Toby Keith – God Love Her

Introduction:

In the vast landscape of country music, with its tales of heartbreak, small-town life, and unwavering patriotism, Toby Keith carved a niche for himself. Known for his outspoken personality and his unapologetic embrace of American values, Keith has consistently delivered chart-topping hits that resonate with a dedicated audience. Released in November 2008, “God Love Her” became a significant addition to his discography, showcasing a unique blend of Southern charm and a touch of rebellion.

“God Love Her” emerged as the second single from Keith’s studio album, That Don’t Make Me a Bad Guy, released earlier in 2008. The album itself became a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and solidifying Keith’s position as a country music mainstay. While the album explored various themes close to Keith’s heart, “God Love Her” stood out for its portrayal of a love story with an unexpected twist.

The song, co-written by Keith himself, doesn’t shy away from portraying a love that defies convention. The lyrics, though not explicitly revealed here, paint a picture of the narrator’s fascination with a woman who, despite being the preacher’s daughter, possesses a rebellious streak. The imagery of being “baptized in dirty water” hints at her independent spirit, a stark contrast to the religious background she comes from.

Musically, “God Love Her” departs slightly from Keith’s typical hard-driving country sound. Accompanied by a moderate up-tempo electric guitar, the song retains a country foundation but injects a touch of rock influence. This creates a dynamic backdrop for the story to unfold, reflecting the contrasting personalities of the characters.

“God Love Her” wasn’t a chart-topping juggernaut like some of Keith’s other hits, but it garnered a loyal following among fans. The song resonated with those who appreciated a love story that transcended societal expectations. It showcased Keith’s ability to explore themes of love and rebellion within the framework of country music, further solidifying his reputation as an artist who wasn’t afraid to push boundaries.

Video:

Lyrics:

Just a girl born in Dixie
Washed in the blood
And raised on the banks
Of the Mississippi mud
She always had a thing
About fallin’ in love with a bad boy

Yea, they could see it all comin’
But her daddy never dreamed
She’d grow up that fast
You know what I mean
The way a girl gets
When she turns 17
Kinda crazy

She’s a rebel child
And a preacher’s daughter
She was baptized in dirty water
Her mama cried the first time
They caught her with me
They knew they couldn’t stop her

She holds tight to me and the Bible
On the back seat of my motorcycle
Left her daddy standin’ there
Preachin’ to the choir
You see…God love her

Oh me and God love her

She kissed her mama goodbye
Said I’ll be sure ‘n phone ya
She called from a truck stop
In Tucson Arizona
With amazing grace
We made California alive
And then my gypsy life
Started takin’ it’s toll
And the fast lane got empty
And out of control
And just like an angel
She saved my soul from the devil

Yea she’s a rebel child
And a preacher’s daughter
She was baptized in dirty water
Her mama cried the first time
They caught her with me
They knew they couldn’t stop her

She holds tight to me and the Bible
On the back seat of my motorcycle
Left her daddy standin’ there
Preachin’ to the choir
You see….God love her
Oh me and God love her

Now she holds tight to me and the Bible
On the back seat of my motorcycle
Left her daddy standin’ there
Preachin’ to the choir
You see…God love her
Oh me and God love her
God love her
Me and God love her