About the song
In June 2011, Toby Keith, a country music powerhouse known for his patriotic anthems, released “Made in America” as the lead single for his album “Clancy’s Tavern.” This energetic song, co-written by Keith alongside Bobby Pinson and Scott Reeves, offers a glimpse into the heartland of America through the eyes of a dedicated group – a veteran Marine, his schoolteacher wife, and an older farmer (revealed to be Keith’s own father).
The song’s inspiration stemmed from a conversation between Pinson and Reeves about supporting American-made products. Recognizing the potential for a powerful message, Pinson brought the unfinished song to Keith, who then helped shape it into the final version.
“Made in America” isn’t just another generic patriotic ballad from Keith. It tackles a specific concern – the influx of foreign goods – through the lens of everyday Americans. The lyrics paint a picture of a generation deeply invested in the idea of American-made quality, exemplified by the farmer’s disdain for anything but US-grown cotton and the wife’s unwavering loyalty to American products.
Critical reception for the song was mixed. While some, like Billy Dukes of Taste of Country, praised Keith’s passionate delivery, they felt the lyrics lacked the depth of his previous hits. Others, like Matt Bjorke of Roughstock, appreciated the song’s structure and strong lyrical content despite its “list song” format. Regardless of critical opinion, the song resonated with audiences, propelling it to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Keith – his twentieth and final number one single during his lifetime.
The accompanying music video, filmed in Wisconsin during an Independence Day parade and Keith’s Summerfest performance, further solidified the song’s connection to American pride. Directed by Michael Salomon, the visuals mirrored the song’s message, celebrating American spirit and tradition.
“Made in America” stands as a testament to Toby Keith’s ability to capture the essence of American values. It’s a song that sparks conversations about national identity, economic choices, and the enduring spirit of a nation built on self-reliance. Whether you agree with its message entirely or not, “Made in America” undeniably offers a window into a specific American perspective, making it a noteworthy addition to Keith’s already impressive discography.
Video
Lyrics
My old man’s that old man,
Spent his life livin’ off the land,
Dirty hands, and a clean soul.
It breaks his heart seein’ foreign cars,
Filled with fuel that isn’t ours
And wearin’ cotton we didn’t growHe’s got the red, white, and blue flyin’ high on the farm
“Semper Fi” tattooed on his left arm
Spend a little more in the store for a tag in the back that says ‘USA’
He won’t buy nothin’ that he can’t fix,
With WD-40 and a Craftsman wrench
He ain’t prejudiced, he’s just made in AmericaHe loves his wife and she’s that wife
That decorates on the Fourth of July
But says ‘Every day’s Independence Day’
She’s golden rule, teaches school,
Some folks say it isn’t cool
But she says the Pledge of Allegiance anyway.He’s got the red, white, and blue flyin’ high on the farm
“Semper Fi” tattooed on his left arm
Spend a little more in the store for a tag in the back that says ‘USA’
He won’t buy nothin’ that he can’t fix,
With WD-40 and a Craftsman wrench
He ain’t prejudiced, he’s just made in AmericaBorn in the Heartland, raised up a family
Of King James and Uncle SamHe’s got the red, white, and blue flyin’ high on the farm
“Semper Fi” tattooed on his left arm
Spend a little more in the store for a tag in the back that says ‘USA’
He won’t buy nothin’ that he can’t fix,
With WD-40 and a Craftsman wrench
He ain’t prejudiced, he’s just made in America
Made in America
Made in AmericaMy old man’s that old man,
Made in America