The line between pop and country music became more blurred than ever on November 4, 1997. That pivotal day marked the release of Shania Twain‘s history-making third studio album, Come on Over.
Videos by American Songwriter
The Canadian-born talent offered a new and exciting sound, meshing elements from a range of genres. She matched traditional country instruments like pedal steel with roaring electric guitar riffs pulled from modern rock. Twain was pushing the boundaries sonically and lyrically, infusing a fiercely feminine perspective into her songs without apology.
[RELATED: Ranking All of Shania Twain’s No. 1 Hits]
Come on Over was a massive hit with fans globally and has been certified platinum 20 times over. Although every one of its 16 tracks should be celebrated, we’ve taken on the challenge of comparing and contrasting each song.
Take a look at our ranking of every track from Shania Twain’s influential album Come on Over below.
16. “Whatever You Do! Don’t!”
Although it’s at the bottom of this list of stellar tracks, “Whatever You Do! Don’t!” is the perfect jam for anyone awash in the nervous joy of a new relationship.
15. “I’m Holdin’ on to Love (to Save My Life)”
Although this track shows its age through a reference to Dr. Ruth, it’s another fun, energizing celebration of love and commitment.
14. “I Won’t Leave You Lonely”
This poetic love song includes a few lighthearted dashes of French and Spanish flare. “I Won’t Leave You Lonely” could fall flat in the hands of most artists, but Twain puts plenty of heart into her vocal performance.
13. “Black Eyes, Blue Tears”
The lyrics of this powerful track can be taken literally or figuratively, but relay an urgency in either context. “Black Eyes, Blue Tears” harnesses the power found in savoring freedom from an abusive relationship.
12. “Rock This Country!”
This blazing rally cry is the musical equivalent of a caffeine buzz. Although Twain never truly defines what it means to “Rock This Country!,” she certainly knows how to get fans amped for the mission.
11. “When”
Sometimes the best way to ease the sting of heartbreak is to escape into an alternate universe. Call it delusion or a manifested vision of the future, “When” finds Twain describing a world where a past relationship could have a second chance to flourish.
10. “If You Wanna Touch Her, Ask!”
Arguably one of Twain’s most underrated feminist anthems, “If You Wanna Touch Her, Ask!” is an anthem for consent. Through a spell of infectious lyrical lines, she spells out a tutorial of how to treat a woman right.
9. “You’ve Got a Way”
Twelve tracks from Come on Over were sent to radio as singles following its initial release in 1997. Her sweet ballad “You’ve Got a Way” marked the ninth, and got a boost in recognition thanks to its inclusion in the hit 1999 film Notting Hill.
8. “Come on Over”
The record’s playful title track finds our country hitmaker offering some timely wisdom to anyone unsure of what to do next. Take a trip? Take a seat? Whatever path you choose, Twain will be there to cheer you on.
7. “Don’t Be Stupid (You Know I Love You)”
If there’s one thing Shania Twain makes clear in Come on Over, it’s that she has no time to waste on uncertainty. In “Don’t Be Stupid (You Know I Love You),” she pushes back on a significant other who seems to be projecting his insecurities onto her.
6. “From This Moment On”
Co-written by Twain with her then-husband “Mutt” Lange, “From This Moment On” is one of the decade’s most impactful love songs. Propelled by added vocals from fellow 90s country artist Bryan White, the tune is still a popular addition to wedding playlists worldwide.
5. “Honey, I’m Home”
Twain flips the script on stereotypical gender roles in this punchy track that became a No. 1 hit in 1998. She offers a reminder of what women actually deal with on a daily basis, and how they deserve just as much pampering as their male counterparts.
4. “You’re Still the One”
Another co-write from Twain and Lange, “You’re Still the One” was written as a response to those who doubted the longevity of their relationship. Although the pair did eventually part ways, the track stands as one of Twain’s most stunning ballads and one of the best-selling songs of the 1990s.
3. “Love Gets Me Every Time”
Delivered to radio as the lead single from Come on Over, “Love Gets Me Every Time” tells the relatable story of falling fast and hard any time she crosses paths with Cupid.
2. “That Don’t Impress Me Much”
From its lyrical namedropping to Twain’s perfected vocal delivery, “That Don’t Impress Me Much” is, well, impressive. Her personality and confidence shine in this imagery-driven gem that still stands out among her best releases to date.
1. “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!”
It’s easy to give a song the label of a “feminist anthem,” but “Man! I Feel Like a Woman” epitomizes that phrase. It’s irresistible rhythm, enlivening message, and eye-catching music video helped make this track a trademark hit for Twain—and a staple at karaoke bars worldwide.
Photo by Paul Natkin/Getty Images
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.