Dwight Yoakam – “Waiting”

“Waiting” is a song by American country music artist Dwight Yoakam, released as a single in 1989. It appeared on his critically acclaimed album Just Lookin’ for a Hit, which marked a turning point in his career. Written by Yoakam himself, the song exemplifies his blend of traditional country music with a modern, honky-tonk twist that helped define his unique sound during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

“Waiting” is a reflection of the heartache and yearning that often accompanies lost love, a theme that resonates deeply in country music. The lyrics describe a person who is waiting for their love to return, dealing with the emotional weight of separation and unrequited feelings. Yoakam’s delivery of the song is filled with both longing and vulnerability, which complements the song’s melancholy tone. The combination of his emotive voice and the song’s classic country instrumentation creates a poignant atmosphere that captivated country music fans.

Musically, “Waiting” features Yoakam’s signature blend of twangy guitar riffs, steady drumbeats, and pedal steel guitar, which reinforces the song’s roots in traditional country while appealing to a contemporary audience. The track is an example of how Yoakam was able to merge the sounds of the past with his own fresh take, which led to his popularity in the 1980s and 1990s country scene. His ability to bridge the gap between traditional honky-tonk and the emerging alternative country movement was one of the reasons he became such a respected figure in country music during this period.

Though “Waiting” was not a major commercial hit, it remains a beloved track in Yoakam’s catalog, capturing the essence of his style and his ability to convey deep emotions with both honesty and musical sophistication. The song is a testament to Yoakam’s skill as both a songwriter and performer, helping solidify his place in country music history.