Which 1993 song by The Proclaimers became the Scottish duo’s signature international hit?

The Proclaimers’ 1993 song “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” became the Scottish duo’s signature international hit.

Craig and Charlie Reid wrote the song for The Proclaimers’ 1988 album Sunshine on Leith. Its central promise of walking 500 miles—and then walking 500 more—turns exaggerated devotion into a memorable singalong chorus.

The recording became widely known in North America after appearing in the 1993 film Benny & Joon, starring Johnny Depp and Mary Stuart Masterson. A re-recorded version featuring comedians Craig Ferguson and Peter Kay later topped the UK Singles Chart in 2007 for Comic Relief.

Although the song is often treated as a novelty anthem, it was originally released as a straightforward declaration of commitment. The title’s parenthetical “500 Miles” is part of the official title, not a separate song name.