivotal step toward their international success.

# 4 – You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away – The Beatles

“You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away,” penned by John Lennon and credited to the Lennon-McCartney partnership, stands as a striking example of The Beatles’ exploration of folk influences. Recorded on February 18, 1965, at EMI Studios in London, the song was produced by George Martin and featured on Help!, the band’s fifth studio album. The track marked a distinct shift in Lennon’s songwriting, showcasing his admiration for Bob Dylan’s introspective and acoustic style.

Musically, the song is notable for its stripped-down arrangement, centering on Lennon’s heartfelt vocal performance and acoustic guitar, accompanied by Paul McCartney on bass and George Harrison on classical guitar. Ringo Starr adds percussion with a tambourine, while John Scott contributes a poignant touch with his flute overdub. This minimalist instrumentation underscores the song’s melancholic tone and introspective lyrics.

# 3 – Come Sail Away – Styx

“Come Sail Away,” written and sung by Dennis DeYoung, is one of Styx’s most iconic songs, blending progressive rock complexity with a pop ballad’s emotional resonance. Released in 1977 on the band’s The Grand Illusion album, the track stands as a testament to Styx’s ability to craft songs that are both musically intricate and widely accessible. Recorded at Paragon Recording Studios in Chicago and produced by Barry Mraz and Rob Kingsland, The Grand Illusion marked a turning point for the band, propelling them into mainstream success.

The song begins as a tender piano ballad, with DeYoung’s emotive lyrics reflecting themes of hope, ambition, and the yearning for escape. As the track progresses, it transforms into a powerful rock anthem, complete with soaring guitar riffs by James “J.Y.” Young and Tommy Shaw, and a dynamic rhythm section courtesy of Chuck Panozzo on bass and John Panozzo on drums. The shift from the delicate opening to the high-energy crescendo showcases the band’s hallmark fusion of progressive and arena rock styles.

Lyrically, “Come Sail Away” is steeped in metaphor, with the journey by sea representing a quest for self-discovery and transcendence. The narrative’s unexpected twist, hinting at extraterrestrial intervention, adds a layer of mystique and whimsy, elevating the song beyond a typical rock ballad. Charting at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Come Sail Away” became a defining hit for Styx, cementing their reputation as masters of blending theatricality with heartfelt storytelling. Its enduring appeal has kept it a staple in the band’s live performances and a beloved classic in the rock canon.

Read More: 10 Most Rocking Styx Songs

# 2 – Walk Away – The James Gang

“Walk Away” stands as one of The James Gang’s most recognizable tracks, showcasing Joe Walsh’s dynamic songwriting and guitar prowess. Released in 1971 as part of the album Thirds, the song was recorded at the Record Plant in Los Angeles and produced by Bill Szymczyk. It features Walsh on lead vocals and guitar, Dale Peters on bass and backing vocals, and Jim Fox on drums. This track not only highlights the band’s synergy but also captures the essence of their blues-infused hard rock style that resonated during the early 1970s.

Charting at number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Walk Away” gained substantial airplay and became a staple of classic rock radio. The song’s structure is built around a compelling riff and a driving rhythm, with Walsh’s slide guitar adding a distinctive texture. Lyrically, it touches on themes of disillusionment and resolution, aligning with the introspective yet assertive tone prevalent in rock during that era

Read More: Top 10 James Gang Songs

# 1 – Roll Me Away – Bob Seger

“Roll Me Away,” one of Bob Seger’s most enduring anthems, captures the spirit of freedom and self-discovery. Released in 1983 as part of the album The Distance, the song was recorded at Criteria Studios in Miami, Florida, and produced by Seger himself alongside engineer Jimmy Iovine. Featuring Seger’s unmistakable raspy vocals and evocative storytelling, the track combines heartfelt lyrics with a soaring, piano-driven rock arrangement. The Silver Bullet Band provided their signature support, with Chris Campbell on bass, Craig Frost on keyboards, and a powerful rhythm section that underscores the song’s driving momentum.

The track gained further prominence after being featured in the 1984 film Teachers and later in the 1994 movie Forrest Gump, cementing its place in popular culture. Lyrically, “Roll Me Away” narrates a journey of personal reflection and renewal, beginning with a sense of discontent and evolving into a celebration of independence and exploration. Seger’s vivid imagery of hitting the open road resonates with listeners, capturing the essence of seeking meaning and escape.

Read More: Top 20 Bob Seger Songs