Say You Don't Know Me
Kim Carnes · Voyeur [1982]
(Kim Carnes)
When I pass you on the street
And I wanna yell come back
Don't tell 'em that you know me
And when I'm standin' next to ya'
In a crowded room
And I wanna yell come back
Don't tell 'em that you know me
Don't let on
Don't let on
Don't let on
When they try and drive you out of your head
Just turn instead and say you don't know me
When I call your name out loud in a dream
Don't tell 'em that you know me
And when I look you in the eye
Cause eyes never lie
Don't tell 'em that you know me
Don't let on
Don't let on
Don't let on
When they try and drive you out of your head
Just turn instead and say you don't know me
When I talk too much about you
And they look for my reaction
Don't tell 'em that you know me
And when I try too hard to hide it
I look quick for some distraction
Cause I can't let it show on me
Don't let on
Don't let on
Don't let on
When they try and drive you out of your head
Just turn instead and say you don't know me
Say you don't know me
When I pass you on the street
And I wanna yell come back
Don't tell 'em that you know me
And when I'm standin' next to ya'
In a crowded room
And I wanna yell come back
Don't tell 'em that you know me
Don't let on
Don't let on
Don't let on
When they try and drive you out of your head
Just turn instead and say you don't know me
When I call your name out loud in a dream
Don't tell 'em that you know me
And when I look you in the eye
Cause eyes never lie
Don't tell 'em that you know me
Don't let on
Don't let on
Don't let on
When they try and drive you out of your head
Just turn instead and say you don't know me
When I talk too much about you
And they look for my reaction
Don't tell 'em that you know me
And when I try too hard to hide it
I look quick for some distraction
Cause I can't let it show on me
Don't let on
Don't let on
Don't let on
When they try and drive you out of your head
Just turn instead and say you don't know me
Say you don't know me
Say You Don't Know Me
Kim Carnes' 1982 hit 'Say You Don't Know Me' stands as a defining track of the new wave and synth-pop era. Released on her debut album, the song blends a driving electronic rhythm with a distinctive vocal performance that became a signature of her career. The recording captures the raw energy and emotional vulnerability characteristic of early 1980s pop, establishing Carnes as a major force in the genre. Its enduring appeal lies in its infectious melody and the way it encapsulates the anxieties and excitement of its time, making it a staple in countless compilations and a cultural touchstone for decades.