Looking Ahead cover

Looking Ahead

Billy Joe Royal · 1987

40 min · 12 tracks · country music

A vibrant blend of country melodies and reflective lyrics that captures the spirit of late 80s Americana.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Burned Like A Rocket — This track serves as the album's energetic opener, showcasing Royal's vocal prowess and setting an upbeat tone that encapsulates the album's overall vibe.
  • →
    Old Bridges Burn Slow — This song stands out with its poignant lyrics about lost love and reflection, demonstrating Royal's knack for storytelling through music.
  • →
    I Miss You Already — A heartfelt ballad that highlights Royal's emotional depth, this track captures the feeling of longing and regret, making it resonate strongly with listeners.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • reflective melodies for introspection
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • heartfelt themes of life's complexities
  • easy listening during commutes
  • uplifting tunes for casual gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy party tracks
  • prefer longer, cohesive albums

Where this album fits

Career context
Looking Ahead was Billy Joe Royal's sixth studio album, released in a period when he was transitioning from pop-oriented songs to a more traditional country sound. This album followed his 1984 project, which marked his return to music after a lengthy hiatus and showcased his adaptation to the evolving country landscape.
Stylistic neighbors
Travis Tritt· Alan Jackson· Vince Gill

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Burned Like A Rocket 3:40
  • 2 Run Around Town 3:15
  • 3 Old Bridges Burn Slow 3:27
  • 4 Good Thing 2:37
  • 5 The HardTimes 3:12
  • 6 I'm Not A Rock (I'm A Rolling Stone) 3:05
  • 7 Boardwalk Angel 3:35
  • 8 Sad Cliches 3:15
  • 9 You'd Better Go 4:05
  • 10 I Miss You Already 3:14
  • 11 We've Both Got A Lot To Learn 3:07
  • 12 Another Endless Night 3:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata