About The Song
“L.A. International Airport” by Susan Raye, released in 1971, is a catchy and upbeat country-pop song that became a significant hit for Raye. The song’s playful melody and relatable lyrics helped it reach #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and solidified Raye’s place in country music during the early 1970s. The song’s themes revolve around the excitement and uncertainty of love and the feeling of waiting for someone at an airport, with a sense of anticipation and longing.
The lyrics of “L.A. International Airport” tell the story of a woman who is waiting at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for a loved one to return. The song captures the feelings of hope, excitement, and a touch of sadness that come with waiting for a reunion, with the repeated refrain “L.A. International Airport, where I’ll be waiting for you” reflecting the anticipation and emotional stakes of the situation. The song’s catchy and repetitive chorus makes it easy for listeners to sing along, reinforcing the feeling of longing and excitement.
Musically, “L.A. International Airport” blends country and pop influences, which was characteristic of many of the popular 1970s country songs. The arrangement features a lively guitar, piano, and rhythm section, giving it a bright, infectious sound. Susan Raye’s voice is warm and engaging, and her delivery perfectly matches the lighthearted yet emotional tone of the song. The melody and rhythm create a sense of movement and excitement, mirroring the anticipation and nervous energy of waiting for a loved one to arrive.
“L.A. International Airport” was a commercial success, and it became one of Susan Raye’s most well-known songs. The song’s universal themes of love, waiting, and hope made it a standout hit, and it resonated with listeners across different genres. It helped Raye establish herself as a significant country artist and contributed to the popularity of country-pop crossover songs during the early 1970s.
The song remains a memorable part of Susan Raye’s legacy and continues to be recognized for its cheerful and relatable depiction of love and longing, set against the backdrop of the bustling L.A. International Airport.
If you’d like to explore more about the song’s themes, its place in Susan Raye’s career, or its impact on 1970s country music, feel free to ask!