Introduction:
“Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” is a country song by Dwight Yoakam, released on September 26, 1990, as the lead single from his album If There Was a Way. Written by Kostas and Wayland Patton, the song reached number 11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number 5 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart.
The song’s narrative centers on a protagonist seeking solace in music to forget a lost lover, encapsulated in the plea to “turn it on, turn it up, turn me loose.” This theme of using music as an emotional escape resonated with audiences, contributing to its chart success.
The accompanying music video, directed by Steve Vaughan, further popularized the song, showcasing Yoakam’s charismatic performance style.
“Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” exemplifies Yoakam’s blend of traditional country with rock influences, a hallmark of his musical style that has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
The song’s success reinforced Yoakam’s status as a leading figure in country music during the early 1990s, showcasing his ability to connect with listeners through relatable storytelling and emotive performances.