When Glam Rock Met a Celtic Fling: Slade’s Unexpected Triumph with “Run Runaway”
“Run Runaway,” a vibrant anthem of youthful escape and the thrill of breaking free, stands as a testament to Slade’s enduring ability to surprise and delight. Released in 1984, a time when the landscape of popular music was rapidly shifting, this single managed to carve its own distinct niche, reaching number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and number 7 in the UK Singles Chart. It’s a song that, upon revisiting, still radiates a raw, unbridled energy, a blend of their signature glam-rock bombast and an unexpected, yet utterly charming, Celtic folk influence.
In the early 80s, Slade, those stalwarts of the 70s glam scene, were facing a challenging period. The seismic shifts in music, with new wave and synth-pop dominating the airwaves, had pushed many of their contemporaries into the shadows. However, Slade, ever the survivors, refused to fade away. They understood the necessity for reinvention, a need to adapt without losing their core identity. “Run Runaway” was born from this period of creative resurgence, marking a pivotal moment in their career.
The story behind the song is as intriguing as its sound. Written by the band’s core songwriting duo, Noddy Holder and Jim Lea, “Run Runaway” emerged from a desire to inject fresh elements into their music. Jim Lea, known for his eclectic musical tastes, had been experimenting with folk instrumentation, particularly the violin. This experimentation led to the incorporation of a distinctive fiddle melody that gave the song its unique, almost jig-like feel. It was a bold move, a departure from their usual hard-rocking anthems, yet it worked brilliantly. The fiddle, far from feeling out of place, added a layer of warmth and exuberance, making the song instantly memorable.
The meaning of “Run Runaway” resonates with the timeless themes of youthful rebellion and the yearning for freedom. It speaks to the desire to escape the mundane, to break free from the constraints of everyday life and embrace the thrill of the unknown. Holder’s powerful vocals, delivered with his characteristic rasp and energy, capture this sense of urgency and excitement. The lyrics, while simple, are effective in conveying the feeling of being swept away by a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. It’s a song that encourages listeners to let go, to embrace their inner child, and to chase after their dreams, however fleeting they may be.
The song appeared on their 1984 album, “The Amazing Kamikaze Syndrome” (or “Keep Your Hands Off My Power Supply” in the US), an album that showcased Slade’s ability to adapt and evolve. While the album itself didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as their 70s heyday, “Run Runaway” stood out as a shining example of their enduring talent. It became a staple of their live performances, a crowd-pleaser that never failed to ignite the audience.
For those of us who remember the 80s, “Run Runaway” evokes a sense of nostalgia, a reminder of a time when music was bold, vibrant, and unapologetically fun. It’s a song that transports us back to a time of big hair, bright colors, and boundless energy. It’s a reminder that even in the face of change, true talent and creativity will always find a way to shine through. It’s a testament to Slade’s resilience, their ability to reinvent themselves, and their enduring legacy as one of the most beloved and influential bands of their generation. And truly, in the grand tapestry of rock and roll, “Run Runaway” remains a bright, unforgettable thread.