About the song
“Leaving on a Jet Plane,” performed by John Denver and Cass Elliot, is a song that encapsulates the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye. Written by John Denver himself, the song was originally titled “Babe, I Hate to Go” but was later renamed to the more familiar “Leaving on a Jet Plane.” This song was part of Denver’s album “Rhymes & Reasons,” released in 1969, and has since become one of his most iconic hits.
John Denver, born Henry John Deutschendorf Jr., was known for his heartfelt lyrics and melodic folk music, which captured the spirit of the 1960s and 1970s. His partnership with Cass Elliot, a member of the famous group The Mamas & the Papas, added a rich, soulful layer to the song’s performance. Cass Elliot, often known as “Mama Cass,” brought her powerful, emotive voice to the duet, making this version of “Leaving on a Jet Plane” particularly memorable.
The song’s narrative revolves around the themes of love, departure, and the hope of return. Its simple yet poignant lyrics—”I’m leaving on a jet plane / Don’t know when I’ll be back again / Oh, babe, I hate to go”—resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced the pain of parting from loved ones.
“Leaving on a Jet Plane” achieved significant commercial success. When it was released as a single by Peter, Paul, and Mary in 1969, it became their biggest (and final) hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. John Denver’s own rendition, along with Cass Elliot’s collaboration, has also been cherished by fans and continues to receive airplay and recognition.
This timeless classic not only showcases John Denver’s exceptional songwriting abilities but also highlights the beautiful harmonies that can emerge from collaborative efforts. For many, “Leaving on a Jet Plane” remains a poignant reminder of the emotions tied to farewells and the enduring hope for reunion.
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Lyrics
All my bags are packed
I’m ready to go
I’m standin’ here outside your door
I hate to wake you up to say goodbye
But the dawn is breakin’
It’s early morn
The taxi’s waitin’
He’s blowin’ his horn
Already I’m so lonesome
I could die
So kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go
There’s so many times I’ve let you down
So many times I’ve played around
I tell you now, they don’t mean a thing
Every place I go, I’ll think of you
Every song I sing, I’ll sing for you
When I come back, I’ll bring your wedding ring
So kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go
Now the time has come to leave you
One more time
Let me kiss you
Then close your eyes
And I’ll be on my way
Dream about the days to come
When I won’t have to leave alone
About the times, I won’t have to say
Kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go
But, I’m leavin’ on a jet plane
Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go