The Meaning Behind The Song: Hitchin’ a Ride by Vanity Fare
In 1970, British pop-rock band Vanity Fare released a single that would become one of their biggest hits, “Hitchin’ a Ride.” The song would eventually reach number 16 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and become one of the most well-known songs of the era. But what is the meaning behind the song? Let’s dive in and explore the lyrics.
The Lyrics
First things first, let’s take a look at the lyrics:
I’m hitchin’ a ride
I’m pickin’ up good vibrations
She’s givin’ me excitations
I’m backin’ my bags and I’m goin’ away
I’m gonna be a big star someday
Now, let’s break it down line by line.
Hitchin’ a Ride
The first line of the song is pretty self-explanatory. The narrator is hitchhiking, or “hitchin’ a ride.” This was a common mode of transportation in the ’60s and ’70s, especially for young people traveling on a budget.
Pickin’ Up Good Vibrations
The second line refers to the Beach Boys’ song “Good Vibrations.” This was a huge hit in 1966 and is considered one of the greatest pop songs of all time. The phrase “good vibrations” became synonymous with positive energy and good feelings.
She’s Givin’ Me Excitations
This line is a play on words. “Excitations” is a made-up word that sounds like “excitement” and “exhilaration.” The narrator is saying that the person who picked him up is giving him those feelings.
I’m Backin’ My Bags and I’m Goin’ Away
This line is pretty straightforward. The narrator is leaving town, likely in search of fame and fortune.
I’m Gonna Be a Big Star Someday
Finally, the last line of the song reveals the narrator’s ambitions. He is confident that he will become a famous musician and make it big.
The Meaning
So what is the meaning behind “Hitchin’ a Ride”? At its core, the song is about chasing your dreams and taking risks to achieve them. The narrator is leaving behind his old life and embarking on a journey to make his dreams a reality.
The Inspiration
According to Vanity Fare lead singer Trevor Brice, the inspiration for “Hitchin’ a Ride” came from an experience he had while hitchhiking himself. In an interview with The Guardian, Brice said, “I was trying to get back home to Northampton from London and a guy in an E-Type Jaguar pulled over. He had previously been the head of the local record shop and he took me to his house and played loads of demos and asked me what I thought. I thought, ‘Wow, imagine being like this guy.'”
Brice’s experience reflects the themes of the song – taking risks and seizing opportunities to achieve your goals.
The Legacy
Even though “Hitchin’ a Ride” was released over 50 years ago, its message still resonates today. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Sinéad O’Connor and Green Day, and is often used in movies and TV shows to evoke a certain era or feeling.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of its message – that it’s never too late to chase your dreams, take risks, and live life on your own terms.
FAQs
1. Who wrote “Hitchin’ a Ride”?
The song was written by Peter Callander and Mitch Murray, two British songwriters who had previously worked together on hits like “How Do You Do It?” and “I Like It” for the Liverpool band Gerry and the Pacemakers.
2. What is the meaning behind the title “Hitchin’ a Ride”?
The title refers to the act of hitchhiking, which was a popular mode of transportation in the ’60s and ’70s, especially among young people.
3. What inspired the song?
Lead singer Trevor Brice has said that the song was inspired by his own experience hitchhiking and being picked up by someone who played him demos of music.
4. What is the message of the song?
The message of “Hitchin’ a Ride” is about taking risks and seizing opportunities to achieve your dreams, even if it means leaving behind your old life and embarking on a journey towards the unknown.
5. What does “pickin’ up good vibrations” mean?
The phrase “pickin’ up good vibrations” is a reference to the Beach Boys’ song “Good Vibrations,” which was a huge hit in 1966. The phrase became synonymous with positive energy and good feelings.
6. What is the significance of “she’s givin’ me excitations”?
The line is a play on words, with “excitations” being a made-up word that sounds like “excitement” and “exhilaration.” The narrator is saying that the person who picked him up is giving him those feelings.
7. Why is the song still popular today?
The enduring popularity of “Hitchin’ a Ride” is a testament to the power of its message – that it’s never too late to chase your dreams, take risks, and live life on your own terms. The song’s themes are timeless and continue to resonate with listeners today.
8. Who has covered “Hitchin’ a Ride”?
The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Sinéad O’Connor, Green Day, and the Boston Pops Orchestra.
9. What movies or TV shows has “Hitchin’ a Ride” been featured in?
The song has been featured in TV shows like Mad Men, Lost, and The Sopranos, as well as movies like Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me and The Secret Life of Pets 2.
10. Did Vanity Fare have any other hits?
Yes, Vanity Fare had several other hits, including “Early in the Morning” and “I Live for the Sun.” However, “Hitchin’ a Ride” remains their most well-known song.
11. What happened to Vanity Fare?
The band continued to record and perform throughout the ’70s, but their popularity eventually waned. They disbanded in the mid-’80s, but reformed in the ’90s and continue to tour to this day.
12. How has “Hitchin’ a Ride” influenced other artists?
The song has been covered by numerous artists and has likely influenced countless others with its message of following your dreams and taking risks. Green Day’s cover version, for example, stays true to the original while adding their own punk rock twist.
