Patty Loveless – “That’s Exactly What I Mean”

“That’s Exactly What I Mean” is a song by American country music artist Patty Loveless, released in 1995 as the third single from her album When Fallen Angels Fly. The song, written by Kostas and Jim Rushing, is a perfect example of Loveless’s ability to capture the complexities of relationships through her emotive vocal style. With its straightforward yet heartfelt lyrics, the song quickly became a fan favorite and further solidified Loveless’s reputation as one of country music’s most authentic and relatable voices.

The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman trying to express her feelings about love and relationships. She is frustrated by her partner’s inability to understand her, and the song’s central message revolves around the idea of clear communication in love. The narrator’s plea of “That’s exactly what I mean” highlights the frustration that arises when emotions are misunderstood, and it reflects a universal experience many listeners could relate to.

“That’s Exactly What I Mean” is one of the more upbeat and catchy tracks in Loveless’s catalog, offering a blend of traditional country instrumentation with a touch of contemporary production. The song’s accessibility, combined with Loveless’s soulful performance, made it stand out as a hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This success helped continue the momentum of When Fallen Angels Fly, which was a significant album in Patty Loveless’s career.

The track’s straightforward approach to relationship struggles, paired with Loveless’s impeccable delivery, made it a standout in the mid-1990s country music scene. “That’s Exactly What I Mean” remains a beloved song, showcasing Loveless’s unique ability to convey both the joys and challenges of love with honesty and grace.