Introduction:
In June 2021, country music icon Toby Keith released a new single titled “Old School”. The track marked a return to the traditional country sound that Keith is known for, after a period of exploring more rock-influenced styles in his previous albums.
“Old School” wasn’t written by Keith himself, but instead came from the pens of a new generation of country music songwriters: Maren Morris and Ryan Hurd. This collaboration between established veteran and rising stars generated a song that cemented Keith’s place as a timeless voice of the genre.
Musically, “Old School” is a classic country anthem. The song features a prominent steel guitar line, a driving drumbeat, and Keith’s signature baritone vocals. The lyrics celebrate the simple pleasures of life, from spending time with loved ones to enjoying the beauty of nature. The song also takes a subtle jab at the modern world’s obsession with technology, highlighting the value of traditional values and ways of living.
Produced by Kenny Greenberg alongside Keith himself, “Old School” became a hit with fans who yearned for Keith’s return to his country roots. The song received positive reviews from music critics, who praised its catchy melody and nostalgic charm. While it didn’t top the charts, “Old School” did resonate with a dedicated audience, earning a respectable place on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
More importantly, “Old School” served as a reminder of Toby Keith’s enduring legacy in country music. The song showcased his ability to connect with audiences across generations, celebrating the genre’s rich history while remaining fresh and relevant.
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Lyrics:
Yeah, back in the high school, yeah they’re so coolLetterman jackets in the parking lotDraggin’ on a Camel light, back behind the Five and DimePrayin’ that they never get caughtEverybody’s gonna fish fry Saturday night‘Cause if you call one, gotta call ’em allCruisin’ down the main street, drivin’ through the Dairy QueenAin’t got a Walmart, ain’t got a mallWe’re old school, small town stickin’ aroundJust like folks used to, good ol’ boys and girlsJust fallin’ in love, livin’ the life, yeahMiddle of nowhere feels about rightKeepin’ it old school, just the way we likeMarried by 19, two pawn shop ringsAin’t a big city, but it sure is niceBlue collar, six-pack, work hard, laid backSittin’ on the front porch, drop on byPickin’ on a six-string, livin’ on a shoestringAin’t got much, but we don’t careNeedle on a record don’t get any betterLike, “Whoa baby, we’re halfway there”We’re old school, small town stickin’ aroundJust like folks used to, good ol’ boys and girlsJust fallin’ in love, livin’ the life, yeahMiddle of nowhere feels about rightKeepin’ it old school, just the way we likeEverybody say old school, small town stickin’ aroundJust like folks used to, good ol’ boys and girlsJust fallin’ in love, livin’ the life, yeahMiddle of nowhere feels about rightKeepin’ it old school, just the way we likeYeah, we’re kickin’ it old school, it’s a small town stickin’ aroundJust like folks used to, good ol’ boys and girlsJust fallin’ in love, livin’ the life, yeahMiddle of nowhere feels about rightKeepin’ it old school, just the way we likeOld schoolOld school