About the song
## The Box Tops – The Letter (1967)
**A Timeless Ballad of Love and Loss**
In the summer of 1967, a young band from Memphis, Tennessee, burst onto the music scene with a heart-wrenching ballad that would become their signature song. The Box Tops, a group of teenagers barely out of their teens, delivered a performance that transcended their age and experience. “The Letter” was more than just a hit single; it was a testament to the power of vulnerability and the enduring nature of love.
The song’s introspective lyrics, penned by Wayne Carson, paint a vivid picture of a man grappling with the loss of a loved one. The protagonist receives a letter that brings back painful memories and reignites his longing. Carson’s words are both poignant and relatable, striking a chord with listeners of all ages.
The Box Tops’ interpretation of “The Letter” is nothing short of masterful. The band’s harmonies are rich and emotive, perfectly complementing the song’s melancholic tone. Alex Chilton’s lead vocals are raw and heartfelt, conveying the character’s deep sorrow and regret. The instrumentation, featuring a driving rhythm and a soaring guitar solo, adds a sense of urgency and passion to the performance.
What sets “The Letter” apart is its timeless quality. The song’s themes of love, loss, and longing are universal, resonating with audiences across generations. The lyrics and melody have a haunting beauty that lingers long after the final note fades. It is a song that invites reflection and introspection, reminding us of the fragility of human relationships and the enduring power of music.
“The Letter” remains a classic for a reason. It is a testament to the artistry of The Box Tops and a reminder of the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and souls. It is a song that has stood the test of time, continuing to captivate and inspire listeners decades after its release.
Video
Lyrics
Gimme a ticket for an aeroplane
Ain’t got time to take a fast train
Lonely days are gone, I’m a-goin’ home
My baby, just a wrote me a letter
I don’t care how much money I gotta spend
Got to get back to my baby again
Lonely days are gone, I’m a-goin’ home
My baby, just-a wrote me a letter
Well, she wrote me a letter
Said she couldn’t live without me no more
Listen mister, can’t you see I got to get back
To my baby once-a more
Anyway, yeah
Gimme a ticket for an aeroplane
Ain’t got time to take a fast train
Lonely days are gone, I’m a-goin’ home
My baby, just-a wrote me a letter
Well, she wrote me a letter
Said she couldn’t live without me no more
Listen mister, can’t you see I got to get back
To my baby once-a more
Anyway, yeah
Gimme a ticket for an aeroplane
Ain’t got time to take a fast train
Lonely days are gone, I’m a-goin’ home
My baby, just-a wrote me a letter, my baby just-a wrote me a letter