Toby Keith – Honkytonk U

Toby Keith, the name itself conjures images of American flags, working-class pride, and a voice that’s as rough and polished as a well-worn pair of cowboy boots. In his 2005 anthem, Honkytonk U, Keith takes us on a journey through his own personal school of hard knocks – a place where the lessons are learned amidst the smoky haze of dive bars, the twang of guitars, and the rhythm of everyday life.

Background

Honkytonk U wasn’t just a song; it was the title track for Keith’s ninth studio album, released in 2005. This marked a significant point in his career.

Having established himself as a major force in country music throughout the 1990s, with hits like “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and “Achy Breaky Heart,” Keith was now a seasoned artist with a loyal following.

Honkytonk U was a critical and commercial success, reaching number 8 on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and becoming a fan favorite. It perfectly encapsulated Toby Keith’s persona – a self-made man who found his voice and his purpose amidst the grit and authenticity of the honkytonk world.

So, the next time you find yourself in a dusty bar with the music cranked up, take a moment to appreciate the unexpected wisdom that might be emanating from the stage – a crash course in life, courtesy of Honkytonk U.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

My grandmother owned a night club
On the Arkansas-Oklahoma line
Mama put me on a Greyhound
And I went to stay with her in the summertime
I’d box up those empty long necks
And stack ’em in the back and make a hand
Then at night she’d let me sneak out
Of the kitchen and sit in with the band

Yes, I have sacked some quarterbacks
And broke my share of bones along the way
I knew it wouldn’t last forever
Semi-pro always means semi-paid
I started climbing drilling rigs
I’m oil field trash and proud as I can be, yeah
Then I took my songs and guitar
And sang ’em to a man from Tennessee

I’ve played every beer joint tavern
From New York City out to Pasadena
Every corn dog fair and rodeo
And sold out every basketball arena
Like to get down with my boys
In Afghanistan and Baghdad city too
I am a red, white and blue blood
Graduate of honky-tonk U