About the song
Toby Keith Gets Real About Aging in “As Good As I Once Was”
Released in May 2005, “As Good As I Once Was” by Toby Keith is a country anthem that tackles a relatable theme: growing older and the inevitable decline in youthful prowess. The song, co-written by Keith and Scotty Emerick, became a signature tune for the artist, showcasing his signature blend of humor and honesty.
The song paints a picture of a middle-aged man, likely sitting in a bar, confronting his fading glory days. Faced with situations that would have been a breeze in his youth – charming twins or a bar brawl – the narrator acknowledges, “I ain’t as good as I once was.” However, the song isn’t a lament. The key line, “I’m as good as I once was, as good as I ever was,” injects a dose of self-deprecating humor and quiet pride. He may not be the same as he once was, but he still holds onto his core values and can rise to the challenge when needed.
The music video, directed by Michael Salomon, mirrors the song’s narrative. Keith encounters a pair of flirty twins and then gets pulled into helping his friend Dave, who’s gotten himself into trouble. The video ends with Keith sporting a broken nose and an IV drip in an ambulance, a humorous consequence of his attempt to recapture his younger self.
Critical reception for the song was generally positive. Reviewers praised it for its relatable theme and Keith’s characteristic charm. Some saw it as a lighthearted exploration of aging, while others found it a more rueful reflection on the limitations of time. Regardless of interpretation, “As Good As I Once Was” resonated with audiences, becoming one of Keith’s most successful songs.
The song’s popularity transcended its initial release. Following Toby Keith’s passing in February 2024, “As Good As I Once Was” re-entered the charts, a testament to its enduring appeal. The song not only captured the experience of aging with a wink and a smile, but also solidified Toby Keith’s place as a country music legend who wasn’t afraid to keep it real.
Video
Lyrics
She said I seen you in here before
I said I been here a time or two
She said “Hello my name is Bobby Jo,
Meet my twin sister Betty Lou
And we’re both feelin’ kinda wild tonight
You’re the only cowboy in this place
And if you’re up for a rodeo
I’ll put a big Texas smile on your face”
I said “Girls…”
I ain’t as good as I once was
I got a few years on me now
But there was a time, back in my prime
When I could really lay it down
If you need some love tonight
Then I might have just enough
I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
I still hang out with my best friend Dave
I’ve known him since we were kids at school
Last night he had a few shots, got in a tight spot
Hustlin’ a game of pool
With a couple of redneck boys
One great big fat biker man
I heard David yell across the room
“Hey buddy, how ’bout a helpin’ hand”
I said “Dave…”
I ain’t as good as I once was
My how the years have flown
But there was a time, back in my prime
When I could really hold my own
If you want to fight tonight
Guess them boys don’t look all that tough
I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
I used to be hell on wheels
Back when I was a younger man
Now my body says “You can’t do this boy”
But my pride says “Oh yes, you can”
I ain’t as good as I once was
That’s just the cold hard truth
I still throw a few back, talk a little smack
When I’m feelin’ bullet proof
So don’t double-dog dare me now
‘Cause I’d have to call your bluff
I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
May not be good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
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