#61 - Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals - Alone
Explore “Alone,” a deeply intimate track by Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals, navigating the quiet ache of solitude through stripped‑down melody.
Story Behind “Alone” by Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals
“Alone” opens the 1999 album Burn to Shine, marking a moment of introspection and vulnerability amidst the record’s diverse stylistic palette. Ben Harper’s delicate acoustic guitar and heartfelt vocals lay bare the emotional landscape of the song, capturing feelings of detachment and yearning that resonate universally.
Although the track was never released as a single, its raw sincerity and gentle melody quickly made it a fan favorite. Harper revisited “Alone” during live performances and included it on the 2009 Alone – The Live EP, showcasing his enduring connection to the song.
Technical Details
Notes About “Alone” by Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals
Release Date: September 21, 1999 (Burn to Shine)
Also featured on: Alone – The Live EP (2009)
Duration: Studio: 3:58; Live: 4:38
Genre: Acoustic, Soul‑Folk
Writer: Ben Harper
Producer: Jean‑Pierre Plunier
Album Details
Album: Burn to Shine
Release Date: September 21, 1999
Label: Virgin Records America
Producer: Jean‑Pierre Plunier
Band Members / Personnel
Ben Harper – Vocals, Acoustic Guitar
Juan Nelson – Bass
Dean Butterworth – Drums (Burn to Shine) / Oliver Charles – Drums (The Innocent Criminals)
Additional ensemble contributions include string and horn arrangements, featuring artists like Suzie Katayama.
Album Production Notes
Burn to Shine captures Harper’s exploration of blues, rock, soul, and folk, with “Alone” providing a poignant and spacious moment amid the album’s more rhythmically driven tracks. Its inclusion on a later live EP underscores Harper’s lasting bond with the song.
Interesting Facts
“Alone” is consistently one of the most loved tracks by listeners, frequently appearing in live setlists and streaming stats.
Live from Mars (2001) includes a performance of “Alone” on its acoustic disc, highlighting Harper’s talent for re-envisioning the song in live settings.
The emotional core of “Alone” aligns with Ben Harper’s broader artistic approach—blending personal storytelling with soulful, genre-spanning instrumentation.