Introduction
Released as a single in 1994, “Try Not to Look So Pretty” by Dwight Yoakam is a memorable country song from his acclaimed 1993 album, This Time. Co-written by Dwight Yoakam and Kostas, the song captures the unmistakable blend of traditional country feeling and modern musical polish that helped make Yoakam one of the most distinctive voices in country music during the 1990s.
By the early 1990s, Dwight Yoakam had already earned a devoted following with his Bakersfield-inspired sound, sharp songwriting, and unmistakable vocal style. While many artists were moving toward a smoother, more commercial country sound, Yoakam remained faithful to the twang of electric guitars, the steady rhythm of traditional country, and the emotional honesty that has always defined the genre. “Try Not to Look So Pretty” demonstrates that distinctive approach, combining a lively musical arrangement with the complicated feelings of someone trying to keep their emotions under control.
What makes this song so appealing is its balance between playfulness and vulnerability. Beneath its catchy melody lies a familiar human experience: trying to appear composed when another person’s presence makes that far more difficult than expected. Yoakam delivers the song with his characteristic blend of confidence, subtle humor, and emotional tension. Rather than turning the story into an overly dramatic confession, he lets the melody and vocal phrasing communicate the feelings that words alone cannot fully express.
The track also reflects the musical strengths of This Time, an album that featured several of Yoakam’s best-known recordings, including “Ain’t That Lonely Yet,” “A Thousand Miles from Nowhere,” and “Fast as You.” Released in March 1993, the album demonstrated his ability to honor country music’s roots while embracing a fuller, more contemporary production. “Try Not to Look So Pretty” later became a single in February 1994, reaching No. 14 on the U.S. country chart and No. 4 in Canada.Stream Albums
For longtime country music listeners, “Try Not to Look So Pretty” brings back the sound of an era when memorable melodies, distinctive voices, and strong songwriting were at the heart of country radio. It reminds us why Dwight Yoakam remains such a respected artist: he understands that a good country song does not need an elaborate story to feel real. Sometimes, a little wit, a touch of longing, and an honest performance are enough.
More than three decades after its original album release, “Try Not to Look So Pretty” remains a worthwhile listen for anyone who appreciates the enduring charm of classic country music.