About the song
Dwight Yoakam’s “Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose”: A Honky-Tonk Heartbreak Anthem
Dwight Yoakam, a cornerstone of the modern honky-tonk revival, has long been admired for his ability to blend traditional country sounds with rockabilly and rock ‘n’ roll influences. His song “Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” is a prime example of this unique blend, capturing the raw emotion of heartbreak and the healing power of music.
Released in 1990 as the lead single from his album If There Was a Way, this track quickly became a fan favorite and a staple on country radio stations. The song’s title, “Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose”, is a straightforward plea for distraction from heartache. It’s a call to drown out the pain of a lost love with the loud and lively sounds of a honky-tonk bar.
Yoakam’s deep, resonant voice perfectly conveys the raw emotion of heartbreak. His lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man seeking solace in music and the company of strangers. The song’s driving rhythm and energetic guitar riffs create a sense of urgency and restlessness, mirroring the narrator’s emotional state.
Musically, “Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” is a classic honky-tonk number. The pedal steel guitar, fiddle, and driving rhythm section create a sound that is both familiar and exciting. Yoakam’s band, The Kentucky Headhunters, provides a solid foundation for his vocals, delivering a tight and energetic performance.
“Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” has endured as a classic for several reasons. First, the song’s universal theme of heartbreak resonates with people of all ages. Second, the music is both catchy and exciting, making it a perfect choice for dancing or simply enjoying a good tune. And finally, Yoakam’s performance is simply unforgettable, making it one of the most iconic tracks of his career.
Beyond its musical merits, “Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” also holds historical significance. It helped to solidify Yoakam’s reputation as a leading figure in the modern honky-tonk revival. The song’s success showcased his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level while staying true to his roots.
If you’re looking for a song that captures the raw energy and emotional depth of country music, then look no further than “Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose”. It’s a timeless piece of music that continues to be enjoyed by fans of both country and rock music.
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Lyrics
Well, I’m back again for another nightOf trying to break free from this sadness that I can’t lay to restThis old honky-tonk sure does feel like homeAnd the music with the laughter seem to soothe my lonelinessTurn it on, turn it up, turn me looseFrom her memory that’s driving me lonely, crazy and blueIt helps me forget her, so the louder the betterHey mister, turn it on, turn it up, turn me looseIf a tear should fall if I should whisper her nameTo some stranger I’m holdin’ while we’re dancin’ to an old Buck Owens songI know she won’t mind, she won’t even knowShe’ll be dancing with a memory crying teardrops of her ownTurn it on, turn it up, turn me looseFrom her memory that’s driving me lonely, crazy and blueIt helps me forget her, so the louder the betterHey mister, turn it on, turn it up, turn me looseTurn it on, turn it up, turn me looseFrom her memory that’s driving me lonely, crazy and blueIt helps me forget her, so the louder the betterHey mister, turn it on, turn it up, turn me looseYeah, mister turn it on, turn it up, turn me loose