2000 Miles

"2000 Miles" is a song by British-American rock band The Pretenders. Written by lead singer Chrissie Hynde and produced by Chris Thomas, it was released on 18 November 1983 as the second single from their third studio album, "Learning to Crawl" (1984). It was most popular in the UK, where it peaked at No. 15 on the UK Singles Chart in December 1983. In the US, it was released as the B-side of both the 7-inch single and 12-inch single remix of the band's hit "Middle of the Road".
Considered a Christmas song, it has been released on various Christmas compilation albums.
Background.
While many people believe the song's title and lyrics refer to two long-distance lovers who miss each other over the holidays, it was actually written for James Honeyman-Scott, the group's original guitarist, who died the year before the song was released. "Robbie McIntosh plays beautifully on '2000 Miles'," Hynde recalled. "Anything to avoid listening to my voice and my stupid words."
The song frequently reappears in the UK Charts around Christmas time staying in the charts for a few weeks over the Christmas period.
Critical reception.
Dave Marsh, in his 1989 book "The Heart of Rock & Soul: The 1001 Greatest Singles Ever Made", ranked "2000 Miles"' as the 630th best rock or soul single to that date. It is one of four songs by The Pretenders listed in the book.
Music video.
The official video features Hynde dressed as a member of the Salvation Army in a snowy location.
Covers.
An acoustic version of the track was covered by british band Coldplay and released as a promotional single, with all artist recording royalties being donated to two causes supported by the group.