The Story Behind the Song
“I Drove All Night” is a dramatic and heartfelt song written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, originally intended for and recorded by Roy Orbison in 1987. However, the song was only released posthumously in 1992, four years after Orbison’s death.
Inspiration and Songwriting
Steinberg and Kelly, known for penning hits like “Like a Virgin” and “True Colors,” were lifelong fans of Roy Orbison. Inspired by his unique style, they crafted “I Drove All Night” as a homage to his iconic sound. Billy Steinberg shared in an interview:
“Tom and I were huge Roy Orbison fans. We didn’t initially write the song with the expectation that Roy would record it, but we wanted to capture the spirit of his dramatic storytelling and vocal style.”
The song’s pre-chorus, featuring the lines “Taste your sweet kisses, your arms open wide,”
A Journey of Emotion and Dedication
The title itself was inspired by Steinberg’s drives between Los Angeles and California’s Coachella Valley, a metaphor for the lengths one might go for love. The lyrics reflect a sense of urgency and devotion, mirroring the romantic and dramatic themes often present in Orbison’s music.
Legacy
Orbison’s recording of “I Drove All Night” captures his signature blend of emotion and vocal power, making it a fitting addition to his legacy. Though released after his passing, the song resonates as a testament to his enduring influence on the world of music.
Lyrics
I had to escape, the city was sticky and cruel
Maybe I should have called you first
But I was dying to get to you
I was dreaming while I drove
The long straight road ahead, uh-huh, yeah
Could taste your sweet kisses, your arms open wide
This fever for you was just burning me up inside
I drove all night to get to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night, crept in your room
Woke you from your sleep to make love to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night
What in this world keeps us from falling apart?
No matter where I go
I hear the beating of our one heart
I think about you when the night is cold and dark, uh-huh, yeah
No one can move me the way that you do
Nothing erases this feeling between me and you, oh
I drove all night to get to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night, crept in your room
Woke you from your sleep to make love to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night
Could taste your sweet kisses, your arms open wide
This fever for you is just burning me up inside
I drove all night to get to you
Is that all right?
I drove all night, crept in your room
Is that all right?
I drove all night
I drove all night to get to you
Is that all right?
I drove all nightAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement
