“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Dwight Yoakam’s Little Ways is one of those songs that feels like a heartfelt conversation set to music. Released in 1987 as part of his album Hillbilly Deluxe, this track is a perfect example of Yoakam’s ability to blend traditional country sounds with a modern edge. It’s a song that doesn’t just play in the background—it pulls you in, makes you feel, and leaves you thinking about the little things that make or break a relationship.
At its core, Little Ways is a bittersweet reflection on love and disappointment. Yoakam’s lyrics tell the story of someone grappling with the small, seemingly insignificant actions (or inactions) that slowly erode a relationship. It’s not about grand betrayals or dramatic fights—it’s about the “little ways” someone shows (or doesn’t show) their love. And isn’t that something we can all relate to? Sometimes, it’s not the big gestures that matter most, but the everyday kindnesses, the small reassurances, and the quiet moments of connection.
What makes this song so special is how Yoakam delivers it. His voice carries a raw, almost aching quality that perfectly matches the song’s theme. You can hear the hurt, the longing, and even a touch of resignation in his tone. And then there’s the music itself—a blend of honky-tonk twang and rockabilly energy that gives the song a timeless feel. The steel guitar weaves through the melody like a thread of melancholy, while the rhythm keeps your foot tapping, even as your heart feels the weight of the words.
Little Ways also stands out because it’s a reminder of Yoakam’s unique place in country music. At a time when the genre was leaning heavily into pop influences, Yoakam stayed true to his roots, drawing inspiration from legends like Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. Yet, he wasn’t just imitating the past—he was reinventing it, giving it a fresh, contemporary twist. This song is a testament to his ability to honor tradition while still making it his own.
Beyond its musical brilliance, Little Ways resonates because it’s so deeply human. Who hasn’t felt the sting of being taken for granted? Who hasn’t wished for more from someone they love? The song captures those emotions with such honesty that it feels like Yoakam is singing directly to you, sharing a piece of his soul in the process.
Video
Lyrics
You’ve got your little ways to hurt me
You know just how to tear me up
And leave me in small pieces on the ground
You’ve got your little ways to hurt me
They’re not too big but they’re real tough
Just one cold look from you can knock me down
To look at you and me, no one would ever know
The pain that I’ve endured ’cause I won’t let it show
My friends would laugh out loud if they only knew
The truth about how I am just your lovesick fool
‘Cause you’ve got your little ways to hurt me
You know just how to tear me up
And leave me in small pieces on the ground
And you’ve got your little ways to hurt me
They’re not too big but they’re real tough
Just one cold look from you can knock me down
The sadness in my eyes should somehow be a clue
But no one here would ever suspect sweet little you
There’ve been rumors of the truth but I’ve kept it quiet
‘Cause I’m too ashamed to let them know you make me cry
And you’ve got your little ways to hurt me
You know just how to tear me up
And leave me in small pieces on the ground
You’ve got your little ways to hurt me
They’re not too big but they’re real tough
Just one cold look from you can knock me down
Yeah, your little ways can knock me to the ground