Background
“What About Me?” is a country ballad released in 1984 by American singer Kenny Rogers. The song was written by the renowned songwriting duo of Richard Marx and David Foster. It’s noteworthy that Marx, primarily known for his pop-rock hits in the late 80s and early 90s, penned this country classic relatively early in his career. Foster, a prolific songwriter and producer with a history of cross-genre success, further solidified the song’s potential with his involvement. The song was included on Rogers’ album “Eyes That See in the Dark,” a commercially successful album that also featured the hit duet “Islands in the Stream” with Dolly Parton. This album marked a period of significant commercial success for Rogers, cementing his status as one of the leading figures in country music.
Musical Style
“What About Me?” is a quintessential power ballad, characteristic of the 1980s. The song features a slow tempo, building gradually in intensity. A prominent piano melody introduces the song and serves as a recurring motif throughout. Rogers’ distinctive, slightly raspy vocals are central to the song’s emotional impact. The arrangement incorporates a lush orchestration with strings, adding to the dramatic atmosphere. Drums are used sparingly in the verses, creating a sense of intimacy, but become more pronounced in the chorus, driving the emotional climax. Electric guitar solos, typical of many power ballads of the time, are notably absent, allowing the focus to remain on Rogers’ vocals and the melodic hooks. The song utilizes a classic verse-chorus structure, building towards powerful, emotionally charged choruses. Harmonies, particularly in the chorus, further enhance the song’s richness and depth. The production features a polished and reverb-heavy sound that is synonymous with the 1980s pop and adult contemporary genres, reflecting Foster’s influence. Despite being categorized as country, the song transcends genre boundaries, appealing to a broad audience due to its universal themes and accessible musical style.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “What About Me?” explore the universal themes of heartbreak, loneliness, and the yearning for connection. The song tells the story of a man grappling with the pain of a lost relationship. He reflects on the shared memories and experiences, questioning his role in the breakdown and expressing a profound sense of loss and bewilderment. The repeated line “What about me?” in the chorus serves as a poignant cry for acknowledgement and understanding, highlighting the narrator’s feelings of being overlooked and forgotten. The verses detail specific moments and shared experiences, emphasizing the depth of the connection that has been lost. The lyrics utilize vivid imagery to paint a picture of a relationship that was once vibrant and full of life, now reduced to memories. The use of pronouns like “we” and “us” in the verses transitions to a singular “me” in the chorus, emphasizing the isolation and loneliness felt by the narrator. The bridge provides a moment of introspection, with the narrator questioning his own actions and wondering if there was anything he could have done differently. The song ends with a repetition of the chorus, leaving the listener with a sense of unresolved sadness and longing. The straightforward language and relatable themes of the lyrics contribute to the song’s emotional resonance.
Cultural Impact
“What About Me?” achieved significant commercial success, reaching high positions on various music charts, including the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It further solidified Kenny Rogers’ status as a prominent figure in the music industry. While the song may not have achieved the same level of cultural ubiquity as some of Rogers’ other hits, it remains a beloved and well-remembered song from the 1980s. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its relatable themes, powerful vocals, and memorable melody. “What About Me?” resonated with audiences experiencing similar emotions of heartbreak and loss, solidifying its place as a classic heartbreak anthem. Although not explicitly associated with any specific social or political events, the song tapped into the broader cultural anxieties and emotional landscape of the 1980s. The decade, known for its emphasis on individualism and personal expression, saw a surge in popularity of power ballads that explored themes of love, loss, and longing. “What About Me?” contributed to this trend, providing a soundtrack for the emotional experiences of a generation. The song’s success also underscored the blurring of genre lines in the 1980s, with country artists like Rogers achieving crossover success in the pop market. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, demonstrating its enduring appeal and influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
James Ingram and Kim Carnes
A significant aspect of “What About Me?” lies in its original conception as a trio. Kenny Rogers’ version, while successful, was preceded by a recording featuring James Ingram and Kim Carnes alongside Rogers. This version, while less commercially prominent, offers a different perspective on the song. The interplay of Ingram’s soulful vocals, Carnes’ distinctive voice, and Rogers’ country twang creates a unique dynamic. This original trio version showcases the song’s versatility and its ability to transcend genre boundaries even more explicitly. While Rogers’ solo version emphasizes the individual heartbreak narrative, the trio version introduces a dialogue and explores the complexities of a relationship from multiple perspectives. This less-known version of the song provides valuable insight into the creative process and highlights the collaborative nature of songwriting.
Conclusion
“What About Me?” remains a significant song in Kenny Rogers’ extensive catalog and a notable example of a successful crossover country ballad from the 1980s. Its powerful vocals, poignant lyrics, and memorable melody have ensured its lasting appeal. The song’s exploration of universal themes of heartbreak and longing resonates with listeners across generations. While often overshadowed by some of Rogers’ more iconic hits, “What About Me?” stands as a testament to his versatility as an artist and his ability to convey deep emotion through song. The song’s success also highlights the contributions of songwriters Richard Marx and David Foster and the impact of their collaborative efforts. The existence of the original trio version featuring James Ingram and Kim Carnes adds another layer of depth to the song’s history and reveals a fascinating alternative interpretation of the same powerful themes. In conclusion, “What About Me?” deserves recognition as a well-crafted and emotionally resonant song that continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many music fans. It represents a successful blending of country and pop sensibilities, showcasing the power of music to transcend genre boundaries and connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.