What makes Runaways by The Killers notable?

'Runaways' achieved commercial success, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving positive reviews from critics who praised its energetic sound and lyrical themes. The song's cinematic quality and compelling narrative contributed to its impact, solidifying The Killers' relevance in the alternative rock scene during the early 2010s. Released as the lead single from their fourth studio album, 'Battle Born', 'Runaways' marked a return for The Killers after a hiatus following their 2010 album. This period saw the band aiming to recapture their early sound while experimenting with new sonic elements, reflecting both nostalgia and growth in their musical journey.

How many songs are on Runaways?

Runaways has 1 track, running approximately 4 minutes.

Runaways

The Killers · 2012

4 min · 1 track · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of anthemic choruses and nostalgic storytelling that captures the essence of youthful escapism.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Runaways — This track serves as the album's thematic centerpiece, combining catchy melodies with lyrics that evoke a sense of freedom and adventure, encapsulating the band's signature style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

56 /100

Foothills

Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The song combines energetic instrumentation with nostalgic lyrics, making it a solid return for The Killers.

What we noticed

The song features a driving beat with layered guitars that build intensity throughout the verses, leading into a soaring chorus.
Lyrically, it employs vivid imagery and storytelling that evokes themes of youth and freedom, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.
The arrangement includes dynamic shifts, with quieter moments in the verses contrasting against the anthemic choruses.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Achieved commercial success and marked a significant return after a hiatus.
Themes: neon-lit highways· post-2000s nostalgia
Career context: Released as the lead single from their fourth studio album, 'Battle Born', 'Runaways' marked a return for The Killers after a hiatus following their 2010 album. This period saw the band aiming to recapture their early sound while experimenting with new sonic elements, reflecting both nostalgia and growth in their musical journey.
Stylistic neighbors: Franz Ferdinand· The Strokes· Arctic Monkeys