Introduction:
Released in 1999 as the second single from the album of the same name, How Do You Like Me Now?! quickly became an anthem in the country music world. The song, co-written by Keith and Chuck Cannon, established Toby Keith as a major force in the genre, thanks in part to its braggadocious lyrics and a catchy chorus that lingers long after listening.
How Do You Like Me Now?! tells the story of a young man from a small town who leaves his community after facing ridicule and doubt from those around him. The song doesn’t delve into the specifics of why he is underestimated, but it implies that his dreams and ambitions are not taken seriously by the people he knows. He ventures out into the world, presumably to a big city, and finds success there. The song picks back up with him returning to his hometown, a wealthy and accomplished man. He confronts those who doubted him, asking the titular question How Do You Like Me Now?!
The bravado of the song is evident not just in the lyrics, but in the musical arrangement as well. The track features a driving beat** and electric guitar riffs** that create a sense of confidence and swagger. While the song celebrates the protagonist’s success, it also touches on the bittersweet aspect of achieving his dreams after facing negativity from his hometown.
How Do You Like Me Now?! was a massive commercial success for Toby Keith. The song reached number one** on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and achieved platinum certification** by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), indicating sales of over one million units. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, and it remains a staple on country radio and a favorite at live performances. How Do You Like Me Now?! solidified Toby Keith’s status as a country music superstar and helped pave the way for future country artists who embraced a more outspoken and confident style.
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Lyrics:
Yeah, I was always the crazy one broke into the stadiumAnd I wrote your number on the 50-yard lineYou were always the perfect one and a valedictorianSo under your number I wrote “Call for a good time”I only wanted to get your attentionBut you overlooked me somehowBesides, you had too many boyfriends to mentionAnd I played my guitar too loudHow do you like me now?How do you like me now?Now that I’m on my wayDo you still think I’m crazy standing here today?I couldn’t make you love me but I always dreamed about livin’ in your radioHow do you like me now?When I took off to TennesseeI heard that you made fun of meNever imagined I’d make it this farThen you married into the money girlAin’t it a cruel and funny world?He took your dreams, and he tore them apartHe never comes home, and you’re always aloneAnd your kids hear you cry down the hallAlarm clock starts ringin’ who could that be singin’It’s me baby, with your wake-up callHow do you like me now?How do you like me now?Now that I’m on my wayDo you still think I’m crazy standing here today?I couldn’t make you love me but I always dreamed about living in your radioHow do like me now? YeahHow do you like me now?Now that I’m on my wayDo you still think I’m crazy standing here today?I couldn’t make you love me but I always dreamed about living in your radioHow do you like me now?Tell me, babyI will preach on