Introduction
“Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” is a lively country song performed by Dwight Yoakam, released in September 1990 as the lead single from his fourth studio album, If There Was a Way. The track showcases Yoakam’s signature blend of traditional honky-tonk and contemporary country sounds, contributing to his reputation as a pivotal figure in the neotraditionalist movement.
Songwriting and Composition
The song was co-written by Greek-born American songwriter Kostas Lazarides and Wayland Patton. Kostas, known mononymously as Kostas, had previously collaborated with Yoakam on hits like “Nothing’s Changed Here” and “Send a Message to My Heart.” His partnership with Yoakam played a significant role in shaping the neotraditionalist country sound of the early 1990s.
Chart Performance
Upon its release, “Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” achieved notable success. It peaked at number 11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and reached number 5 in Canada, further establishing Yoakam’s international appeal. Wikipedia
Album and Legacy
The song served as the lead-off single for the album If There Was a Way, which produced five Top 40 singles between 1990 and 1992. These included “You’re the One,” “Nothing’s Changed Here,” “It Only Hurts When I Cry,” “The Heart That You Own,” and the Patty Loveless duet “Send a Message to My Heart.” All except “Send a Message to My Heart” were Top 20 country hits. The album’s success reinforced Yoakam’s status as a leading artist in the country music industry during this period.
For a visual experience of the song, you can watch Dwight Yoakam’s performance below:
Video
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