Introduction
“This Time” is a song by Dwight Yoakam, released in 1993 as the title track and lead single from his album This Time. Written by Yoakam himself, the song showcases his trademark blend of honky-tonk, rockabilly, and traditional country sounds, which helped him carve out a unique space in the country music landscape. “This Time” marked a pivotal moment in Yoakam’s career, as it resonated with both critics and fans, and reinforced his position as one of the leading artists in the genre during the 1990s.
The song’s lyrics deal with themes of regret and second chances in relationships. The narrator expresses a renewed determination to make things right in his relationship, acknowledging his past mistakes but vowing to not let them repeat. The repetition of “this time” in the chorus serves as a hopeful, yet solemn reminder of the opportunity to correct the wrongs of the past. It taps into the universal emotion of wanting redemption and the fear of repeating previous failures, which resonated with many listeners.
Musically, “This Time” features a straightforward, yet compelling country arrangement with Yoakam’s distinctive twangy guitars and steady rhythm. The song has a slight rock influence that gives it an upbeat, driving energy, and the catchy melody complements the lyrical theme of perseverance and learning from mistakes. Yoakam’s voice, full of passion and sincerity, brings the song’s themes of introspection and determination to life, with his emotive delivery adding depth to the track.
“This Time” was a commercial success, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and becoming one of Yoakam’s most beloved tracks. The song helped reinforce the success of the This Time album, which was praised for its strong, cohesive sound and its honest exploration of love, regret, and hope. “This Time” remains a standout in Dwight Yoakam’s catalog, and its powerful message continues to resonate with listeners.
Video
Views: 341