Introduction:
“When” is a captivating ballad by the Canadian superstar Shania Twain. The song was released in 1998 as the fifth single from her massively successful third studio album, “Come On Over”, which debuted in November 1997. While “Come On Over” is predominantly categorized under the genres of country pop and pop rock, “When” leans more towards a tender and heartfelt ballad, showcasing Twain’s vocal versatility and emotional depth.
Despite not being released as a single in the United States, “When” achieved notable success in other international markets. In the United Kingdom, it became Twain’s second Top 20 single, peaking at number 18 on the UK Singles Chart in June 1998 and spending four weeks in the Top 75. It also performed well in Canada, reaching number 14 on the Canadian Singles Chart and peaking at number 8 on the Canadian Adult Contemporary chart. In Belgium, “When” reached number 12 on the Ultratop chart.
While it might not be as globally ubiquitous as some of the other mega-hits from “Come On Over” like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” or “You’re Still the One,” “When” holds a special place within Twain’s discography. Notably, Twain herself has mentioned that “When” is her personal favorite song from the “Come On Over” album, highlighting its significance to the artist. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its inclusion in the setlists of her tours, including the Come On Over Tour and as part of a medley during the Up! Tour. Although the music video for “When” has been rarely seen since its release and isn’t included in some of Twain’s video compilations, the song remains a cherished track among fans for its sincere lyrics and melodic beauty, further solidifying its place as a memorable contribution to one of the best-selling albums of all time.