"You Can't Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want)" is a single from Joe Jackson's 1984 album Body and Soul. It spent sixteen weeks on the US Billboard Hot 100 and was Jackson's second-highest charted song in America when it peaked at number 15 the week of June 23, 1984.Joe Jackson, Billboard Hot 100 – Billboard.com. Retrieved January 6, 2025.Billboard Hot 100, Week of June 23, 1984 – Billboard.com. Retrieved January 6, 2025.
In addition to the 7” single, it was also released as a 12” single, remixed by John "Jellybean" Benitez.
Background The track features a slap bass performance from Jackson's longtime bassist Graham Maby. Maby recalled, "For 'You Can't Get What You Want,' on Body and Soul, Joe wanted me to slap. It was certainly not one of my strengths, but I think the track came out fine, and it was fun to play live."
Reception Glide Magazine ranked the song as Jackson's third best song. Mike DeGagne of AllMusic called the song "explosive."
Charts Chart (1984)PeakpositionAustralia (Kent Music Report) N.B. The Kent Report chart was licensed by ARIA from mid-1983 until 19 June 1988.96Canada Singles Chart30UK Singles Chart77
References
External links You Can't Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want) at Allmusic.com