Meaning of "Road Songs for Lovers" by Chris Rea

"Road Songs for Lovers" is a wistful and evocative song that transports the listener to a time of summer love and passionate adventures. The imagery of sunburned feet on the dashboard, suntan legs, and the mingling scents of suntan oil and gasoline set the scene of a road trip or a carefree summer vacation. These vivid descriptions create a sense of relaxation and freedom, as if the characters in the song are escaping from their daily lives and connecting on a deeper level.

The mention of salty skin tasting like the open sea suggests a strong connection to nature and a desire for the vastness and unpredictability of the ocean. This longing for more is echoed in the phrase "Left us forever wanting more," indicating that the experiences shared between the lovers were not enough to satisfy their desires. Despite this yearning, the couple is described as being trapped in the groove of each other, symbolizing a deep emotional connection and a sense of being lost in the love they share.

The silhouette of a beat-up truck and the mention of deep blue shadows left behind hint at the idea of leaving their past behind and moving towards a brighter future together. Love is portrayed as something that came easily to them, a feeling that was natural and unfaltering. The phrase "Locked in a distant time" suggests that these memories are now cherished and distant, perhaps even unreachable.

The repetition of the phrase "Road songs for lovers" serves as both a reminder of the initial dream that was fulfilled and a call to revisit those moments and feelings. The suggestion to close one's eyes and remember indicates a longing to relive those experiences and recapture the magic they once had. The ending of the song, with the repeated call to "Let's go back again," emphasizes the desire to return to that state of love and happiness, to retrace the steps of their journey together.

In essence, "Road Songs for Lovers" is a nostalgic anthem that celebrates the power of love, the freedom of the open road, and the intoxicating memories that can be created on such journeys.