Toby Keith – The Size I Wear

Toby Keith’s “The Size I Wear”: A Deep Dive into Americana

Toby Keith’s “The Size I Wear” is more than just a catchy country tune; it’s a cultural artifact that encapsulates a specific moment in American music and society. Released in 2012 on his album Hope on the Rocks, the song rapidly climbed the charts, becoming a signature anthem for Keith’s devoted fanbase.

Background

At its core, “The Size I Wear” is a celebration of individuality and personal preference. With a characteristic blend of bravado and self-deprecating humor, Keith playfully asserts his taste in women, challenging societal norms and expectations.

This defiance of conventional wisdom is a recurring theme in Keith’s music, as he frequently champions the underdog and the everyday man. The song’s lyrics, simple yet undeniably catchy, resonate with a broad audience due to their directness and relatable nature.

Musically, the track adheres to a classic country formula, featuring a driving rhythm section, twangy guitar riffs, and Keith’s distinctive vocal delivery. The production is clean and uncluttered, allowing the lyrics and melody to shine. This stripped-down approach reinforces the song’s authenticity and aligns with Keith’s image as a no-frills, down-to-earth artist.

However, the song’s celebration of individuality comes with a caveat. The lyrics, while undeniably catchy, also reflect a particular era of country music and broader cultural attitudes. The overtly masculine and objectifying tone has drawn criticism, sparking debates about the role of gender and sexuality in popular music. It’s essential to acknowledge these criticisms and to view the song within its historical and cultural context.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

She was five foot two, about ninety-five pounds
She was round in the places she’s supposed to be round
You can take that waitress or the blonde over there
But stand back John, that’s the size I wear

Hey!

In a neighborhood bar not too far from here
Me and old John, we were chucking some beers
Friday night about a half past ten
When a flock of secretaries came strutting in

The one in the front was a little too tall
The one in the back, she was flat as a wall
But the one in the middle, as cute as could be
The one in the middle was looking at me

Yes, she was five foot two, about 95 pounds
She was round in the places she’s supposed to be round
Now you can take the waitress or the blonde over there
But stand back John, that’s the size I wear

I said “do you wanna dance, ” she said “yes I do”
We did the two-step shuffle and the Jitterbug too
Now John didn’t like it but he was being a friend
He danced with this one and that one and this one again

A slow song came on, we were locked down tight
John said “hey buddy, you can’t hog her all night”
Well you’re a mighty big fella but I don’t care
Stand back John, that’s the size I wear

She was five foot two, about 95 pounds
Round in the places she’s supposed to be round
Now you can take the waitress or the blonde over there
But stand back John, that’s the size I wear

Now she was five foot two, about 95 pounds
She was round in the places she’s supposed to be round
Now you can take the waitress or the blonde over there
But stand back John, that’s the size I wear

Hey you’re a mighty big fella but I don’t care
Stand back John, that’s the size I wear

Stand over there John, I’ll be done in just a minute