About the song
Background
- Released in 1989, “Why’d You Come In Here Lookin’ Like That” was the first single from Dolly Parton’s album “White Limozeen.”
- Written by Bob Carlisle and Randy Thomas, it became Parton’s 22nd number one hit on the country music charts.
- Parton even performed the song on Saturday Night Live when she hosted the show in 1989.
Themes
The song explores a classic country music theme of heartbreak and a cheating partner. The narrator, a woman, is struck by the sight of her ex-boyfriend looking handsome and charming while he’s clearly out on the prowl.
- Jealousy and Possessiveness: The lyrics highlight the narrator’s jealousy of the other women her ex is with.
- Internal Conflict: Despite his flaws, the narrator is still drawn to her ex and can’t help but be affected by his presence.
- Power Dynamics: The song portrays a dynamic where the woman is more emotionally invested and vulnerable, while the man is carefree and manipulative.
- Female Strength: Despite the heartache, there’s a touch of sass and resilience in the narrator’s voice.
The song’s catchy melody and playful lyrics, combined with Parton’s signature vocals, make it a relatable and entertaining take on a timeless theme.
Video
Lyrics
Why’d you come in here lookin’ like thatIn your cowboy boots and your painted on jeansAll decked out like a cowgirl’s dreamWhy’d you come in here looking like thatHere comes my babyDraggin’ my heart behindHe’s drivin’ me crazyWho says love is blindHe’s got a wanderin’ eye and a travelin’ mindBig ideas and a little behindOut with a different woman every nightBut I remember when he was mine
Why’d you come in here lookin’ like thatIn your high heel boots and your painted on jeansAll decked out like a cowgirl’s dreamWaltzing right in here lookin’ like thatWhy’d you come in here lookin’ like thatWhen you could stop traffic in a gunny sackWhy you’re almost givin’ me a heart attackWhen you waltz right in here lookin’ like that
I just can’t stand itTo see him on the townHe’s out slow dancingWith every girl aroundI’m a softhearted woman he’s a hardheaded manAnd he’s gonna make me feel just as bad as he canHe’s got himself a mean streak a half a mile wideNow he’s dancing on this heart of mine
Ooh, Why’d you come in here lookin’ like thatIn your high heel boots and your painted on jeansAll decked out like a cowgirl’s dreamWhy’d you come in here lookin’ like that
Why’d you come in here lookin’ like thatIn your cowboy boots and your painted on jeansAll decked out like a cowgirl’s dreamWhy’d you come in here lookin’ like that
Why’d you come in here lookin’ like thatWhen you could stop traffic in a gunny sackWhy you’re almost givin’ me a heart attackWhen you waltz right in here lookin’ like thatWhy’d you come in here lookin’ like thatWhy’d you come in here lookin’ like that