About the song
“My List” is a poignant and thought-provoking country music ballad written by Tim James and Rand Bishop, and recorded by the renowned American country music artist Toby Keith. Released on January 1, 2002, as the third and final single from Keith’s 2001 album Pull My Chain, the song resonated deeply with listeners and critics alike, reaching the top spot on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and staying there for five consecutive weeks. Additionally, it peaked at number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying its place as a standout track in Keith’s impressive discography.
The song’s narrative revolves around a man who has a daily to-do list, prioritizing tasks and responsibilities over personal desires. However, as the song progresses, he begins to reevaluate his priorities, ultimately deciding to put his family first. The lyrics are a powerful commentary on the importance of relationships and the need to balance work and personal life. The song’s message is both relatable and timely, striking a chord with listeners who have ever felt the weight of responsibility and the longing for meaningful connections.
The music video for “My List” was filmed in Ridgetop, Tennessee, in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. The video begins with a husband and wife watching the news, and ends with the husband, a fireman, suiting up to respond to an emergency. The video premiered on CMT on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2002, and features Keith himself portraying a fireman riding to the fire station. The song has also made appearances in various media, including a season eight episode of the popular TV show Touched by an Angel, in which Keith guest-starred and performed the song. With its powerful message, soaring melody, and memorable music video, “My List” remains a beloved and enduring country music classic.
Video
Lyrics
Under an old brass paperweight
Is my list of things to do today
Go to the bank and the hardware store
Put a new lock on the cellar door
I cross ’em off as I get ’em done
But when the sun is settled
There’s still more than a few things left
I haven’t got to yet
Go for a walk, say a little prayer
Take a deep breath of mountain air
Put on my glove and play some catch
It’s time that I make time for that
Wade the shore and cast a line
Look up an old lost friend of mine
Sit on the porch and give my girl a kiss
Start livin’, that’s the next thing on my list
Wouldn’t change the course of fate
The cutting the grass just had to wait
‘Cause I’ve got more important things
Like pushin’ my kid on the backyard swing
I won’t break my back for a million bucks
I can’t take to my grave
So why put off for tomorrow
What I could get done today
Like go for a walk, say a little prayer
Take a deep breath of mountain air
Put on my glove and play some catch
It’s time that I make time for that
Wade the shore, cast a line
Look up an old lost friend of mine
Sit on the porch and give my girl a kiss
Start livin’, that’s the next thing on my list
Raise a little hell, laugh ’til it hurts
Put an extra five in the plate at church
Call up my folks just to chat
It’s time that I make time for that
Stay up late, and oversleep
Show her what she means to me
Catch up on all the things I’ve always missed
Just start livin’, that’s the next thing on my list
Under an old brass paperweight
Is my list of things to do today