Country Music

Classic Country Music Hits

Country Music

Hank Snow – Ninety Miles An Hour

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

Hank Snow’s “Ninety Miles An Hour” is one of those songs that manages to capture the essence of a harrowing emotional journey. Its narrative pulls you in, making you feel the rush and urgency of its storyline. With its compelling lyrical story, Snow’s rendition of the song leaves a lasting impression on anyone who gives it a listen. This track is a perfect example of the storytelling prowess that country music is known for, and Snow’s performance is nothing short of iconic.

About The Composition

  • Title: Ninety Miles An Hour (Down a Dead End Street)
  • Composer: Hal Blair and Don Robertson
  • Premiere Date: 1963
  • Album/Opus/Collection: Unknown
  • Genre: Country

Background

“Ninety Miles An Hour (Down a Dead End Street)” was written by Hal Blair and Don Robertson and performed by Hank Snow in 1963. The song was released during a period when country music was gaining widespread popularity, and it quickly became one of Snow’s memorable hits. It tells the tale of a love affair that is both thrilling and dangerous, akin to driving at high speeds down a road to nowhere. The song was well-received, demonstrating Snow’s ability to convey deep emotion and narrative through music, contributing to its enduring appeal.

Musical Style

The song features classic country elements, including a steady rhythm and twangy guitar lines, that support Snow’s rich vocal delivery. Its arrangement complements the narrative, creating a sense of tension and inevitability that mirrors the song’s storyline.

Lyrics/Libretto

Lyrically, “Ninety Miles An Hour” delves into themes of temptation and recklessness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a passionate yet doomed affair, using the metaphor of speeding down a dead-end street to illustrate the inevitable consequences of such a relationship.

Performance History

Over the years, “Ninety Miles An Hour” has been covered by various artists, each bringing their own interpretation to the song. These performances have helped to keep the song in the public consciousness, showcasing its versatility and appeal across different musical styles.

Cultural Impact

The song has maintained a presence in popular culture due to its relatable themes and memorable storytelling. It has appeared in various media, further cementing its status as a classic within the country music genre.

Legacy

Today, “Ninety Miles An Hour” remains an important piece of Hank Snow’s legacy and a testament to the enduring power of narrative-driven songwriting in country music. Its continued relevance speaks to the universal nature of its themes and the skill with which it was crafted.

Conclusion

“Ninety Miles An Hour” by Hank Snow is more than just a song; it’s a journey through the highs and lows of human emotion. I encourage you to listen to this classic track and explore its rich storytelling and musicality. It’s a timeless piece that offers something new with each listen.

Video

Lyrics

I took you home from a party and we kissed in fun

A few stolen kisses and no harm was done

Instead of stopping when we could, we went right on

‘Til suddenly we found that the brakes were gone

You belong to someone else and I do too

It’s just crazy bein’ here with you

Like a bad motorcycle with the devil in the seat

Goin’ ninety miles an hour down a dead end street

I didn’t want to want you but now I have no choice

It’s too late to listen to that warning voice

All I hear is thunder when two hearts beat

Goin’ ninety miles an hour down a dead end street

You’re not free to belong to me

And you know that I could never be your own

But your lips on mine are like sweet, sweet wine

But we’re heading for a wall of stone

Warning signs are flashing by but we pay no heed

Instead of slowing down the pace, we keep pickin’ up speed

Disaster’s getting closer every time we meet

Goin’ ninety miles an hour down a dead end street

You’re not free to belong to me

And you know that I could never be your own

But your lips on mine are like sweet, sweet wine

But we’re heading for a wall of stone

Warning signs are flashing by but we pay no heed

Instead of slowing down the pace, we keep pickin’ up speed

Disaster’s getting closer every time we meet

Goin’ ninety miles an hour down a dead end street

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