Introduction
Dwight Yoakam’s rendition of “I Want You to Want Me” introduces a country flair to the classic rock song originally performed by Cheap Trick. The original track, released in 1977, gained significant popularity with its 1979 live version, becoming one of Cheap Trick’s most recognizable hits. Yoakam’s cover appears on his 2000 album “Tomorrow’s Sounds Today,” which showcases his commitment to blending traditional country sounds with contemporary influences.
“Tomorrow’s Sounds Today” is notable for its homage to the Bakersfield sound, a style that heavily influenced Yoakam’s musical direction. The album features collaborations with country legend Buck Owens, emphasizing Yoakam’s deep respect for classic country music. By incorporating “I Want You to Want Me,” Yoakam bridges the gap between rock and country, demonstrating the versatility and timelessness of the song.
Yoakam’s interpretation maintains the song’s catchy melody while introducing elements characteristic of his style, such as prominent steel guitar and a honky-tonk rhythm. This fusion highlights his ability to reinterpret songs across genres, making them accessible to a broader audience. Although his version did not achieve the same commercial success as the original, it showcases Yoakam’s innovative approach to music and his willingness to experiment with diverse sounds.
In the context of Yoakam’s discography, “I Want You to Want Me” reflects his continuous effort to honor traditional country roots while embracing modern influences. This balance has been a defining feature of his career, contributing to his reputation as a pioneering artist in the country music scene. His rendition of the song serves as a testament to the fluidity of musical genres and the enduring appeal of well-crafted songs, regardless of their original style.
Overall, Dwight Yoakam’s cover of “I Want You to Want Me” exemplifies his talent for reimagining classic tracks through a country lens, enriching the song’s legacy and showcasing the interconnectedness of musical genres.
Video
Lyrics
I want you to want me
I need you to need me
I’d love you to love me
I’m beggin’ you to beg me
I want you to want me
I need you to need me
I’d love you to love me
I’ll shine up the old brown shoes, put on a brand new shirt
I’ll get home early from work if you say that you love me
Didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you cryin’?
Oh, didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you cryin’?
Feelin’ all alone without a friend, you know you feel like dyin’
Oh, didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you cryin’?
I want you to want me
I need you to need me
I’d love you to love me
I’m beggin’ you to beg me
I’ll shine up the old brown shoes, put on a brand new shirt
I’ll get home early from work if you say that you love me
Didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you cryin’?
Oh, didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you cryin’?
Feelin’ all alone without a friend, you know you feel like dyin’
Oh, didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you cryin’?
I’ll shine up the old brown shoes, put on a brand new shirt
I’ll get home early from work if you say that you love me
Didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you cryin’?
Oh, didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you cryin’?
Feelin’ all alone without a friend, you know you feel like dyin’
Oh, didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you cryin’?
I want you to want me
I need you to need me
I’d love you to love me
I want you to want me