Patty Loveless – I’m That Kind Of Girl

Introduction

I remember the first time I heard “I’m That Kind of Girl” by Patty Loveless. It was a crisp spring evening in the early ’90s, and my older sister had just brought home a cassette of On Down the Line. As the twangy guitar intro filled our living room, I was hooked—not just by the melody, but by the way Loveless’ voice carried a mix of vulnerability and sass. It felt like she was singing directly to me, a small-town kid dreaming of something bigger. Little did I know then that this song, penned by Matraca Berg and Ronnie Samoset, would become a timeless piece of country music history.

About The Composition

• Title: I’m That Kind of Girl
• Composer: Matraca Berg and Ronnie Samoset (songwriters)
• Premiere Date: Released as a single in January 1991
• Album/Opus/Collection: On Down the Line
• Genre: Country (Contemporary Country)

Background

“I’m That Kind of Girl” emerged from the creative minds of Matraca Berg and Ronnie Samoset, two songwriters who would later collaborate again on Loveless’ 2003 hit “On Your Way Home.” Released as the third single from Patty Loveless’ 1990 album On Down the Line, the song arrived during a pivotal moment in country music when traditional sounds were blending with a more polished, mainstream appeal. Loveless, already establishing herself as a force in the genre, brought this track to life with her emotive delivery. The song climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles and Tracks chart for 20 weeks, peaking at number 5 in late March 1991—a testament to its immediate resonance with audiences. In Loveless’ repertoire, it stands as a bridge between her early honky-tonk roots and the smoother, radio-friendly sound that defined her later career.

Musical Style

The song is a masterclass in contemporary country stylings of the early ’90s. It features a driving rhythm section with crisp guitar riffs and a steady backbeat, paired with subtle steel guitar flourishes that nod to Loveless’ traditional influences. The structure is classic verse-chorus, but the arrangement keeps it fresh with dynamic shifts in energy—softening for the introspective verses and swelling into a confident, toe-tapping chorus. Loveless’ vocal performance is the centerpiece, weaving through the melody with a blend of grit and grace that amplifies the song’s playful yet assertive tone. The instrumentation, while simple, supports her voice without overpowering it, creating a balanced and infectious sound.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “I’m That Kind of Girl” tell the story of a woman who knows who she is—and isn’t—when it comes to love. Lines like “I’m not the kind to wait around / For someone who won’t settle down” paint a picture of independence and self-assurance, while the chorus—“I’m that kind of girl / Who likes to have a little fun”—adds a flirty, lighthearted edge. The themes of empowerment and individuality shine through, perfectly complemented by the upbeat tempo and Loveless’ spirited delivery. It’s a narrative of agency, wrapped in a package that’s both relatable and celebratory.

Performance History

Since its release, “I’m That Kind of Girl” has remained a fan favorite in Loveless’ live performances. Its chart success in 1991 solidified its place in her setlists, and the accompanying music video—directed by John Lloyd Miller—added a visual layer to its charm. In the video, Loveless cycles through various outfits against a stark white background, scoping out “the right man” with a young girl mirroring her confidence, culminating in a sweet nod from a boy and an older gentleman tipping their hats. Over the years, the song has been celebrated as a standout track from On Down the Line, often cited in retrospectives of Loveless’ career as a defining moment in her rise to country stardom.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its chart performance, “I’m That Kind of Girl” has left a subtle but lasting mark on country music culture. It arrived at a time when female artists like Loveless, Reba McEntire, and Trisha Yearwood were reshaping the genre, bringing strong, multifaceted personas to the forefront. The song’s blend of traditional country elements with a modern edge helped pave the way for the genre’s evolution in the ’90s. Its playful spirit has also made it a go-to track for country playlists, and its video—a quirky, minimalist gem—reflects the era’s experimentation with visual storytelling in music.

Legacy

More than three decades later, “I’m That Kind of Girl” endures as a snapshot of Patty Loveless at her peak—an artist who could channel both heartache and joy with equal authenticity. Its relevance today lies in its timeless message of self-definition, resonating with listeners who still find strength in its lyrics. For performers, it remains a showcase of vocal prowess and emotional range, a piece that invites reinterpretation while honoring its roots. It’s a reminder of country music’s power to blend storytelling with sound in a way that feels both personal and universal.

Conclusion

For me, “I’m That Kind of Girl” is more than just a song—it’s a memory of discovering country music’s ability to speak to the soul. Its infectious energy and Loveless’ magnetic presence make it a track I return to time and again. I encourage you to give it a listen—check out the original album version on On Down the Line or watch the delightfully retro music video. Let it sweep you into its world of confidence and charm; you might just find yourself singing along, feeling like that kind of person too