Unveiling the Melodic Journey: The Captivating Tale of The Judds‘ “I Know Where I’m Going”
At just 18 years old, Wynonna Judd embarked on a whirlwind career with The Judds, only to find herself immersed in a period of soul-searching. The sudden attention turned her life into a spectacle, leaving her bewildered and longing for guidance. It was during this transformative time that she sought solace in the wisdom of Don Potter, the talented guitarist of The Judds. Little did she know that this encounter would ignite a profound spiritual dedication within her, giving birth to a song that resonated with her newfound commitment – “I Know Where I’m Going.”
While Wynonna was content with listeners enjoying the song solely for its upbeat rhythms, it held a far deeper significance for her. Co-writer Don Schlitz concurs that the song carries a definite spiritual undertone, cleverly woven into its fabric. When Schlitz and Brent Maher initially embarked on writing “I Know Where I’m Going,” they found themselves directionless. Armed with Maher’s rough guitar lick and melody, they recorded a cassette tape, which Schlitz diligently listened to in hopes of sparking lyrical inspiration. Yet, their early attempts proved fruitless.
However, a breakthrough occurred when Schlitz and Maher reconvened, and Brent proposed an inspired idea – infuse the song with a spiritual angle, akin to the timeless pop hit “People Get Ready” by the Impressions. This simple suggestion ignited a creative deluge within Schlitz, leading to the rapid development of the song’s core lyrics. Yet, an obstacle remained: the elusive chorus. No matter how hard they tried, their melodic attempts fell short of perfection.
Undeterred, Schlitz and Maher persisted in their quest to craft the ideal chorus. Their unwavering dedication, however, yielded no success. Finally, fate intervened when Don took a trip to California, leaving Brent to seek the assistance of a third songwriter, Craig Bickhardt. Bickhardt astutely identified the problem within the bridge section and set to work, rewriting its melody with precision. This minor yet crucial contribution breathed life into the song, finally bringing it to completion.
On July 18, 1987, The Judds triumphantly claimed the pinnacle of Billboard’s country singles chart with “I Know Where I’m Going.” The song marked their ninth of an astounding 14 number one hits, solidifying their status as country music icons. This enchanting composition not only captivated audiences with its infectious melodies but also served as a testament to Wynonna Judd’s personal journey of self-discovery and unwavering spiritual devotion.
- Artist: The Judds
- Released: 1987
- Album: Heartland
- Genre: Country
Lyrics
We gotta keep checkin’ in the clock, hold on
Nope
I know where I’m goin’
Don’t you wanna come too?
I got my reservations
And I got one for you
The train’s leavin’ just after dark
There’s always room for a lovin’ heart
I know where I’m goin’
Don’t you wanna come too?
I know my destination
It’s a-waiting for me
I got no hesitation
That’s where I want to be
And by the time that the sun comes up
I’ll be drinkin’ from a lovin’ cup
I know where I’m goin’
Don’t you wanna come too?
Don’t you wanna come?
Don’t you wanna ride?
Don’t you wanna be there by my side?
Hand in hand holding on to
A sweet salvation that is waiting for me and you
I know why I’m singin’
Don’t you wanna sing too? (Get a picture of this, this my better side, okay?)
Can’t you hear the bells a-ringin’?
Let the spirit move you
Just close your eyes and let it flow
Lean your head back, let it go
I know where I’m goin’
Don’t you wanna come too? (Woo!)
Don’t you wanna come?
Don’t you wanna ride?
Don’t you wanna be there by my side?
Hand in hand holding on to
A sweet salvation that is waiting for me and you
I know where I’m goin’
Don’t you wanna come too? (Look at me)
I got my reservations
And I got you for you
I know why I’m singin’
Don’t you wanna sing too?
Can’t you hear the bells a ringin’?
Let the spirit move you
Spirit move you, yeah
I know where I’m goin’
Don’t you wanna come too?
I know where I’m goin’
Don’t you wanna come too?
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