Introduction:
“Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” stands as a notable entry in Dwight Yoakam’s extensive catalog, capturing a moment of his distinct blend of traditional country with a contemporary edge. Released in September 1990, this single served as the lead-off track from his album “If There Was a Way.”
The song’s creation is credited to songwriters Kostas and Wayland Patton, and its production was helmed by Pete Anderson, a frequent collaborator with Yoakam. This collaboration contributed to the song’s signature sound, which resonated with country music audiences of the time.
“Turn It On, Turn It Up, Turn Me Loose” portrays a narrative of emotional turmoil, with the protagonist seeking solace in the immersive power of music. The lyrics express a desire to drown out the lingering memories of a lost love, a theme that has long been a staple in country music.
Chart performance indicates the song’s popularity, reaching number 11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and number 5 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart. This success solidified its place within Yoakam’s body of work and contributed to the overall success of the “If There Was a Way” album.
The song’s release was accompanied by a music video directed by Steve Vaughan, further amplifying its reach. As a single, it was backed with the b-side track “Since I Started Drinkin’ Again.” The song, and the album it came from, are very much a product of the early 1990’s country music scene.