You Can't Get What You Want

Joe Jackson

About You Can't Get What You Want

"You Can't Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want)" is a single from Joe Jackson's 1984 album Body and Soul. In addition to the 7” single, it was also released as a 12” single, remixed by John "Jellybean" Benitez. On the 12 May 1984 edition of American Top 40, Casey Kasem contrasted the title "You Can't Get What You Want" as more definitive than The Rolling Stones' title "You Can't Always Get What You Want".


Year:
2005
121 
#2

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Sometimes you start feelin'
So lost and lonely
Then you'll find
It's all been in your mind

Sometimes you think
Someone is the one and only
Can't you see
It could be you and me?
But if there's any doubt
Then I think I'll leave it out

'Cause I'll tell you one thing
You can't get what you want
Till you know what you want
Said, you can't get what you want
Till you know what you want?

Sometimes you keep busy
Reaching out for something
You don't care
There's always something there

Sometimes you can't see
That all you need is one thing
If it's right, you could sleep at night
But it can take some time
But at least I'm here in line

'Cause I'll tell you one thing
You can't get what you want
Till you know what you want
Said, you can't get what you want
Till you know what you want

Sometimes you can't see
That all you need is one thing
If it's right, you could sleep at night
But it can take some time
But at least I'm here in line

'Cause I'll tell you one thing
You can't get what you want
Till you know what you want
Said, you can't get what you want
Till you know what you want

Tell everyone
You can't get what you want
What you want?
Tell everyone
You can't get what you want
What you want?

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Joe Jackson

Joe Jackson (born David Ian Jackson, 11 August 1954) is an English musician and singer-songwriter now living in Berlin, whose five Grammy Award nominations span from 1979 to 2001. He is probably best known for the 1979 hit song and first single "Is She Really Going Out with Him?", which still gets extensive US FM radio airplay; for his 1982 hit, "Steppin' Out"; and for his 1984 success with "You Can't Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want)". He was popular for his pop/rock and New Wave music early on before moving to more eclectic, though less commercially successful, pop/jazz/classical hybrids. more »

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Written by: JOE JACKSON

Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Release Information
"You Can't Get What You Want" was released by British musician Joe Jackson in March 1984. The song is from his sixth studio album "Body and Soul".
Chart Performance
The song was a major hit for Jackson, peaking at number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, making it his highest-charting single in the U.S. to date.
Unique Sound
The song blends elements of pop and jazz music, reflecting the overall sound of the "Body and Soul" album. The saxophone solo and prominent piano chords are prominent features of this song.
Meaning of the Song
Though the song title may indicate negativity or pessimism, "You Can't Get What You Want" is an upbeat song. It speaks about the unfulfilled desires and dreams in human life but also suggests the endless possibilities in pursuit of them.
Critic Reception
The song received positive reviews from music critics. Its catchy tune, memorable lyrics, and Jackson's rhythmic piano playing were particularly praised.
Video Production
The music video for "You Can't Get What You Want" is notable for its black-and-white film style. It represents the song's nostalgic feel and pays homage to the earlier era of jazz music.
Recording Process
For "Body and Soul", including the hit single "You Can't Get What You Want", Jackson and his band recorded in an old Masonic temple in New York, using long-distance microphones to capture a 'live' feeling.
Lasting Appeal
Despite being released over three decades ago, "You Can't Get What You Want" continues to be a staple on classic rock and pop radio stations. It solidified Jackson's position as a talented musician who crosses genre boundaries.
Influence
"You Can't Get What You Want" served as an inspiration for many artists and bands. The song's distinctive blend of pop and jazz was unusual for its time and widely appreciated.
Vinyl Record
Originally, the song was released as 7" and 12" vinyl single which also featured a track called "Cha Cha Loco" as a B-side track.
Live Performances
The song is a popular part of Joe Jackson's live performances and is generally well-received by the audience.

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    You Can't Get What You Want

    506
    14     1

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1984

    Billboard #15


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