About the song
Ah, Toby Keith. The name itself conjures images of dusty boots, sun-baked fields, and a certain rugged, American spirit. In his long and successful career, Keith delivered countless anthems that resonated with a generation. But among these, “As Good As I Once Was,” released in 2005, holds a special place. It’s a song that transcends the boundaries of country music, speaking to a universal human experience: the bittersweet passage of time and the ever-present tug-of-war between youthful bravado and the realities of aging.
This track, co-written by Keith and Scotty Emerick, isn’t a lament about lost youth. It’s a sly wink, a playful acceptance of the changing tides. We meet our narrator, a man clearly past his prime, reminiscing in a smoky barroom. He’s no longer the “hell on wheels” he once was, but there’s a spark in his eye—a glint of defiance that suggests the old dog still has some fight left in him.
The song’s brilliance lies in its relatable narrative. Keith masterfully crafts a scenario where our protagonist is presented with two classic tests of masculinity: a proposition from a pair of attractive twins and a barroom brawl coming to his friend’s defense. These situations, while humorous, serve a deeper purpose. They allow the protagonist to confront his limitations head-on, all while reminding himself (and us) that the spirit of adventure and the will to rise to a challenge can endure regardless of age.
“As Good As I Once Was” isn’t afraid to poke fun at itself. The music video, directed by Michael Salomon, is a hilarious visual accompaniment to the song’s themes. It features Keith, looking a little worse for wear after a night of (questionable) decisions, sporting a broken nose and an IV drip. It’s a lighthearted counterpoint to the song’s underlying message, reminding us not to take ourselves too seriously.
The song’s critical reception was strong. While some saw it as a humorous take on aging, others recognized its deeper message of resilience and self-acceptance. It became a chart-topper, cementing its place as one of Keith’s most iconic songs.
Recently, following Toby Keith’s passing in 2024, “As Good As I Once Was” re-entered the charts, a testament to its enduring appeal. It’s a song that reminds us that while time may take its toll, the spirit of a good barroom brawl and the twinkle in an aging cowboy’s eye can remain timeless. So, grab a beer, crank up the volume, and let Toby Keith remind you that sometimes, all it takes is a little self-deprecating humor and a defiant spirit to keep on rocking, even when you’re not quite “as good as you once was.”
Video
Lyrics
She said I seen you in here before
I said I been here a time or two
She said “Hello my name is Bobby Jo,
Meet my twin sister Betty Lou
And we’re both feelin’ kinda wild tonight
You’re the only cowboy in this place
And if you’re up for a rodeo
I’ll put a big Texas smile on your face”
I said “Girls…”
I ain’t as good as I once was
I got a few years on me now
But there was a time, back in my prime
When I could really lay it down
If you need some love tonight
Then I might have just enough
I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
I still hang out with my best friend Dave
I’ve known him since we were kids at school
Last night he had a few shots, got in a tight spot
Hustlin’ a game of pool
With a couple of redneck boys
One great big fat biker man
I heard David yell across the room
“Hey buddy, how ’bout a helpin’ hand”
I said “Dave…”
I ain’t as good as I once was
My how the years have flown
But there was a time, back in my prime
When I could really hold my own
If you want to fight tonight
Guess them boys don’t look all that tough
I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
I used to be hell on wheels
Back when I was a younger man
Now my body says “You can’t do this boy”
But my pride says “Oh yes, you can”
I ain’t as good as I once was
That’s just the cold hard truth
I still throw a few back, talk a little smack
When I’m feelin’ bullet proof
So don’t double-dog dare me now
‘Cause I’d have to call your bluff
I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
May not be good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was