About the song
Background
- Released in August 1995 as the title track and third single from Shania Twain’s second studio album, The Woman in Me
- The album was her first collaboration with then-husband Robert John “Mutt” Lange, who co-wrote and produced the song.
- It became a breakout hit, helping propel the album to massive success (selling over 20 million copies worldwide).
- The catchy melody and Shania’s powerful vocals established her as a major force in country music.
- An accompanying music video features Shania riding a horse through the desert and sailing down the Nile River.
Themes
- The song’s title and lyrics have been interpreted in various ways.
- On the surface, it can be seen as a romantic ballad expressing a woman’s desire for a strong, supportive partner.
- However, some listeners perceive a more complex message.
- The lyrics could be seen as reinforcing traditional gender roles, suggesting a woman needs a man to be complete.
- Shania herself has downplayed this interpretation, emphasizing the song’s message of empowerment and celebrating female strength alongside a desire for a fulfilling partnership.
Overall
“The Woman in Me (Needs the Man in You)” is a significant song in Shania Twain’s career, marking her commercial breakthrough. While the theme of partnership is central, the interpretation of its message remains open to discussion.
Video
Lyrics
I’m not always strongAnd sometimes I’m even wrongBut I win when I chooseAnd I can’t stand to lose
But I can’t always beThe rock that you seeWhen the nights get too longAnd I just can’t go on
The woman in meNeeds you to beThe man in my armsTo hold tenderly‘Cause I’m a woman in loveAnd it’s you I run toYeah, the woman in meNeeds the man in you
When the world wants too muchAnd it feels cold and out of touchIt’s a beautiful placeWhen you kiss my face
The woman in meNeeds you to beThe man in my armsTo hold tenderly‘Cause I’m a woman in loveAnd it’s you I run toYeah, the woman in meNeeds the man in you
Yeah the woman in meNeeds the man in you
I need you, babyYeah, yeahOh, babyOh, oh, mmOh, yeah, yeahI need you baby