Runnin' Away - Sly & The Family Stone
"Runnin' Away" by Sly & The Family Stone is a song that was released in 1969 as a single and later included in their album "Stand!". The song features a blend of funk, soul, and rock elements, characteristic of the band's unique sound. The theme of the song revolves around the idea of running away from one's problems or troubles. The lyrics speak to the desire to escape and find a sense of freedom, but also acknowledge the difficulty of truly leaving everything behind. The upbeat tempo and energetic instrumentation create a sense of urgency and movement, reflecting the theme of running away. Musically, "Runnin' Away" is driven by a catchy bassline, funky guitar riffs, and dynamic horn arrangements. Sly Stone's distinctive vocals add a soulful and passionate element to the song. The chorus features a repetitive refrain of "You're the one I've been running from, but now I'm running to", emphasizing the theme of facing one's fears and challenges head-on. One notable fact about "Runnin' Away" is that it was a commercial success, reaching the top 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song's infectious groove and memorable lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Sly & The Family Stone's live performances. Overall, "Runnin' Away" is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences for its powerful message and infectious sound.
Sly & The Family Stone
Sly & The Family Stone was an American band that was formed in 1966 in San Francisco, California. The band was led by singer-songwriter Sly Stone, who was known for his innovative blend of rock, funk, and soul music. The band's lineup included Sly Stone on vocals and keyboards, his brother Freddie Stone on guitar, his sister Rose Stone on keyboards, trumpet player Cynthia Robinson, drummer Greg Errico, saxophonist Jerry Martini, and bassist Larry Graham. Sly & The Family Stone quickly gained a reputation for their energetic live performances and their socially conscious lyrics. They released their debut album, "A Whole New Thing," in 1967, which featured the hit single "Dance to the Music." The following year, they released their breakthrough album, "Stand!," which included the hit singles "Everyday People" and "I Want to Take You Higher." The album was a critical and commercial success, and is now considered a classic of the psychedelic soul genre. Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, Sly & The Family Stone continued to release a string of successful albums, including "There's a Riot Goin' On" and "Fresh." They were known for their genre-defying sound, which combined elements of funk, rock, soul, and psychedelia. Sly Stone's charismatic stage presence and powerful voice made him a standout frontman, while the band's tight musicianship and infectious grooves earned them a devoted fan base. Sly & The Family Stone's impact on music was immense. They were one of the first integrated bands in popular music, breaking down racial barriers and paving the way for future generations of artists. Their music was also groundbreaking in its fusion of different genres, influencing countless musicians in the years to come. Songs like "Everyday People" and "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)" became anthems of the civil rights and Black Power movements, resonating with audiences around the world. Despite their success, Sly & The Family Stone struggled with internal tensions and drug abuse, which ultimately led to the band's breakup in 1975. Sly Stone continued to record and perform sporadically in the following decades, but never achieved the same level of success as he did with The Family Stone. However, their influence on music remains undeniable, with their innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics continuing to inspire artists to this day. Sly & The Family Stone's legacy as pioneers of funk and soul music is secure, and their music will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.