Introduction:
Country music icon Toby Keith released a song in 2001 that captured the experience of many men dragged along to lingerie stores by their significant others. Titled “Victoria’s Secret”, the song became a chart-topping hit and a humorous look at a situation most men could relate to.
Keith, known for his rebellious streak and working-class persona, took the reins not only as the singer but also as a co-writer for the track. He collaborated with Scotty Emerick and a rising star in the country music world at the time, Chris Stapleton, to craft the lyrics. Keith also donned the producer’s hat for “Victoria’s Secret”, giving him full creative control over the project.
The song tells the story from the perspective of a man who finds himself reluctantly at a Victoria’s Secret store. The lyrics paint a picture of his confusion amidst the lacy garments and the seemingly endless rows of lingerie. The playful tone highlights the awkwardness he feels, contrasted with the seriousness his partner places on selecting the perfect outfit.
“Victoria’s Secret” was a massive success. It reached the top spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles and Tracks chart, solidifying Keith’s status as a country music powerhouse. The song’s reach extended beyond the genre, landing at number 14 on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing its crossover appeal. The critical reception was positive as well, with the song earning a nomination for the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 2002.
“Victoria’s Secret” remains a staple in Toby Keith’s catalogue. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its relatable theme and Keith’s ability to turn an everyday situation into a humorous country anthem. It captured a specific experience with a wink and a nudge, proving that even the most macho of men can find themselves a little lost in the world of lingerie.
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Lyrics:
Word sure gets around in a tattle tale townThat why she never goes out at nightBut when her kids go to school and her husband’s gone tooShe gets in her car and she drivesTo a little motel on the outskirts of townPuts on her perfume and turns the bed downAnd I’m the only one who knows Victoria’s secretHer husband’s always working and he’s never homeWhen he’s there with her he’s still goneAnd she can’t stand living and loving aloneWell she’s got her children to raise, that’s why she can’t let it showI’m the only one who knows Victoria’s secretIt’s PTA meetings, warm social greetingsA woman’s work never gets doneIt’s church Sunday, it starts again MondaySeems she’s always on the runAnd she gets so lonely it tears her in twoThat’s when she does what a woman must doAnd I’m the only one who knows Victoria’s secretHer husband’s always working and he’s never homeWhen he’s there with her he’s still goneAnd she can’t stand living and loving aloneWell she’s got her children to raise, that’s why she can’t let it showI’m the only one who knows Victoria’s secretAh she’s got her children to raise that’s why she can’t let it showI’m the only one who knows Victoria’s secretYeah I’m the only one who knows Victoria’s secret