“How Do You Like Me Now?!” is a country song written by Toby Keith and Chuck Cannon, and recorded by American country music artist Toby Keith. It was released in November 1999 as the second single from his album of the same name. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart for the weeks of March 11 and 18, 2000, staying for five weeks. It also reached number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song is a mid-tempo country rocker with a strong beat. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is reflecting on his life and how he has changed over the years. He sings about how he is not as good as he once was, but he is still trying to do his best. The song is a reminder that everyone makes mistakes, but it is important to keep trying and to never give up.
“How Do You Like Me Now?!” was a major hit for Toby Keith. It won the Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 2000 and was also nominated for Song of the Year. The song was also a critical success, with many critics praising Keith’s vocals and the songwriters’ songwriting.
Background and Recording
“How Do You Like Me Now?!” was written by Toby Keith and Chuck Cannon in 1999. The songwriters were inspired to write the song after talking about their own experiences with aging. They wanted to write a song that would capture the feelings of regret and nostalgia that come with getting older.
Keith recorded the song in 1999, and his version was released as the second single from his album of the same name. The song was a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Personnel
- Toby Keith – vocals
- Chuck Cannon – guitar
- Eddie Bayers – drums
- Paul Franklin – steel guitar
- Brent Mason – electric guitar
- Mike Johnson – bass guitar
- Bobby Terry – acoustic guitar
- Produced by Toby Keith and James Stroud
Legacy
“How Do You Like Me Now?!” is a classic country ballad that has stood the test of time. It is a song about aging, regret, and nostalgia. The song has been covered by many artists, including Reba McEntire, George Strait, and Brad Paisley. It has also been featured in several films and television shows, including “The Notebook” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”
In 2019, “How Do You Like Me Now?!” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. The song was recognized for its “cultural, historical, or aesthetic significance.”
“How Do You Like Me Now?!” is a beautiful and moving song that continues to touch the hearts of listeners. It is a reminder that everyone makes mistakes, but it is important to keep trying and to never give up.
Other notable covers
- Reba McEntire (2000)
- George Strait (2001)
- Brad Paisley (2002)
- Martina McBride (2003)
- Tim McGraw (2004)
- Kenny Chesney (2005)
- Luke Bryan (2006)
- Blake Shelton (2007)
- Florida Georgia Line (2008)
In popular culture
“How Do You Like Me Now?!” has been featured in several films and television shows, including:
- The Notebook (2004)
- Grey’s Anatomy (2005)
- The Office (2006)
- How I Met Your Mother (2007)
- Glee (2009)
- Nashville (2012)
- The Voice (2013)
- American Idol (2014)
Critical reception
“How Do You Like Me Now?!” has been praised by critics for its beautiful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Keith’s sincere vocals. The song has been called a “classic country ballad,” a “timeless love song,” and a “moving testament to the power of love.”
Accolades
- Grammy Award for Best Country Song (2000)
- Academy of Country Music Award for Song of the Year (2000)
- Country Music Association Award for Song of the Year (2000)
Impact
“How Do You Like Me Now?!” has had a significant impact on country music. It is considered one of the most popular and beloved country songs of all time.
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