I Want It That Way Lyrics
“I Want It That Way” lyrics are among the most famous pop lines of the late 1990s.
The song, performed by the Backstreet Boys, became a global anthem of love and longing.
Its lyrics talk about desire, heartbreak, and the confusion of a complicated relationship.
Fans admire its catchy chorus, even if the meaning feels a little mysterious.
Overall, the song remains a timeless classic that still connects with listeners today.
Song credits
| Category | Details |
| Song Title | I Want It That Way |
| Artist | Backstreet Boys |
| Album | Millennium |
| Release Date | April 12, 1999 |
| Songwriters | Max Martin, Andreas Carlsson |
| Producer | Max Martin, Kristian Lundin |
| Genre | Pop |
| Label | Jive Records |
I Want It That Way Lyrics
Verse 1
You are my fire
The one desire
Believe when I say
I want it that way
Verse 2
But we are two worlds apart
Can’t reach to your heart
When you say
That I want it that way
Verse 3
Tell me why
Ain’t nothing but a heartache
Tell me why
Ain’t nothing but a mistake
Tell me why
I never wanna hear you say
I want it that way
Verse 4
Am I your fire
Your one desire
Yes I know it’s too late
But I want it that way
Verse 5
Tell me why
Ain’t nothing but a heartache
Tell me why
Ain’t nothing but a mistake
Tell me why
I never wanna hear you say
I want it that way
Verse 6
Now I can see that we’re falling apart
From the way that it used to be, yeah
No matter the distance
I want you to know
That deep down inside of me
Verse 7
You are my fire
The one desire
You are
You are, you are, you are
Don’t wanna hear you say
Ain’t nothing but a heartache
Ain’t nothing but a mistake (don’t wanna hear you say)
I never wanna hear you say (oh, yeah)
I want it that way
Verse 8
Tell me why
Ain’t nothing but a heartache
Tell me why
Ain’t nothing but a mistake
Tell me why
I never wanna hear you say (don’t wanna hear you say)
I want it that way
Verse 9
Tell me why
Ain’t nothing but a heartache
Ain’t nothing but a mistake
Tell me why
I never wanna hear you say (never wanna hear you say)
I want it that way
‘Cause I want it that way
Frequently Asked Questions about
What is the main theme of “I Want It That Way”?
The song explores love, distance, and emotional misunderstandings in a relationship.
Who wrote the lyrics of “I Want It That Way”?
The lyrics were written by Max Martin and Andreas Carlsson, two famous Swedish songwriters.
Why do people say the lyrics are confusing?
Some fans find the words a bit contradictory, but that mystery adds to its charm.
Which album features this song?
It is part of the Backstreet Boys’ 1999 hit album Millennium.
Did “I Want It That Way” win any awards?
Yes, it received Grammy nominations and won several international music awards.
Why is the chorus so iconic?
The catchy melody and heartfelt repetition make it easy to sing along and unforgettable.
Is “I Want It That Way” still popular today?
Absolutely! It remains a fan favorite, often played at concerts, parties, and nostalgic playlists.
Final words
“I Want It That Way” lyrics carry a sense of deep emotion and longing.
The song speaks about love that feels distant but unforgettable.
Its words connect with anyone who has faced heartbreak or confusion in love.
Even after decades, the song still feels fresh and timeless.
Its catchy chorus makes it easy to sing along and remember.
That is why “I Want It That Way” remains one of the greatest pop songs ever.
