“I Want It That Way” is a classic Backstreet Boys song released in 1999. The lyrics express feelings of love, heartbreak, and longing, making it a fan favorite. With its catchy melody and emotional chorus, the song became an international hit.
The words convey a sense of nostalgia and deep emotions, resonating with listeners worldwide. Its iconic verses and unforgettable hook make it one of the greatest pop songs ever. Even today, the song remains a symbol of ‘90s music culture.
I Want It That Way Lyrics
Song Credit “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys:
Credit | Details |
---|---|
Song Title | I Want It That Way |
Artist | Backstreet Boys |
Album | Millennium (1999) |
Released | April 12, 1999 |
Genre | Pop |
Songwriters | Max Martin, Andreas Carlsson |
Producer | Max Martin, Kristian Lundin |
Label | Jive Records |
Length | 3:33 |
Intro
Yeah-eh-eh
Verse 1
You’re my flame
The sole longing
Believe me when I state
I crave it that manner
Verse 2
But we’re distant realms apart
Can’t breach your heart
When you declare
That I yearn for it in that manner
Chorus
Inform me why
Nothing but heartache
Inform me why
Nothing but blunder
Inform me why
Never want to hear you declare
I yearn for it in that manner
Verse 3
Am I your flame?
Your sole longing?
Yes, I acknowledge it’s belated
Yet I crave it that manner
Chorus
Inform me why
Nothing but heartache
Inform me why
Nothing but blunder
Inform me why
Never want to hear you declare
I yearn for it in that manner
Bridge
Now I realize we’re disintegrating
From how it formerly was
No matter the expanse, I desire you to comprehend
That inside of me
Verse 4
You’re my flame
The sole longing
You are (You are, you are, you are)
Don’t desire to hear you
Break
Nothing but heartache (Say, hey, yeah)
Nothing but blunder (Don’t want to hear you say)
Never want to hear you say (Oh, yeah)
I crave it in that manner
Chorus
Inform me why
Nothing but heartache
Inform me why
Nothing but blunder
Inform me why
Never want to hear you say
(Don’t want to hear you say)
I crave it in that manner
Inform me why
Nothing but heartache
Nothing but blunder
Inform me why
Never want to hear you say
(Never want to hear you say, yeah)
I crave it in that manner
Outro
‘Cause I crave it in that manner
Summary of “I Want It That Way”
The song expresses deep emotions of love, longing, and heartache. The lyrics describe a relationship where two people feel connected yet remain distant. The singer acknowledges the pain and misunderstandings but still desires things to stay the same.
The chorus repeats the plea to understand why things are falling apart, emphasizing emotional conflict. The bridge reflects on how the relationship has changed, yet the love remains strong. In the end, despite the struggles, the singer still craves the love “that way.”
Final Words
“I Want It That Way” remains one of the most iconic and timeless pop songs, capturing themes of love, heartache, and longing. Its melodic appeal and emotional depth continue to resonate with fans worldwide. Even after decades, the song holds a special place in music history, proving the lasting impact of the Backstreet Boys and their unforgettable sound.

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