“15 Songs That’ll Make You Wanna Run” features music courtesy of Ella Mai, Kelly Clarkson, The Killers, Lil Peep, and Logic among others.

Do you enjoying ‘running’?  How about ‘running’ things, such as being the boss, CEO, or merely “running your mouth?” Another question – have you ever wanted to ‘run away’ from a situation? Answering my own question, personally, I have, and have tried to run away from situations a couple of times in my life.  Ultimately, it doesn’t work, as it’s better to address the situations head-on as opposed to avoid them.

That said, nothing about 15 Songs That’ll Make You Wanna Run is an advice column or self-help testimonial. No, ultimately, it’s a playlist, with random songs that manage to feature the word ‘run’ in their respective song titles.  Hopefully, you enjoyed the inquiring introduction nonetheless, sigh.  Artists contributing their ‘running’ skills to this list include Ella Mai, Kelly Clarkson, The Killers, Lil Peep, and Logic among others. Oh, and one more thing… Some of the ‘others’ on this list include some independent musicians you totally need to check out – Parker Matthews, Zoey G, and Francois Klark.

---

1. Lil Peep, “Runaway”

Come Over When You’re Sober, Pt. 2 » Columbia » 2018

“Runaway from here / Everybody so fake / Everybody so fake, I swear / I don’t wanna go back there.” “Runaway” features slick, rock-infused hip-hop production, a typical backdrop for the rapper. Following the aforementioned excerpt from the intro by the rapper, a relatively lengthy, repetitive, and catchy pop-rapped chorus follows.

“Take me, away from here
Everybody so fake
Everybody so fake, I swear
But I don't wanna go back there
Everybody so fake
Everybody act like they care...
Why the fuck do everybody act like they care?
I was dying and nobody was there
Please don't cry, baby, life ain't fair.”

Beyond the chorus, there is only one verse that ‘checks off boxes’ regarding the rapper’s characteristics.  Much of modern rap is less concerned about conventional forms and more about vibe, and that’s the case with Peep on “Runaway.” All in all, the record is a success.

---

2. Ella Mai, “Run My Mouth”

Ella Mai » 10 Summers / Interscope » 2018

“All I need is a late-night call / Got me running back, back, back, back / I don’t wanna get over you / I just wanna ‘offer it’ now.”  When a young, promising artist like British singer Ella Mai comes around, there’s definitely hope for R&B, a genre that has cooled off tremendously over the years. On her self-titled debut album, Mai shines like a beacon. She keeps things short and sweet on “Run My Mouth,” which inches past two-and-a-half minutes in duration.  Nonetheless, it’s a worthwhile two-and-a-half-minutes, continuing to be idiomatic of urban contemporary in 2018, intact with f-bomb and a show, unhurried tempo.

“That I’m on my way for your satisfaction (Faction), ‘faction
Caught in bad habits, call me an addict
But I need your satisfaction (Ooh-ooh), ‘faction
You got that kinda somethin’, fuck, it’s good
It make me run my mouth
Oh-oh-oh-oh, ooh, run my mouth
Oh-hoo, run my mouth

---

3. Parker Matthews, “Hit and Run”

Hit and Run [Single] » Matthew Paul Lang » 2018

“Babe, I can tell you’re done, you’re hurting / They knocked you down, did a demolition / But I can see a fire burning / I’ll fix your heart, be your resolution.” Aww. Pittsburgh-bred, Los Angeles-based, pop musician Parker Matthews is the type of person you want to cheer on and will towards success. Take a moment and read about Parker, and you’ll totally understand the aforementioned statement. Notably, music has had a great impact on him, helping him to fight through arduous adversity. He delivers a clear artistic vision on his first single of 2018, “Hit and Run”.

The exuberance is apparent from the start of “Hit and Run,” which commences with rhythmic guitar accompaniment.  This accompaniment is constant throughout the record, contributing to the overall rhythmic flow. Generally, Matthews sings with incredible ease, never over-singing or forcing things, but providing just the right amount of oomph. As “Hit and Run” progresses towards its ‘crowning achievement,’ the chorus, he amps up the energy and overall intensity.  The biggest selling point is the chorus, which is incredibly infectious.

“Stay with me, stay with me tonight
I don’t know but it’s alright
Start it off, start it one by one
Cause this ain’t no hit and run.”

---

4. Logic, “100 Miles and Running”

Ft. John Lindahl & Wale

YSIV » Def Jam » 2018

“New York to L.A., Hawaii, and Japan / I’m the motherfuckin’ man, ‘least I’m feelin’ like I am / Got the whole wide world in the palm of my hand / But don’t give a goddamn, I’m Sam, I am.” Grammy-nominated rapper Logic enlists Wale and John Lindahl for the grooviest song from his 2018 LP, YSIV, “100 Miles and Running.” Safe to say, Sir Robert Hall goes off, delivering his most agile rhymes of the LP.  Wale doesn’t do too shabby for himself either, eating the beat alive during his guest verse (“Been the talk of the town, n*gga, Virginia, Maryland / Did it all for the capital, hope you haven’t forgot”). As for Lindahl? His falsetto is fierce to the nth degree.

“And it’s on now
Everybody know that it’s on now
Get in the zone now
Oh, no, no, no.”

---

5. Nicki Minaj, “Run and Hide”

Queen » Young Money / Cash Money » 2018 

“Who am I to deny? / Yeah, you say who am I to run and hide?” Nicki Minaj didn’t have the smoothest 2018 – understatement.  Nonetheless, she released with her long-awaited fourth studio album, Queen, following a four-year hiatus.  While Queen has its share of bright spots, it doesn’t rank at the top of Minaj’s discography, nor quite live up to its title (keeping it 100). Nonetheless, the brief “Run and Hide” makes an appearance on this ‘run-centric’ list.  Over the course of two-and-a-half minutes, R&B Minaj is experiencing relationship and trust issues – matters of the heart essentially.

On the pre-chorus she asserts:

“‘Cause it’s been a minute since I trusted somebody
‘Cause I don’t never put my trust in nobody
I hate to picture you out fuckin’ somebody
So, I don’t ever put my trust in no body.”

---

6. Zoey G, “Runaway”

Runaway [Single] » Zoey Georgeades » 2018

Zoey G may be young (merely a teen), but despite her youth, she’s incredibly talented – a vocalist, but also a multi-instrumentalist. She shined on her single “Runaway”, which was released in January 2018. The pros are ample on “Runaway.” First and foremost, Zoey G has a marvelous instrument at her disposal.  Her vocals are clear, pure, and smooth.  Her tone is radiant, while her overall approach is easy-going.  She never under- nor over-sings, eschewing histrionics and exhibiting respectable balance.  Another pro is the production, with Latin vibes shining, driven by the guitar and percussion during the verses.  The chorus is backed by the best groove of the record, a full-fledged reggaetón beat.  Naturally, the beat makes you want to dance – no ‘running away’ from that.  Ultimately, “Runaway” is catchy and infectious, particularly the pre-chorus and chorus sections.

---

 

7. Mike Shinoda, “Running from my Shadow”

Ft. Grandson

Post Traumatic » Warner Bros. » 2018

“I’ve been doing greater good for a long time / But I can’t find any other way to give now…” “Running from my Shadow”, an advance single from the Mike Shinoda solo album, Post Traumatic, benefits from top-notch production.  Shinoda matches the energy and intensity of the production, with honest and passionate rhymes, rapping about running from some of his own issues.  He also mentions sacrificing his own well-being for others: “I been putting myself on the sideline / And it’s been time so I’m saying I live now.” Alternative musician Grandson assists him on chorus, the centerpiece of the record, later handling the bridge.

---

8. Francois Klark, “Run”

Love » Francois Klark » 2018

“You made me believe / Made me believe (that) what we had was gonna last forever / Made me believe, made me believe but you lied… Oh, I better run…” South African-born, Canadian singer-songwriter and producer Francois Klark impressed with his awe-inspiring, 2017 debut single, “Spaceman”. In 2018, he returned with an alluring follow-up, “Run”, which like “Spaceman,” appears on his debut album, Love.  Throughout its course, “Run” is enthusiastic and incredibly optimistic-sounding. Set in a major key, it’s all sunshine for Klark. Adding to his ‘sunny day’ are clear, beautiful vocals, which paint his radiant backdrop with absolute perfection.

Klark keeps the form of “Run” standard – two verses, each followed by a chorus, a bridge, and an outgoing chorus.  The chorus isn’t deep lyrically, but effective, memorable, and simple. In this case, the simplicity – repetition – is a great selling point. The bridge ranks as one of the highlights of “Run,” incorporating some slick vocal effects. All in all, strong production – particularly the drums – appealing, clear vocals, and a unique bridge make “Run” a surefire winner.

---

9. The Killers, “Run for Cover”

Wonderful Wonderful » Island » 2017 

“I said ‘Momma I know you’ve tried’ / But she fell on her knees and cried.” “Run for Cover” serves as a highlight from The Killers’ fifth studio album, Wonderful Wonderful.  The record finds Brandon Flowers and company turned up to the nth degree, with 80s new wave cues going full throttle. This is clearly The Killers’ wheelhouse. Flowers pushes his voice to the limit, showcasing infectious energy. The best moment is the powerful, gargantuan chorus. As far as content, there are politics, as well as a reference to Sonny Liston. The central idea seems to be about losses – making mistakes and their ramifications. Ultimately, it rocks.

“Run for cover
Run while you can, baby, don’t look back
You gotta run for cover
Don’t be afraid of the fear, that’s a played-out trap, man
You know you’re not the only one
And don’t look back, just run for cover.”

---

 

10. 21 Savage & Metro Boomin, “Run Up the Racks”

Without Warning » Epic / Motown / Capitol / Republic » 2017

“Countin’ hunnits, yeah n*gga / Diamonds froze, chill n*gga / I went platinum independent then I signed my deal, n*gga.” Without Warning.  Yup, that’s exactly how Without Warning, the collaborative album/mixtape between 21 Savage, Offset, and Metro Boomin arrived in October 2017.  All parties involved have had plenty of success throughout the course of the year prior to Without Warning. “Run up the Racks” gives 21 Savage his second solo turn, following “My Choppa Hate N*ggas.”  The effect is the same: solid, hypnotic flow, albeit deadpan, without offering much brand-new or awe-inspiring. Still, the man is straight up flexing.  “Run up the racks, I’m doin’ it, n*gga.”

---

11. Foo Fighters, “Run”

Concrete and Gold » Roswell / RCA » 2017

“Before the time runs out / There’s somewhere to run / Wake up / Run for your life with me / In another perfect life / In another perfect light / We run / We run / We run / Run!” “Run”, the first full-length number from the 2017 Foo Fighters album, Concrete and Gold, surprisingly commences with a certain amount of restraint. The first half of the intro lacks ferocity.  The second half, however, begins the build-up, which is propelled by drums and capped off with biting guitars. Once the intensity is achieved, there’s a clear departure from the melodic beginning.  The verses are characterized more by grit than tunefulness, while the aforementioned chorus reinstates melodic finesse. Initially a bit off-putting, “Run” unveils its magic with successive listens.  The guitars roar, the drums pound, and there some beautiful melodic moments.

---

12. Wale, “Running Back”

Ft. Lil Wayne

SHINE » Atlantic » 2017

There’s no sugarcoating it. Wale had a surefire ‘flop’ on his hands with his 2017 studio album, Shine.  There have been much worse albums than Shine mind you, but commercially, it performed poorly.  One of the highlights of the album comes by way of the single, “Running Back,” featuring Lil Wayne. Safe to say, the production is slick AF. It’s an atypical sound for Wale (as is most of Shine honestly), but it works out well.  Essentially, this standout is a hard hitting, flex-fest for both rappers.  Wale is on autopilot, using ‘football-speak’ to his advantage.

“Bitches want money stacks, I just want my percent
She told me to hit the hole, I used to play running back
You n*ggas be fumbling, don’t give ‘em no gun again
These bitches be flying out, yeah, ‘cause money be coming in.”

The part about hit the hole is exactly what you think it is.

---

13. PARTYNEXTDOOR, “Don’t Run”

PARTYNEXTDOOR 3 (P3) » OVO Sound / Warner Bros. » 2016

“…She knows what I have to calm her down / She knows it’s not something to run from now / Don’t run, don’t.” Two years after releasing his proper debut album PARTYNEXTDOOR TWO, Canadian alt-R&B artist PARTYNEXTDOOR returned with PARTYNEXTDOOR 3 (P3) in 2016. The song at hand, “Don’t Run,” serves as the second track on the album, following the surefire highlight, “High Hopes.” “Don’t Run” continues on slickly and slow in the typical, lethargic tempo associated with alternative R&B.  The premise is simple – drugs and sex.  Sure, at one point, PND sings “Sit down, have dinner with the folks with you,” but he also sings, “Your mother just called my phone up / Sounds like your party is over.”

---

14. Kelly Clarkson, “Run Run Run”

Ft. John Legend

Piece by Piece » RCA » 2015 

“And you waited on the rain / Through tears, my heart is caged / And we fall through fate and we rise and rise again / And I run, run, run, run, run.” “Run Run Run” has the distinction of being one of the more underrated songs of Grammy-winning pop singer Kelly Clarkson’s career. Appearing on her 2015 album, Piece by Piece, Clarkson is paired with soulful, Grammy-winner John Legend on this Tokio Hotel cover.  Ultimately, the duo delivers a radiant, well-rounded performance. Covers are rarely game changing, and this one is no different, but definitely deserves more recognition than it received.

---

15. Ne-Yo, “Run”

Ft. ScHoolboy Q

Non-Fiction » Motown » 2015

“You better run, run for your life.” What exactly is Ne-Yo suggesting “you better run” from on “Run,” the opener of his 2015 album, Non-Fiction? A particular woman (or women in general) who will entice the man with her scorching hot sex appeal, and ability to wreck committed relationships.  Ne-Yo paints this woman as extremely dangerous, asserting on the first verse, “Shawty get a buzz from ending relationships / Shawty sexing flesh, hips, thighs and her breast made to get ya / She bad enough to make you write her number on the back of your girlfriend’s picture.”  Clearly, she’s got ScHoolboy Q titillated, as he spits, “Hips movin’, yo ass pokin’, young neck breaker / Dress stretching, eyes sparkling, you a breath-taker…”

---

Photo Credits: 10 Summers, Atlantic, Capitol, Cash Money, Def Jam, Epic, Francois Klark, Interscope, Island, Matthew Paul Lang, Motown, OVO Sound, RCA, Republic, Roswell, Warner Bros., Young Money, Zoey Georgeades

---