Right Here Waiting Lyrics - Richard Marx

About “Right Here Waiting”

Right Here Waiting by Richard Marx is a soft rock ballad from his 1989 album Repeat Offender. The song became an international hit, reaching number one on several charts worldwide. Marx wrote it during a period of separation from his wife, capturing the emotional strain of long-distance love. The heartfelt lyrics convey themes of devotion, longing, and resilience, making it one of his most enduring songs.

• Album: Repeat Offender


• Release Date: June 29, 1989


• Producers: Richard Marx & David Cole


• Writer: Richard Marx


• Genres: Pop Rock, Soft Rock, Ballad

Song Meanings Explained.

Right Here Waiting is centered around the emotional complexities of a long-distance relationship. The lyrics reflect the pain of separation and the unwavering commitment to wait for a loved one, no matter the distance or time apart.

[Verse 1]

"Oceans apart, day after day / And I slowly go insane" – Marx begins by describing the overwhelming emotional toll of being separated from his partner. The physical distance and time apart are causing mental anguish.

"I hear your voice on the line / But it doesn't stop the pain" – Even though they can communicate via phone, it doesn’t soothe the deeper pain of not being together in person. This highlights the emotional struggle of long-distance relationships.

[Pre-Chorus 1]

"If I see you next to never / Then how can we say forever?" – Marx questions the feasibility of lasting love when physical presence is rare. It raises the difficulty of maintaining a strong bond without regular closeness.

[Chorus]

"Wherever you go, whatever you do / I will be right here waiting for you" – The chorus reassures the loved one that no matter where they are or what they do, the narrator will remain devoted and patiently waiting for their return.

"Whatever it takes or how my heart breaks / I will be right here waiting for you" – Despite the heartache, the narrator is willing to endure the pain, showing his steadfast commitment.

[Verse 2]

"I took for granted, all the times / That I thought would last somehow" – Reflecting on the past, Marx admits that he didn't fully appreciate the moments they had together, assuming they would always have time.

"I hear the laughter, I taste the tears / But I can't get near you now" – The memories of both joy and sadness linger, yet the painful reality remains that they are still apart, unable to experience those emotions together.

[Pre-Chorus 2]

"Oh, can't you see it, baby / You've got me going crazy" – The separation has driven the narrator to a point of emotional distress, emphasizing how deeply he is affected by the distance.

[Bridge]

"I wonder how we can survive this romance / But in the end if I'm with you / I'll take the chance" – The narrator questions whether their relationship can endure the challenges, but ultimately resolves that being together is worth the risk and the emotional pain.

Song Theme.

The main theme of Right Here Waiting is devotion in the face of separation. The song reflects the emotional difficulty of maintaining a relationship when two people are physically distant, yet it also conveys hope and a steadfast commitment to enduring the struggles. The lyrics portray the narrator’s willingness to wait, no matter how hard it gets, because the relationship is worth the pain.

Technical Analysis.

Musically, Right Here Waiting is structured as a classic ballad, with its gentle melody driven by piano and acoustic guitar. The song’s simplicity allows the emotional depth of the lyrics to shine. Richard Marx’s vocal delivery is soft yet passionate, conveying the vulnerability and longing expressed in the words. The repetitive nature of the chorus reinforces the narrator's unwavering resolve, while the use of minimalistic instrumentation emphasizes the intimacy of the message.