Introduction:
Dwight Yoakam’s “Fast as You” is a song that simmers with a potent blend of hurt, defiance, and a touch of dark humor. Released in 1993 as the third single from his album “This Time,” it’s a track that solidified Yoakam’s place as a neo-traditionalist country music icon, while also showcasing his ability to transcend genre boundaries.
The song, penned solely by Yoakam, tells a story of a relationship gone sour. The lyrics speak of a love affair where one partner has been hurt, and is now contemplating retaliation. The singer acknowledges the pain inflicted upon them, but also hints at a desire to inflict similar pain on the other. “Maybe I’ll be fast as you,” Yoakam sings, “Maybe I’ll break hearts too.” It’s a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has felt the sting of betrayal or heartbreak.
Musically, “Fast as You” is a blend of traditional country instrumentation with a rock and roll edge. The driving beat and Yoakam’s distinctive vocals give the song a sense of urgency, while the steel guitar and fiddle provide a nod to his country roots. This fusion of styles is a hallmark of Yoakam’s music, and it’s one of the reasons why “Fast as You” has remained a fan favorite over the years.
Despite its somewhat dark themes, “Fast as You” is not without a sense of irony. There’s a playful undertone to the lyrics, a sense that the singer is not taking themselves too seriously. This is evident in lines like, “You’ll control me, oh, so boldly, rule me ’til I’m free.” It’s a clever twist on the traditional love song, and it’s one of the things that makes “Fast as You” such a compelling listen.
Commercially, the song was a success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. It also crossed over to the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 70. While it didn’t reach the top of the charts, “Fast as You” has become one of Yoakam’s signature songs, and it remains a staple of his live performances.
In the years since its release, “Fast as You” has been covered by several artists, including the country duo Steel Magnolia and the all-female trio Runaway June. These covers have helped to introduce the song to new audiences, and they have also demonstrated the enduring appeal of Yoakam’s music.
“Fast as You” is a song that speaks to the complexities of love and relationships. It’s a song about hurt, revenge, and the desire to move on. But it’s also a song about resilience, and the ability to find humor in even the darkest of situations. It’s a song that stays with you long after the final note has faded away.