“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
I vividly recall the first time I heard “That Don’t Impress Me Much” on the radio. It was one of those moments where you stop whatever you’re doing just to soak in the music. Shania Twain’s voice, combined with the song’s playful lyrics, was an instant hook. It felt like a breath of fresh air in the late ’90s music scene, and it’s remained a favorite of mine ever since.
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
Released as a single in December 1998, “That Don’t Impress Me Much” is one of the standout tracks from Shania Twain’s critically acclaimed album Come On Over. Twain co-wrote the song with her then-husband and producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange. The inspiration for the song reportedly stemmed from Twain’s reaction to the public’s obsession with celebrity culture, particularly after hearing about Brad Pitt’s exploits in the media.
The song quickly rose to prominence, thanks to its catchy tune and witty lyrics. It became a massive hit, reaching top ten positions in several countries and contributing significantly to the album’s record-breaking success. The blend of country and pop elements in the song marked a pivotal moment in Twain’s career, helping to bridge the gap between the two genres and expand her audience.
Musical Style
Musically, “That Don’t Impress Me Much” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and a blend of country instrumentation with pop production. The song features electric guitars, a steady drumbeat, and synthesizer elements that give it a polished, contemporary sound. Twain’s vocal delivery is both confident and playful, perfectly complementing the song’s humorous and sassy lyrics.
The structure of the song is straightforward, following a traditional verse-chorus format. Each verse lists traits or accomplishments that fail to impress the narrator, leading into the iconic chorus that reinforces the song’s central theme.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “That Don’t Impress Me Much” are a playful critique of superficiality and materialism. Twain humorously dismisses various traits and achievements, emphasizing that true worth lies beyond outward appearances. The line “So you think you’re Brad Pitt?” has become particularly famous, encapsulating the song’s light-hearted yet poignant message.
Performance History
“That Don’t Impress Me Much” has been a staple in Shania Twain’s live performances since its release. She has performed the song at numerous high-profile events, including award shows and her own concerts. Memorable performances include her rendition at the 1999 Grammy Awards and her dynamic presentation during her world tours. The song continues to be a fan favorite, often generating enthusiastic sing-alongs during live shows.
Cultural Impact
The impact of “That Don’t Impress Me Much” extends far beyond the music charts. The song has been widely covered and parodied, and its lyrics have become part of popular culture. Its catchy chorus and memorable lines have been featured in advertisements, movies, and TV shows, further cementing its place in the cultural zeitgeist.
Legacy
“That Don’t Impress Me Much” remains one of Shania Twain’s most enduring hits. Its message of valuing substance over superficiality resonates with listeners even today. The song’s legacy is a testament to Twain’s ability to craft music that is both entertaining and meaningful, bridging the gap between country and pop in a way that few artists have managed.
Conclusion
For me, “That Don’t Impress Me Much” is more than just a song; it’s a statement. It’s a reminder to look beyond the surface and appreciate what’s truly important. If you haven’t yet experienced this iconic track, I highly recommend checking out Twain’s original recording or one of her live performances. It’s a timeless piece that continues to inspire confidence and authenticity in its listeners.
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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