About the song
“The Letter” by The Box Tops is a timeless classic that captures the essence of 1960s rock and soul. Released in 1967, this song became an instant hit and remains one of the most recognizable tracks of its era. The Box Tops, fronted by the then 16-year-old Alex Chilton, delivered a raw and emotionally charged performance that resonated deeply with listeners.
Written by Wayne Carson, “The Letter” was a concise yet powerful song, clocking in at just under two minutes. Despite its brevity, the song’s impact was immense. It was included on The Box Tops’ debut album, also titled “The Letter/Neon Rainbow,” which showcased the band’s talent and versatility.
Upon its release, “The Letter” soared to the top of the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its success wasn’t limited to the U.S.; the song also charted internationally, cementing The Box Tops’ place in rock history. The song’s driving beat, combined with Chilton’s gravelly, mature voice, created a unique sound that stood out in the pop and rock landscape of the time.
The lyrics of “The Letter” tell the story of a man urgently trying to get back to his loved one after receiving a heartfelt letter. Lines like “Gimme a ticket for an aeroplane, ain’t got time to take a fast train” capture the desperation and longing of the protagonist. Alex Chilton’s soulful and gritty vocal delivery adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to the song, making it easy for listeners to connect with the story.
The production of “The Letter” is characterized by its tight arrangement and prominent use of horns, which was somewhat unusual for rock bands at the time but added a distinctive edge to the track. The instrumental backing provides a perfect complement to Chilton’s vocals, creating a sound that is both powerful and memorable.
“The Letter” remains a beloved song, frequently covered by other artists and featured in various films and TV shows, further testament to its lasting appeal. For those who experienced the late 1960s, the song brings back memories of a dynamic musical era, while for newer generations, it offers a glimpse into the rich legacy of classic rock and soul.
The enduring popularity of “The Letter” is a tribute to the exceptional talent of The Box Tops and the song’s timeless quality. It stands as a classic example of how a simple, heartfelt song can leave a lasting impact on music history.
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