Dwight Yoakam – Fast As You

Introduction

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“Fast as You” is a notable single by American singer-songwriter and guitarist Dwight Yoakam, released on October 4, 1993, as part of his fifth studio album, This Time. The song showcases Yoakam’s distinctive blend of country, country rock, and rock and roll, reflecting his innovative approach to traditional country music.

Written by Yoakam himself, “Fast as You” achieved significant success on the charts. In the United States, it reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks, marking Yoakam’s third consecutive single to attain this position. In Canada, the song peaked at number 5, further cementing its popularity in North America. Additionally, it crossed over to the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 70, indicating its broader appeal beyond the country genre.

The accompanying music video, co-directed by Yoakam and Carolyn Beug, features a live concert performance, capturing the energy and charisma of Yoakam’s stage presence. This visual representation contributed to the song’s popularity, offering fans a glimpse into his dynamic live performances.

“Fast as You” has also inspired other artists, leading to notable cover versions. The country music duo Steel Magnolia included a live cover in their 2010 extended play, Steel Magnolia — EP. Similarly, the trio Runaway June recorded a rendition for their self-titled 2018 EP and later included it on their debut album, Blue Roses, showcasing the song’s enduring influence in the country music scene.

As one of Dwight Yoakam’s most successful singles, “Fast as You” exemplifies his ability to blend traditional country sounds with rock influences, contributing to the evolution of the genre in the early 1990s. Its chart success and continued relevance underscore its significance in Yoakam’s discography and its impact on country music.

Video

Lyrics
Maybe someday I’ll be strong
Maybe it won’t be long
I’ll be the one who’s tough
You’ll be the one who’s got it rough
It won’t be long and
Maybe I’ll be real strong
Maybe I’ll do things right
Maybe I’ll start tonight
You’ll learn to cry like me
Baby let’s just wait and see
Maybe I’ll start tonight
And do things right
You’ll control me
Oh so boldly
Rule me till I’m free
Till the pain that shakes me
Finally makes me
Get up off of my knees
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Maybe I’ll be fast as you
Maybe I’ll break hearts too
But I think that you’ll slow down
When your turn to hurt comes around
Maybe I’ll break hearts
And be as fast as you
Ahh
You’ll control me
Oh so boldly
Rule me till I’m free
Till the pain that shakes me
Finally makes me
Get up off of my knees
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Maybe I’ll be fast as you
Maybe I’ll break hearts too
But I think that you’ll slow down
When your turn to hurt comes around
Maybe I’ll break hearts
And be as fast as you
Maybe I’ll break hearts
And be as fast as you
Ahh suckie
Maybe someday I’ll be strong
Maybe it won’t be long
I’ll be the one that’s tough
You’ll be the one who’s got it rough
You’re gonna learn to cry like me
Baby let’s just wait and see
Yeah well maybe I’ll be fast as you
Maybe I’ll break hearts too