Introduction:
Bobby Bare’s 1963 country ballad, “500 Miles Away From Home”, is a cornerstone of the genre’s sub-style, countrypolitan. Emerging in the early 1960s, countrypolitan incorporated elements of popular music of the era, like smoother orchestration and lyrical themes that resonated with a broader audience. “500 Miles Away From Home” exemplifies this approach, showcasing Bare’s signature baritone against a backdrop of gentle strings and a melancholic melody.
The song’s origins lie with songwriter Charlie Williams, who penned the lyrics from the perspective of a man traveling a vast distance and longing for home. Released as a single from Bare’s debut studio album of the same name, “500 Miles Away From Home” became a surprise hit. While Bare had found some success prior to 1963, with singles like “A Saint in Satin” reaching the country charts, “500 Miles Away From Home” propelled him to national recognition. The song reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and No. 86 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, demonstrating its crossover appeal. Chet Atkins, a legendary country music producer who had a significant role in shaping the Nashville sound, is credited as the producer on “500 Miles Away From Home” and the entire album. Atkins’ influence is evident in the song’s polished production, characteristic of countrypolitan recordings.
“500 Miles Away From Home” not only launched Bare’s career but also solidified his place within the countrypolitan movement. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its relatable themes of travel, homesickness, and longing. Over the years, “500 Miles Away From Home” has been covered by numerous artists, including folk legend Judy Collins and pop stars like Peter, Paul and Mary. More recently, the song gained renewed recognition after being featured in the Coen brothers’ 2013 film, Inside Llewyn Davis, where it was performed by actors Justin Timberlake and Carey Mulligan.
Today, “500 Miles Away From Home” remains a beloved country classic. Its legacy lies in its poignant portrayal of human emotion, its contribution to the countrypolitan genre, and its enduring place in American popular music.