Gotta love a good country duet, and What About Me? by the legendary Kenny Rogers is a prime example – though with a twist. Released in 1984 on Rogers’ album of the same name, this song isn’t your typical two-steppin’ love ballad. It’s a complex exploration of a love triangle, a poignant plea for recognition sung not just by Rogers, but by the soulful voices of Kim Carnes and James Ingram.
The mastermind behind the track’s production was David Foster, a music industry titan known for his work with artists ranging from Celine Dion to Whitney Houston. Foster’s touch is evident in the song’s arrangement. It’s a tasteful blend of country instrumentation – think acoustic guitars and subtle fiddle accents – with a touch of contemporary pop sensibilities, like soaring synthesizers that build during the chorus. This creates a dynamic soundscape that perfectly complements the emotional weight of the lyrics.
Now, the song’s origins are quite interesting. Originally conceived as a duet between Rogers and superstar songstress Barbra Streisand, the project eventually landed in the capable hands of Carnes, a Grammy-winning artist known for her own brand of soulful pop. The addition of James Ingram, a rising R&B star with a powerful voice, further elevates the song. Each vocalist represents a different perspective within the narrative: Rogers, the man caught in the middle, Carnes, the woman pleading for his love, and Ingram, the voice of the potential new flame.
What About Me? wasn’t just a showcase for vocal talent. The songwriting, a collaboration between Rogers, producer David Foster, and future pop icon Richard Marx, is nothing short of masterful. The lyrics are beautifully crafted, avoiding melodrama and instead opting for a raw honesty that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt overlooked in a relationship. The song doesn’t offer easy answers, instead leaving the listener to ponder the complexities of love and the yearning for emotional connection.
While the song didn’t quite crack the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, it reached number one on the Adult Contemporary charts, signifying its appeal to a wider audience. What About Me? became a signature tune for Rogers, a testament to his ability to explore emotional themes beyond the traditional confines of country music. It’s a song that lingers long after the last note fades, a reminder of the complexities of love and the universal desire to be seen and cherished in a relationship.