Say It Loud and Proud: The Timeless Charm of “Say What You Want” by Texas

Exploring the Timeless Classic from Texas

Founded in Glasgow, Scotland in 1986, the alternative rock band Texas has etched its name in the annals of music history through their unique sound and exceptional talent. Fronted by the charismatic and versatile vocalist Sharleen Spiteri, the band also consists of co-founder Johnny McElhone on bass, Ally McErlaine on guitar, Eddie Campbell on keyboards, and Michael Bannister on drums.

One of their most iconic and beloved tracks is “Say What You Want,” which served as the lead single from their 1997 album “White on Blonde.” With its catchy melody and unforgettable lyrics, this song not only demonstrated the group’s growth as musicians, but also propelled them into the international spotlight. “White on Blonde” went on to become a multi-platinum success, solidifying Texas’ status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of alternative rock.

In “Say What You Want,” Sharleen Spiteri’s soulful voice effortlessly conveys the raw emotion behind the lyrics, which touch on themes of love, vulnerability, and self-identity. The song’s accompanying music video, shot in monochrome and featuring a captivating performance from Spiteri, further enhances the song’s appeal and contributes to its enduring legacy.

Throughout their career, Texas has faced its own share of challenges, including band member changes and periods of hiatus. One such instance was the departure of founding member Stuart Kerr in 1991, which led to a temporary split in the band. However, their ability to bounce back and continue delivering quality music has only added to their resilience and charm.

Over the years, Texas has received numerous accolades, including a BRIT Award for Best British Video for “Say What You Want” in 1998. Additionally, the success of “White on Blonde” led to three Ivor Novello Awards for the band, which are given to recognize outstanding achievements in songwriting and composition.

While some critics might argue that Texas has not been able to consistently replicate the magic and success of “Say What You Want,” it is essential to mention that the band has continued to experiment with their sound and evolve as musicians. Their passion for music and dedication to their craft has enabled them to produce a diverse and impressive discography that spans over three decades, with their latest album, “Hi,” released in 2021.

In conclusion, Texas’ “Say What You Want” stands as a testament to the band’s exceptional talent and the enduring power of music to resonate with audiences across generations. As we celebrate this timeless classic and the band’s impressive journey, we eagerly await more memorable tunes from this remarkable group in the years to come.

Charting the Success of a Timeless Track

When it comes to chart performance, “Say What You Want” by Texas certainly made a lasting impact. Released on January 6, 1997, the track quickly gained traction and climbed the charts. The song served as the lead single from their fourth studio album, “White on Blonde,” and brought the band back into the limelight.

Upon its release, “Say What You Want” initially entered the UK Singles Chart at an impressive No. 10, but its success didn’t stop there. The single continued to gain popularity, eventually peaking at No. 3 and securing its position as one of the band’s most successful songs to date. In total, “Say What You Want” spent an impressive 21 weeks on the UK Singles Chart, showcasing its enduring appeal.

Aside from its success in the UK, “Say What You Want” also found its way onto charts internationally. The song reached No. 1 in Iceland and No. 29 in New Zealand. Additionally, it also made appearances on the Irish and Swedish charts, landing at No. 18 and No. 30, respectively.

As for chart trivia, “Say What You Want” played a significant role in revitalizing Texas’ career, as it marked their first top 10 UK hit since “Black Eyed Boy” in 1994. Furthermore, the album “White on Blonde” went on to become Texas’ best-selling album, with six of its singles charting in the UK top 10.

In summary, “Say What You Want” by Texas not only solidified its status as a timeless track but also served as a testament to the band’s undeniable talent and continued success. With its impressive chart positions and international appeal, it’s no wonder that this song remains a fan favorite more than two decades after its release.

Breaking Down the Lyrics of “Say What You Want”

The lyrics for “Say What You Want” by Texas, released in 1997, may seem simple on the surface, but a deeper dive into the meaning behind the words reveals a profound message. The song was written during a time of significant change and uncertainty, both on a global scale and within the music industry.

In the late ’90s, the world was transitioning into the new millennium while grappling with various social, political, and economic tensions. The music industry was also undergoing a massive shift, as the digital revolution began to take hold, forcing artists to adapt and change the ways they produced and distributed their music.

The lyrics of “Say What You Want” reflect these transitions, as well as the emotions of grappling with change and uncertainty. The words “Twenty seconds on the back time / I feel you’re on the run” indicate a sense of urgency and a feeling of being chased, perhaps by the rapid changes occurring around the band at the time.

The chorus, “Say what you want / But don’t say it’s over,” can be interpreted as a plea to not give up or lose hope amidst the chaos and uncertainty of the era. This sentiment is echoed in the lines, “Never in my life did I think that it mattered / Now I know it’s the only thing I need.” These lines suggest that the experiences and emotions of this tumultuous time ultimately helped the band members realize the importance of perseverance and resilience.

Overall, the lyrics of “Say What You Want” capture the spirit of a time marked by change, uncertainty, and the need for adaptation. It serves as a powerful reminder for listeners to stay strong and resilient during challenging times, making it a timeless anthem for any era.

A Visual Journey in “Say What You Want”

The music video for “Say What You Want” is a true testament to the artistic prowess of Texas, as they successfully merge powerful visuals with their catchy track. Directed by the renowned Vaughan Arnell, who is known for his work with major artists like Robbie Williams, George Michael, and Jamiroquai, this music video is a masterclass in visual storytelling.

The production details of the video are impressive, with the majority of the budget spent on stunning sets and high-quality filming equipment. The result is a sleek and polished aesthetic that enhances the overall viewing experience. The video was filmed in various locations, including a desert, a bustling cityscape, and an empty warehouse, showcasing the versatility of the band’s style and sound. The choice of locations also adds an element of intrigue, as the contrasting scenes provide a visually compelling backdrop for the song’s powerful lyrics.

Artistically, the “Say What You Want” music video is a perfect blend of performance and narrative sequences. The band members are seen throughout the video playing their instruments and singing, which captures the energy and passion they bring to their music. Intercut with these performance shots are narrative scenes that tell the story of a woman on a journey of self-discovery, echoing the song’s theme of finding one’s voice and reclaiming power.

One particularly memorable scene shows the female protagonist, played by the band’s frontwoman Sharleen Spiteri, walking through a crowded marketplace wearing a blindfold. This powerful visual metaphor symbolizes her quest to find her true self amidst the chaos and noise of everyday life. As the video progresses, the woman becomes stronger and more confident, ultimately shedding the blindfold and embracing her newfound freedom.

In addition to the captivating visuals, the music video for “Say What You Want” has also inspired fans to create their own tributes and covers on platforms like YouTube. These fan-made videos further demonstrate the impact the song and its accompanying visuals have had on the band’s dedicated audience.

Overall, the “Say What You Want” music video is an artistic triumph that showcases Texas’s ability to blend powerful storytelling with their unique sound. With its evocative imagery and compelling narrative, the video will undoubtedly continue to captivate and inspire fans for years to come.

The Mastermind Behind “Say What You Want”

Sharleen Spiteri, the lead vocalist and guitarist of Texas, co-wrote “Say What You Want” with the band’s bassist Johnny McElhone. McElhone, a gifted composer, has been instrumental in shaping the band’s sound throughout their long and successful career. Besides “Say What You Want,” McElhone has co-written numerous notable Texas hits, including “I Don’t Want a Lover,” “Black Eyed Boy,” and “Inner Smile.” Prior to joining Texas, McElhone was a member of the bands Altered Images and Hipsway, where he contributed to their distinct sound and gained valuable experience in songwriting. With a knack for crafting catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, McElhone’s creative prowess has undoubtedly played a significant role in the enduring appeal and success of Texas.

Awards, Accolades, and Adaptations

“Say What You Want” has earned its place as one of Texas’ most iconic songs, and for good reason. Released in 1997 as the lead single from their critically acclaimed album “White on Blonde,” the track quickly became a fan favorite and garnered significant commercial success.

The success of “Say What You Want” was not limited to its chart performance, as it went on to receive various awards and accolades throughout the years. One such recognition came in the form of a prestigious Ivor Novello Award nomination for Best Contemporary Song in 1998. The song’s impressive staying power can also be seen in its enduring presence on various “Best of” and “Greatest Hits” compilations, as well as its numerous inclusions in year-end lists and countdowns.

In addition to its impressive accolades, “Say What You Want” has found its way into a variety of media formats over the years. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics made it the perfect choice for inclusion in popular TV shows, movies, and even video games. Notably, “Say What You Want” was featured in the hit British romantic comedy “Notting Hill,” starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, in 1999. This cinematic connection helped introduce the song to an even wider audience and further solidified its status as a modern classic.

As with any influential song, “Say What You Want” has inspired numerous covers and reinterpretations over the years. Artists from various genres have put their own unique spin on the track, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal. Among the most notable covers are those by renowned Scottish singer-songwriter Paolo Nutini, as well as the haunting rendition by Irish alt-rock band The Cranberries during a live performance in 2017.

To sum up, “Say What You Want” has undeniably left a lasting impact on the music world, and its various awards, accolades, and adaptations serve as further testament to its enduring appeal. As fans continue to discover and appreciate this unforgettable track, its legacy will undoubtedly live on for many years to come.

Diving Deeper into the Musicality

When examining the musical structure of “Say What You Want,” one can’t help but notice its solid foundation in the key of E major. The song’s chord progression is quite straightforward, yet it provides a perfect backdrop for the emotive vocals and catchy melody. The progression follows a I-IV-V pattern, which in the context of E major, translates to E-A-B. This classic pop chord structure lends itself well to the song’s overall accessibility and easy listening quality.

In terms of tempo, “Say What You Want” sits comfortably at 78 beats per minute (BPM), placing it in the realm of a moderately paced ballad. This tempo choice allows the song to maintain a certain level of energy while also giving space for the heartfelt lyrics and intricate instrumentals to truly shine. The song features a 4/4 time signature, which is quite common in pop music and helps to create a strong rhythmic foundation.

One of the standout elements of this track is the intricate guitar work. The verse sections showcase a delicate finger-picking pattern that dances around the underlying chords, while the chorus sections emphasize strummed chords with a slight palm-muting technique, providing a subtle contrast between the two. The electric guitar also makes an appearance, offering tasteful melodic lines that complement the song’s primary melody.

The drum arrangement in “Say What You Want” is yet another aspect that contributes to the song’s overall mood and feel. The drum pattern is relatively simple, focusing primarily on the snare and kick drum, with occasional cymbal accents. This simplicity allows the vocals and other instruments to take center stage while still providing a steady rhythmic backbone.

The bass guitar plays a crucial role in “Say What You Want,” as well. The bass lines are melodic and syncopated, often deviating from the root notes of the chords to create intriguing countermelodies. This adds an extra layer of depth to the harmonic structure, providing a rich foundation for the rest of the instrumentation.

It’s also worth noting the use of various background vocal harmonies throughout the song. These harmonies are often subtle and understated, yet they add a layer of complexity and richness to the arrangement. The vocal harmonies can be heard in the pre-chorus sections as well as during the final chorus, adding a sense of emotional climax to the song.

Overall, “Say What You Want” showcases the band’s ability to create a captivating and emotionally resonant song through their expert use of musical elements such as chord progressions, tempo, and intricate instrumental arrangements.