“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Back in the late ’90s, I remember driving down a dusty country road with the radio blaring. Suddenly, a new song came on, and its catchy beat and sassy lyrics instantly caught my attention. That song was “That Don’t Impress Me Much” by Shania Twain. Little did I know, this track would become an iconic anthem of female empowerment and self-confidence.
About The Composition
- Title: That Don’t Impress Me Much
- Composer: Shania Twain, Robert John “Mutt” Lange
- Premiere Date: December 1998
- Album/Opus/Collection: Come On Over
- Genre: Country Pop
Background
“That Don’t Impress Me Much” is a standout track from Shania Twain’s third studio album, Come On Over. Released in December 1998, this song quickly became a global hit, showcasing Twain’s unique blend of country and pop. The inspiration behind the song reportedly came from Twain’s reaction to people’s fascination with celebrities, particularly after hearing about Brad Pitt’s escapades in the tabloids. Twain, co-writing with her then-husband Robert John “Mutt” Lange, crafted a tune that humorously critiques superficiality, emphasizing that flashy cars and good looks aren’t everything.
The song’s initial reception was overwhelmingly positive, with listeners and critics alike praising its catchy melody and witty lyrics. It solidified Twain’s position as a leading figure in the country-pop crossover genre and became one of her signature hits.
Musical Style
The musical elements of “That Don’t Impress Me Much” are a fusion of country and pop, characterized by a strong, rhythmic beat, twangy guitar riffs, and Twain’s distinctive vocal delivery. The structure of the song follows a verse-chorus format, with each verse humorously listing traits that fail to impress the narrator, leading into the memorable chorus.
Instrumentation includes electric guitars, drums, and background synthesizers, creating a polished, radio-friendly sound. The use of these elements not only makes the song catchy but also accessible to a broader audience beyond traditional country music fans.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “That Don’t Impress Me Much” are playful and cheeky, with Twain listing various traits and accomplishments that, surprisingly, don’t impress her. The song’s humor lies in its relatable critique of materialism and superficiality, resonating with listeners who appreciate its light-hearted yet empowering message.
Performance History
Since its release, “That Don’t Impress Me Much” has been performed numerous times by Twain, including on major tours and television appearances. Notable performances include Twain’s rendition at the 1999 Grammy Awards and her appearance on the VH1 Divas Live ’98 special. The song has remained a staple in Twain’s live shows, often receiving enthusiastic responses from audiences.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “That Don’t Impress Me Much” extends beyond its initial success. The song has been covered and parodied by various artists, and its catchy chorus has been used in advertisements and films. Its lyrics, particularly the line “So you think you’re Brad Pitt?” have entered popular vernacular, often cited in discussions about celebrity culture and superficiality.
Legacy
Reflecting on its enduring importance, “That Don’t Impress Me Much” remains relevant today, continuing to inspire new generations of listeners with its message of self-assurance and authenticity. The song’s legacy is a testament to Twain’s ability to blend humor with a powerful message, creating music that resonates deeply with her audience.
Conclusion
Personally, “That Don’t Impress Me Much” never fails to bring a smile to my face. It’s a reminder to value substance over appearance and to stay true to oneself. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend exploring this track further, starting with Twain’s electrifying live performances or the original recording from Come On Over. This song is more than just a hit; it’s a timeless anthem of self-confidence and sass.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve known a few guys who thought they were pretty smart
But you’ve got being right down to an art
You think you’re a genius, you drive me up the wall
You’re a regular original, a know-it-all
Oh, oh, you think you’re special
Oh, oh, you think you’re something else
Okay, so you’re a rocket scientist
That don’t impress me much
So you got the brain but have you got the touch
Don’t get me wrong, yeah I think you’re alright
But that won’t keep me warm in the middle of the night
That don’t impress me much
I never knew a guy who carried a mirror in his pocket
And a comb up his sleeve-just in case
And all that extra hold gel in your hair oughta lock it
‘Cause Heaven forbid it should fall outta place
Oh, oh, so you think you’re something special
Oh, oh, you think you’re something else
Okay, so you’re Brad Pitt
That don’t impress me much
So you got the looks but have you got the touch
Don’t get me wrong, yeah I think you’re alright
But that won’t keep me warm in the middle of the night
That don’t impress me much
You’re one of those guys who likes to shine his machine
You make me take off my shoes before you let me get in
I can’t believe you kiss your car good night
C’mon baby tell me, you must be jokin’, right
Oh, oh, so you think you’re something special
Oh, oh, you think you’re something else
Okay, so you’ve got a car
That don’t impress me much
So you got the moves but have you got the touch
Don’t get me wrong, yeah I think you’re alright
But that won’t keep me warm in the middle of the night
That don’t impress me much
You think you’re cool but have you got the touch
Don’t get me wrong, yeah I think you’re alright
But that won’t keep me warm on the long, cold, lonely night
That don’t impress me much
Okay, so what do you think you’re Elvis or something
Whatever
That don’t impress me