About the song
Dwight Yoakam’s “Things Change”: A Reflection on Time and Transformation
Dwight Yoakam, a cornerstone of the modern honky-tonk revival, has long been celebrated for his distinctive baritone and his ability to blend traditional country sounds with rockabilly influences. His 1993 hit, “Things Change”, is a prime example of his talent for crafting songs that are both timeless and relevant.
The song’s title, “Things Change”, is a simple yet profound statement about the inevitability of life’s transitions. Yoakam’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the passage of time and the ways in which people and places evolve. He sings about growing older, losing loved ones, and the bittersweet nature of change.
Musically, “Things Change” is a classic country ballad with a rockabilly edge. The driving rhythm and twangy guitar riffs give the song a sense of urgency, while the heartfelt lyrics provide a counterbalance. The arrangement is sparse, allowing Yoakam’s vocals and the lyrics to take center stage.
Yoakam’s performance is nothing short of iconic. His gravelly voice conveys a sense of world-weariness and acceptance, making the listener feel as though they are sharing a personal confession. The way he delivers the lyrics, with a mix of resignation and hope, creates a connection with the audience that is both intimate and universal.
“Things Change” has endured as a classic for several reasons. First, the song’s universal themes of aging, loss, and the passage of time resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds. Second, the music is both catchy and thought-provoking, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate well-crafted songwriting. And finally, Yoakam’s performance is simply unforgettable, making him one of the most distinctive voices in country music.
Beyond its musical merits, “Things Change” also holds historical significance. It helped to solidify Yoakam’s reputation as a singer-songwriter who could blend traditional country sounds with a modern sensibility. The song’s success paved the way for other country artists to explore more introspective and emotionally resonant themes.
If you’re looking for a song that will make you reflect on your own life and the passage of time, then look no further than “Things Change”. It’s a timeless piece of music that continues to inspire and move listeners.
Video
Lyrics
She said, baby things change
I said, but I feel the same
She said, well let me explain
Baby, how things can change
I said, but that doesn’t show
How a love that could grow
Would become so strange
She said, well baby, things change
She said, Na, na, na, na, na
Now, now, now baby, don’t try
To figure this out
Or ask questions ’bout why
Forever’s a promise
No love can survive
And trust with hearts
Just don’t apply
She said,
‘Cause baby, things change
Na, na, na, na, na, now, now
So baby I quit tryin’
To figure things out
About all your hearts lyin’
Forever’s a promise
We couldn’t survive
Hey, I may be slow
But I ain’t blind
She said, I still love you so
I said, I don’t care to know
She said, you once cried my name
I said, well baby, things change
And let’s don’t go placing no blame
‘Cause you know things can change
Na, na, na, na, na, na
Na, na, na, na, na, na
She said, you once cried my name
I said, well, baby, things change
Na, na, na, na, na, na
Na, na, na, na, na, na
Let’s don’t go placing no blame, yeah
‘Cause you know things can change
Na, na, na, na, na, na
Na, na, na, na, na, na