Introduction:
Dwight Yoakam’s “Little Ways” stands as a testament to his distinctive approach to country music, a style that defied the prevailing trends of the late 1980s. Released in June 1987 as the second single from his album “Hillbilly Deluxe,” the song quickly resonated with audiences, climbing the charts and solidifying Yoakam’s reputation as a true country music innovator.
Yoakam’s musical journey was marked by a deep reverence for the genre’s traditional roots, particularly the honky-tonk and Bakersfield sound popularized by artists like Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. This influence is palpable in “Little Ways,” with its driving rhythm and classic country instrumentation. However, Yoakam’s artistry transcended mere imitation. He infused his music with a contemporary energy, creating a sound that was both familiar and refreshingly unique.
“Hillbilly Deluxe,” the album from which “Little Ways” originated, was a bold statement of Yoakam’s artistic vision. At a time when Nashville was embracing a more polished, pop-infused country sound, Yoakam unapologetically embraced his “hillbilly” roots. This defiance, coupled with his undeniable talent, earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following.
“Little Ways” itself is a prime example of Yoakam’s songwriting prowess. The song’s narrative, combined with its catchy melody, propelled it to significant chart success, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and achieving number 1 on the Canadian RPM country singles chart. This success underscored the song’s widespread appeal and its enduring place in Yoakam’s repertoire.
Furthermore, it is important to note the production of this song, and much of Dwight Yoakams work, was done by Pete Anderson. The pairing of those two artists, created a very unique and powerful sound, that helped propel Dwight Yoakam into the country music limelight.