Pretenders

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
I went back to Ohio
But my city was gone
There was no train station
There was no downtown
South Howard had disappeared
All my favorite places
My city had been pulled down
Reduced to parking spaces

[Chorus]
Ay, oh, way to go, Ohio

[Verse 2]
Well, I went back to Ohio
But my family was gone
I stood on the back porch
There was nobody home
I was stunned and amazed
My childhood memories
Slowly swirled past
Like the wind through the trees

[Chorus]
Ay, oh, way to go, Ohio
[Guitar Solo]

[Verse 3]
I went back to Ohio
But my pretty countryside
Had been paved down the middle
By a government that had no pride
The farms of Ohio
Had been replaced by shopping malls
And Muzak filled the air
From Seneca to Cuyahoga Falls

[Chorus]
Said, ay, oh, way to go, Ohio

[Guitar Solo Outro]

Have you ever revisited a place from your childhood only to find it completely transformed? That's the sentiment behind "My City Was Gone," a poignant song performed by The Pretenders. Written by lead singer Chrissie Hynde, this track reflects her growing interest in environmental and social concerns. As she returns to her childhood home in Ohio, she is confronted with the devastating effects of rampant development and pollution that have destroyed the once idyllic countryside she cherished. Through heartfelt lyrics and a powerful melody, she takes the listener on a journey of lament and introspection.

Upon listening to "My City Was Gone," you may immediately recognize the distinctive instrumental opening. This iconic melody has been the opening theme for Rush Limbaugh's popular American talk radio program since 1984. It is interesting to note that Limbaugh, a conservative, chose a song that embodies anti-conservative sentiments. The irony is not lost on him, and he openly admits that apart from its political connotations, he appreciates the song's unmistakable and catchy bass line.

About My City Was Gone

At the heart of "My City Was Gone" lies Chrissie Hynde's powerful storytelling and her dedication to addressing important issues. The song serves as an autobiographical reflection on her return to her childhood home in Akron, Ohio. Through her lyrics, she vividly portrays the devastation caused by unrestrained urbanization and environmental degradation. The once beautiful countryside she remembers has been obliterated, leaving behind a desolate landscape that no longer resembles the place she once knew.

Hynde's deep-rooted affection for her hometown is apparent throughout the song. She sings of South Howard Street, a historic center that was leveled to make way for a soulless urban plaza, complete with towering skyscrapers and parking decks. By mentioning specific locations in and around Akron, she brings a sense of tangible reality to her storytelling, allowing the listener to connect with her personal experiences on a deeper level.

But "My City Was Gone" is not just an emotional lament about the loss of a beloved hometown. It is also infused with social and environmental consciousness. Hynde's lyrics reflect her growing concern for the state of the planet and the destructive impact of human actions. By showcasing the destruction of her childhood home, she shines a light on a larger issue – the irreversible damage caused by unchecked development and pollution. The song serves as a call to action, urging listeners to consider the consequences of their actions and take steps to preserve the environment.

One cannot discuss "My City Was Gone" without acknowledging the powerful musical elements that make it an enduring classic. The song's instrumentation exudes a sense of urgency, perfectly complementing the weight of the lyrics. From the opening bass line, which Rush Limbaugh so famously adopted, to the driving rhythm and guitar riffs, every element of the music contributes to the song's impact.

Chrissie Hynde's vocals add another layer of emotion to "My City Was Gone." Her voice carries both vulnerability and strength, effectively conveying the sense of loss and determination that pervades the song. With each word she sings, she captures the listener's attention and draws them deeper into the narrative of her devastated hometown.

"My City Was Gone" is more than just a song; it is a testament to the power of music as a means of expression and awareness. Through its lyrics and compelling melody, it forces us to confront the consequences of our actions and reflect on the importance of protecting our environment. The Pretenders, led by the talented Chrissie Hynde, have created a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences today. So, take a moment to listen to "My City Was Gone" and immerse yourself in the hauntingly beautiful tale of a lost hometown and a call to action.

• Release Date: October 1982
• Artist: Pretenders