The Empowering Message in Pam Tillis’ “Don’t Tell Me What To Do”
Introduction
Few things can make us feel more alive than letting our hair down to our favourite songs. Music has a way of connecting with our hearts and souls, which is why we often find ourselves singing along to the lyrics without even knowing what they mean. But every once in a while, a song comes along with lyrics that have such powerful meaning, it’s impossible to miss the message. Pam Tillis’ “Don’t Tell Me What To Do” is one of those songs.
Background
Pam Tillis, the daughter of country music legend Mel Tillis, made her mark in the industry with hits like “Maybe It Was Memphis,” “Shake the Sugar Tree,” and “Mi Vida Loca (My Crazy Life).” But it was her empowering anthem, “Don’t Tell Me What To Do,” released in 1990, that captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
The Lyrics
The song’s chorus goes, “Don’t tell me what to do / And don’t tell me what to say / And please, when I go out with you / Don’t put me on display.” The verses speak of a woman’s journey to assert her independence and be true to herself, despite the pressures of societal expectations. The lyrics, written by Tillis and Paul Overstreet, are straightforward yet powerful, resonating with anyone who’s ever felt trapped in a situation where they were expected to conform.
The Message
At face value, “Don’t Tell Me What To Do” is a song about a woman standing up for herself and refusing to let others dictate her life. It’s a message of empowerment for women who are tired of being told how to act, speak, or dress. But on a deeper level, the song is about the human desire to be free from the constraints of society and the pressure to conform.
Empowering Women
“Don’t Tell Me What To Do” became a feminist anthem in the early ’90s, as women began demanding more space in the male-dominated world of music. It was a time when artists like Tillis were paving the way for female country singers to have a voice in the industry. Tillis was vocal about the challenges of being a woman in country music, stating in an interview with The Dallas Morning News in 1990, “It’s always been tough for women in country music, and I think it probably always will be. But I hope that my success will make it easier for the women who come along behind me.”
Breaking Barriers
Tillis’ songwriting and unique vocals broke down barriers in country music, a genre that was known for its male-dominated culture. She paved the way for artists like Shania Twain, Faith Hill, and Martina McBride, who took the genre by storm in the ’90s and early 2000s. Tillis’ influence can be seen in the success of these artists, who took the message of empowerment for women to new heights.
The Legacy
The legacy of “Don’t Tell Me What To Do” can be seen in the current wave of female artists who are taking over country music. Kacey Musgraves, Maren Morris, and Miranda Lambert are just a few of the women who are not afraid to speak out against societal norms and gender stereotypes. The lyrics of “Don’t Tell Me What To Do” still ring true today, as women continue to demand more space in the music industry and in society at large.
Conclusion
Pam Tillis’ “Don’t Tell Me What To Do” is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a message of empowerment and freedom that has resonated with people for over 30 years. The song’s legacy lives on in the current wave of female country artists who are breaking down barriers and demanding more space in the industry. Tillis’ message is clear: don’t let anyone tell you what to do or who to be. Be true to yourself, and you’ll find the freedom you’ve been searching for.
