About The Song
“Leaving on a Jet Plane” is a timeless folk song composed and initially recorded by the legendary American singer-songwriter John Denver in 1966. Originally titled “Babe, I Hate to Go,” it was featured on his debut demo album, “John Denver Sings.” While the song didn’t garner immediate widespread recognition, its destiny was about to change.
In 1973, Denver revisited the song, re-recording it for his iconic album “John Denver’s Greatest Hits.” This version, with its simple yet captivating melody and Denver’s heartfelt vocals, struck a chord with audiences worldwide. The lyrics, expressing a blend of anticipation for the journey ahead and sorrow at leaving a loved one behind, resonated deeply with listeners.
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal theme of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of parting. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, further solidifying its cultural significance. Countless artists, including Peter, Paul and Mary, The Muppets, and Celine Dion, have covered the song, each adding their unique interpretation to its timeless melody.
“Leaving on a Jet Plane” remains a beloved classic, transporting listeners to a place of nostalgia and reflection. Its simple yet profound lyrics and Denver’s signature vocal style continue to captivate audiences, ensuring its place in the pantheon of enduring folk songs.
In addition to its musical significance, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” has also been used in a variety of other media. For example, it was featured in the 1973 film “American Graffiti” and the 1993 film “Sleepless in Seattle.” It has also been used in television shows such as “The Simpsons” and “Friends.”
The song has also been covered by a number of other artists, including The Muppets, Sarah McLachlan, and Pink Floyd. It has also been used in a number of commercials, including one for Delta Air Lines.
“Leaving on a Jet Plane” is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages. Its simple yet profound lyrics and Denver’s signature vocal style make it a perfect song for any occasion. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” is a timeless folk song composed and initially recorded by the legendary American singer-songwriter John Denver in 1966. Originally titled “Babe, I Hate to Go,” it was featured on his debut demo album, “John Denver Sings.” While the song didn’t garner immediate widespread recognition, its destiny was about to change.
In 1973, Denver revisited the song, re-recording it for his iconic album “John Denver’s Greatest Hits.” This version, with its simple yet captivating melody and Denver’s heartfelt vocals, struck a chord with audiences worldwide. The lyrics, expressing a blend of anticipation for the journey ahead and sorrow at leaving a loved one behind, resonated deeply with listeners.
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal theme of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of parting. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, further solidifying its cultural significance. Countless artists, including Peter, Paul and Mary, The Muppets, and Celine Dion, have covered the song, each adding their unique interpretation to its timeless melody.
“Leaving on a Jet Plane” remains a beloved classic, transporting listeners to a place of nostalgia and reflection. Its simple yet profound lyrics and Denver’s signature vocal style continue to captivate audiences, ensuring its place in the pantheon of enduring folk songs.
In addition to its musical significance, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” has also been used in a variety of other media. For example, it was featured in the 1993 film “Sleepless in Seattle,” which helped to introduce the song to a new generation of listeners. The song has also been used in commercials, television shows, and video games.
“Leaving on a Jet Plane” is a truly timeless song that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages. Its simple yet powerful message of love and loss resonates with listeners on a deep level.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
All my bags are packed, I’m ready to go
I’m standing here outside your door
I hate to wake you up to say good-bye
But the dawn is breaking, it’s early morn
The taxi’s waiting He’s blowing his horn
Already I’m so lonesome I could die
So kiss me and smile for me, tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leaving on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh, babe, I hate to go
There’s so many times I’ve let you down
So many times I’ve played around
I tell you now they don’t mean a thing
Every place I go I’ll think of you
Every song I sing I’ll sing for you
When I come back, I’ll bring your wedding ring
So kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leaving on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh, babe, I hate to go
Now the time has come to leave you
One more time let me kiss you
Then close your eyes, I’ll be on my way
Dream about the days to come when I won’t have to leave alone
About the times I won’t have to say
Kiss me and smile for me, tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leaving on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh, babe, I hate to go
I’m leaving on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh, babe, I hate to go