Kenny Rogers’ “Love the World Away” isn’t just a love song, it’s a piece of cinematic and musical history. Released in 1980, the track wasn’t originally intended for a film but found its perfect home on the soundtrack for the smash hit movie “Urban Cowboy.”
Written by Bob Morrison and Johnny Wilson, “Love the World Away” arrived just as country music was crossing over into the pop mainstream. The song itself reflects this, with Rogers’ signature smooth vocals delivered over a backdrop that blends country twang with a touch of disco influence. This stylistic approach resonated with audiences, propelling the song to number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, a significant feat for a country song at the time.
“Love the World Away” wasn’t just a hit on the charts; it perfectly captured the heart of “Urban Cowboy,” a film that romanticized the world of mechanical bulls and honky-tonk bars. The song’s lyrics speak of a love so powerful it can erase all worries, a sentiment that resonated with the film’s themes of escape and passion.
While not Rogers’ biggest hit, “Love the World Away” remains a beloved classic. It’s a reminder of a time when country music embraced new sounds and a testament to the power of a well-placed song in film. So crank up the volume and let Kenny Rogers whisk you away with a love that promises to chase all your troubles far, far away.
