Tom Petty – Love Is a Long Road

About the song

“Love Is a Long Road” by Tom Petty, released in 1989, is a compelling track from his solo album Full Moon Fever. This album marked a significant milestone in Petty’s career, showcasing his talent as a solo artist while retaining the distinctive sound that had made him a rock icon with The Heartbreakers.

The song was part of the album Full Moon Fever, which was Petty’s first solo venture after achieving considerable success with his band, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Released on April 24, 1989, the album was produced by Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty, and it became a major hit, solidifying Petty’s reputation as a versatile and influential musician. “Love Is a Long Road” is one of the standout tracks on the album, illustrating Petty’s ability to craft songs that are both personal and relatable.

“Love Is a Long Road” explores themes of perseverance and emotional endurance. The lyrics reflect the challenges and complexities of love, portraying it as a journey filled with obstacles and detours. Petty’s evocative storytelling captures the essence of navigating through the ups and downs of relationships, emphasizing that love, while rewarding, requires patience and resilience. The song’s introspective nature is complemented by Petty’s distinctive raspy voice and a melodic rock arrangement that aligns with his signature style.

In terms of social impact, “Love Is a Long Road” fits within the broader context of late 1980s rock, a period characterized by a mix of pop and rock influences. The album Full Moon Fever was well-received and showcased Petty’s ability to evolve as an artist while staying true to his roots. The song, along with the rest of the album, resonated with fans and critics alike, contributing to Petty’s continued success as a solo artist. It reflected the growing trend of rock musicians exploring solo projects and personal themes in their music.

Musically, “Love Is a Long Road” features a blend of rock and heartland influences, marked by its driving rhythm, melodic guitar riffs, and thoughtful lyrics. The production, spearheaded by Jeff Lynne, adds a polished yet authentic feel to the track, capturing Petty’s raw emotional energy while presenting it in a refined musical context. The song’s arrangement highlights Petty’s strengths as a songwriter and performer, making it a memorable and impactful part of Full Moon Fever.

In summary, “Love Is a Long Road” by Tom Petty is a significant track from his 1989 album Full Moon Fever. The song’s exploration of love’s challenges, combined with Petty’s distinctive voice and rock-influenced sound, exemplifies his ability to create deeply resonant music. Its impact is evident in the album’s success and Petty’s continued influence in rock music, making it a notable example of his solo career achievements.

Video

Lyrics

There was a girl I knew
She said she cared about me
She tried to make my world
The way she thought it should be

Yeah, we were desperate then
To have each other to hold

But love
Is a long, long road
Yeah, love
Is a long, long road

There were so many times
I would wake up at noon
Yeah, with my head spinning ’round
I would wait for the moon

And give her one more chance
To try and save my soul

But love
Is a long, long road
Yeah, love
Is a long, long road

Yeah, it was hard to give up
Some things are hard to let go
Some things are never enough
I guess I only can hope

For maybe one more chance
To try and save my soul

But love
Is a long, long road
Yeah, love
Is a long, long road

Love
Is a long, long road
Yeah, love
Is a long, long road (Oh)
Oh, it’s a long, long road