About the song
“Dance With The One That Brought You.” While perhaps not as globally ubiquitous as some of her stadium anthems, this song is a fantastic example of her early-to-mid-career brilliance and her knack for delivering relatable messages with irresistible energy.
Released in 1993 from her self-titled debut album, “Dance With The One That Brought You” quickly became a fan favorite, showcasing Shania Twain’s burgeoning talent and her ability to inject genuine personality into her music. The song’s central metaphor is as old as time and as simple as it is profound: stick with what works, appreciate what you have, and don’t abandon your loyalties for something new and shiny. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply, particularly with an audience that understands the value of fidelity, both in relationships and in life generally. It’s a gentle reminder to not get caught up in fleeting temptations when you’ve already got something solid and true.
What makes “Dance With The One That Brought You” so appealing is its undeniable warmth and straightforward delivery. Shania’s vocal performance is full of that youthful sparkle and confident sass that would become her trademark. She sings with a playful conviction, making the wise advice feel more like a friendly nudge than a stern lecture. The lyrics are clever and catchy, painting a picture of social situations where the grass might seem greener, but the true comfort lies in staying grounded. “Don’t go lookin’ for a new parade / When the one you’re on has got it made,” she advises, capturing the essence of contentment over restless searching.
Musically, the song is pure early ’90s country gold. It’s got a lively, upbeat tempo, driven by a tight rhythm section and punctuated by classic country instrumentation – think vibrant fiddle, twangy guitars, and a buoyant bassline. The production is clean and crisp, allowing the song’s infectious melody and Shania’s clear vocals to take center stage. It’s the kind of song that just makes you want to tap your foot or even get up and do a little two-step. For those of us who appreciate country music that combines catchy melodies with sensible, down-to-earth wisdom, “Dance With The One That Brought You” remains a delightful and relevant piece in Shania Twain’s impressive catalog, a true gem that reminds us of the enduring value of staying true to our roots and our loyalties.
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Lyrics
Well, he shines like a penny in a little kid’s hand
When he’s out on a Saturday night
He’s a real go-getter and the best two-stepper you’ll see
But when I’m sittin’ alone at a table for two
‘Cause he’s already out on the floor
I think about somethin’ that my mama used to say to me
You got to dance with the one that brought you
Stay with the one that wants you
The one who’s gonna love you when all of the others go home
Don’t let the green grass fool you
Don’t let the moon get to you
Dance with the one that brought you, and you can’t go wrong
He’s got his old best buddies and his new best friends
And the girls all give him the eye
He’s a good time Charlie and the life of the party tonight
But when I think about another, well, I don’t think twice
‘Cause there’ll never be another like him
I know he really loves me, and I think maybe mama was right
You got to dance with the one that brought you
And stay with the one that wants you
The one who’s gonna love you when all of the others go home
Don’t let the green grass fool you
Don’t let the moon get to you
Dance with the one that brought you, and you can’t go wrong
You got to dance with the one that brought you
And you can’t go wrong
