Max Crook, the co-writer of Del Shannon’s hit song “Runaway,” played a significant role in making the song a hit. Max was not only the co-writer of the song but also played a unique keyboard instrument called the Musitron in the middle of the song, giving it an ethereal and unique sound. As a result, the song became a chart-topping hit in several countries in 1961.
Del Shannon and Max Crook were playing at the Hi-Lo nightclub in Battle Creek, Michigan when Del decided he was tired of playing the same-old blues progression songs. He asked Max to play something different, and Max played a couple of new chords back to back – an A-minor and a G. Del liked the sound and started singing random words. When it was time to make the bridge, Max played what came out of his head on the Musitron, sitting alongside the piano’s keyboard. The sound Max came up with on the Musitron is what you hear on the record today.
The song “Runaway” was a chart-topping hit in several countries, including the US, the UK, New Zealand, and Canada. The song’s popularity was due in no small part to Max’s unique contribution, which gave it an ethereal and haunting sound that is still fresh over 60 years later. The song’s popularity is evident from the comments left by viewers on YouTube, who are still blown away by its freshness and uniqueness.
The song was released in 1961, a significant year in American history. John F. Kennedy was inaugurated as the 35th president of the United States, and the Cold War was at its height. In addition, the average price of a gallon of gas was 27 cents, and a dozen eggs cost 57 cents. “Runaway” was released a few years before the British Invasion, which included the Beatles, but it was still a significant hit in its own right.
Max Crook’s contribution to “Runaway” is a testament to his creative genius and the power of collaboration in music. The song’s success proves that the most unique and memorable songs sometimes come from taking risks and trying something new. Del Shannon and Max Crook were not afraid to try something different, resulting in a chart-topping hit that is still loved today.
The song’s beauty and power still move viewers on YouTube, and many regret that today’s generation does not appreciate it as they should. One commenter notes that “the kids of today don’t know what they’re missing,” while another describes it as a “masterpiece.” Some viewers share personal stories about how the song has affected them, while others pay tribute to Del Shannon, who passed away in 1990.
“Runaway” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. Its unique sound and haunting melody are a testament to the creativity of Del Shannon and Max Crook, who took risks and tried something new to create a hit song that has endured for over 60 years. If you haven’t heard the song before, we encourage you to listen to it and share it with your friends. You won’t be disappointed because “Runaway” is truly a masterpiece.
If you liked this, share it with a friend.
