About the song
“As Good As I Once Was” by Toby Keith isn’t your typical country ballad about heartbreak or loss. Released in 2005 as the second single from his album “Honkytonk University,” the song offers a humorous and relatable look at the realities of aging. It became a chart-topping hit, solidifying Keith’s status as a country music powerhouse. More than just a catchy tune, “As Good As I Once Was” is a tongue-in-cheek celebration of aging with a wink.
The song’s narrator, a man comfortably settled into middle age, finds himself in situations that challenge his sense of masculinity. Keith, with his signature gruff vocals, paints a picture of a barroom encounter with a pair of flirty twins and a subsequent brawl (possibly instigated by his friend Dave) that leaves him worse for wear. The key line, “I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good, once, as I ever was,” perfectly encapsulates the song’s message. It’s a humorous admission that while his youthful prowess may be a thing of the past, his spirit and ability to handle himself haven’t diminished.
The music video, directed by Michael Salomon, complements the song’s lighthearted tone. It features Keith navigating the aforementioned encounters with the twins and the barroom scuffle, all culminating in him leaving the scene in an ambulance, sporting a broken nose. The video’s humor adds another layer to the song’s message, making it clear that Keith isn’t dwelling on lost youth, but rather embracing the (slightly bruised) present.
Critical reception to the song was generally positive. While some saw it as a lament about aging, others, like Matt Bjorke of About.com, praised it as a “fun track” about getting older. Allmusic called the song “wonderfully self-deprecating,” highlighting Keith’s ability to laugh at himself. This ability to connect with listeners through relatable humor is a key part of the song’s enduring appeal.
“As Good As I Once Was” transcended its chart-topping success to become one of Keith’s signature songs. It’s an anthem for those who refuse to let age define them, a reminder that the spirit of adventure and a touch of self-deprecating humor can keep life interesting, no matter your age. So, raise a glass (or two, but maybe not while driving a pool cue!), crank up the volume, and celebrate the joys, and perhaps the occasional bruises, of getting older with Toby Keith’s “As Good As I 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