Released in 2002 as part of his album Pull My Chain, My List is a song that might seem deceptively simple on the surface. Yet, beneath its catchy melody and relatable lyrics lies a poignant reflection on the human tendency to prioritize tasks over cherished relationships.
Background
Keith, known for his gruff vocals and outspoken persona, often injects his music with a dose of realism. My List is no exception. It paints a picture of a man, likely someone familiar to many in Keith’s audience – a hardworking individual, perhaps the head of a household, burdened by the daily grind.
The song opens with a recitation of tasks, a never-ending “list” that dictates the protagonist’s day: fixing the fence, mowing the lawn, and paying the bills. These are the responsibilities that weigh him down, the obligations that leave him feeling like a cog in the machine.
My List transcends the realm of a mere country ballad. It becomes a universal reminder to step back, to prioritize the moments that truly enrich our lives, and to cherish the relationships that sustain us. Songs about the struggles of blue-collar workers and the sacrifices they make for their families.
My List wasn’t just a hit song; it resonated with audiences. It reached number two on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and became a staple on country radio stations.
Perhaps its success lies in its ability to capture a common experience – the constant struggle to balance responsibilities with the desire for connection. It’s a song that makes us reflect on our own priorities, reminding us to occasionally take a break from our never-ending lists and simply live.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Go for a walk, say a little prayerTake a deep breath of mountain airPut on my glove and play some catchIt’s time that I make time for thatWade the shore and cast a lineLook up an old lost friend of mineSit on the porch and give my girl a kissStart livin’, that’s the next thing on my listWouldn’t change the course of fateThe cutting the grass just had to wait‘Cause I’ve got more important thingsLike pushin’ my kid on the backyard swing
Harley