About the song
“Hit the Road Jack” is a renowned song performed by Gladys Knight and Ray Charles, released in 1979. Originally written and recorded by Percy Mayfield in 1960, the track became famous through Ray Charles’s original version, but the duet with Gladys Knight brought a fresh energy and interpretation to the classic.
The song’s narrative revolves around a tumultuous romantic relationship where the female protagonist tells her unfaithful partner to leave. The phrase “Hit the road, Jack” has become iconic, symbolizing the act of kicking someone out for their misdeeds. The interplay between Knight’s powerful, soulful voice and Charles’s distinctive, raspy tones creates a dynamic contrast that enhances the song’s emotional depth.
Musically, the track blends elements of rhythm and blues, soul, and jazz, featuring an infectious piano riff and an upbeat tempo that encourages listeners to sing along. The call-and-response format showcases the chemistry between Knight and Charles, highlighting their vocal prowess and ability to convey the song’s narrative.
“Hit the Road Jack” became a significant hit, achieving commercial success and earning critical acclaim. It remains one of Ray Charles’s most memorable songs and is celebrated for its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics. The collaboration between Knight and Charles is often praised for its artistry, contributing to the legacy of both artists in the music industry. The song continues to be a beloved classic, frequently featured in movies, commercials, and various media, resonating with audiences across generations.
Video
Lyrics
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
What you say?
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
Old woman, old woman, don’t treat me so mean
You’re the meanest old woman that I’ve ever seen
I guess if you said so
I’ll have to pack my things and go (that’s right)
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
What you say?
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
Now baby, listen baby, don’t ya treat me this way
‘Cause I’ll be back on my feet some day
(Don’t care if you do ’cause it’s understood)
(You ain’t got no money, you just ain’t no good)
Well, I guess if you say so
I’ll have to pack my things and go (that’s right)
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
What you say?
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
Well (don’t you come back no more)
Uh, what you say? (Don’t you come back no more)
I didn’t understand you (don’t you come back no more)
You can’t mean that (don’t you come back no more)
Oh, now baby, please (don’t you come back no more)
What you tryin’ to do to me? (Don’t you come back no more)
Oh, don’t treat me like that (don’t you come back no more)