Don't Do Me Like That
Tom Petty · Greatest Hits [1993]
Said a woman had hurt his pride
Told him that she loved him so, then
Turned around and let him go
Then he said "you'd better watch your step"
Or you're gonna get hurt yourself
Someone's gonna tell you lies
Cut you down to size...
Don't do me like that, Don't do me like that
What if I love you baby, Don't do me like that
Don't do me like that, Don't do me like that
Someday I'll need ya baby, Don't do me like that
Listen honey can you see, baby you would bury me
if you were in a public eye, givin' someone else a try
And you know you'd better watch your step, or you're gonna get hurt yourself
Someone's gonna tell you lies, Cut you down to size...
Don't do me like that, don't do me like that
What if I love you baby don't don't don't don't
Don't do me like that, don't do me like that
What if I need you baby, don't do me like that
'Cause somewhere deep down inside, someone is sayin'
Love doesn't last that long...
I have the feeling inside, night and day
And I can't take it no more....
Listen honey can you see, baby you would bury me
if you were in a public eye, givin' someone else a try
And you know you'd better watch your step, or you're gonna get hurt yourself
Someone's gonna tell you lies, Cut you down to size...
Don't do me like that, don't do me like that
What if I love you baby don't don't don't don't
Don't do me like that, don't do me like that
I just might need you honey, don't do me like that
Don't do me like that, don't do me like that
Baby baby baby, don't don't don't don't
Don't do me like that, don't do me like that
Baby baby baby, oh oh oh. . . .
About Don't Do Me Like That
Tom Petty's "Don't Do Me Like That" stands as a quintessential example of his mid-career songwriting, blending his signature rock energy with a sharp, conversational lyricism that defined his approach to storytelling. Recorded for the 1993 *Greatest Hits* compilation, the track captures the essence of Petty's work during a period where he was refining his sound while reflecting on themes of relationship dynamics and personal integrity. The song's driving rhythm and Petty's distinctive vocal delivery create an immediate connection, characteristic of his ability to craft anthems that resonate with listeners across generations. As part of his extensive discography, this recording exemplifies the balance Petty achieved between commercial appeal and artistic authenticity. It showcases his skill in writing songs that feel both intimate and universal, avoiding overly specific narratives in favor of relatable emotional truths. The track remains a staple in discussions of his musical legacy, illustrating how his work continued to evolve while maintaining the core elements that made him a defining voice in American rock music throughout the 1980s and 1990s.