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🎶 Runaway – The Traveling Wilburys’ Hidden Gem of Nostalgia
When musical legends come together, magic is almost guaranteed. That’s exactly what happened when the Traveling Wilburys—a supergroup made up of George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, and Roy Orbison—decided to record a cover of Del Shannon’s 1961 classic “Runaway.” Though it wasn’t part of their main albums, this rare track is a powerful tribute to early rock & roll and one of its original voices.
🔹 The Song: A Classic Reinvented
Originally written and performed by Del Shannon (with keyboardist Max Crook), “Runaway” became an iconic hit in 1961 thanks to its haunting lyrics and that unforgettable clavioline solo. It was a chart-topping success and a defining moment in early rock music.
The Traveling Wilburys’ version of “Runaway” remains true to the original, but adds their own flavor: a smoother production, layered harmonies, and Jeff Lynne’s clean, emotional vocals. The result is a respectful homage that doesn’t try to outshine the original—it simply celebrates it.
🔹 A Tribute to Del Shannon
This version holds special meaning, as Del Shannon was a friend of the group, especially to Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne. Tragically, Shannon died in 1990, around the time the Wilburys were working on their second album (Vol. 3). Covering “Runaway” was more than just revisiting a classic—it was a tribute to someone they admired deeply.
There’s an extra layer of emotion knowing that Shannon himself had been considered as a possible new Wilbury after Roy Orbison passed away. Though it never happened, this cover serves as a touching connection between his legacy and theirs.
🔹 Not on the Albums—But Still a Treasure
The Wilburys recorded “Runaway” during the Vol. 3 sessions in 1990, but it didn’t make the final album. Instead, it was released as a B-side to the single “She’s My Baby.” It remained relatively obscure until it was officially included in the 2007 box set The Traveling Wilburys Collection—where it finally found the audience it deserved.
🔹 Why This Version Stands Out
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Jeff Lynne’s vocals bring warmth and control, honoring Shannon’s original delivery.
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Classic production style that balances retro nostalgia with polished instrumentation.
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A group effort: Though Lynne sings lead, the presence of the entire band adds depth.
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Emotional connection: The personal tribute makes the song even more meaningful.
🎧 Final Thoughts
The Traveling Wilburys’ “Runaway” is more than just a cover—it’s a love letter to an era, a friend, and a sound that helped shape rock history. It may not be their most famous track, but it’s one of their most heartfelt.
If you’re a fan of the Wilburys or curious about how musical icons reinterpret the past, this track is well worth a listen.
