Introduction:
Who’s That Man, a pioneering song in launching Toby Keith’s country music career, was released in July 1994 as the lead single for his studio album Boomtown. This energetic, country two-step established Keith as a rising star within the genre, showcasing his signature baritone vocals and a relatable lyrical style.
Who’s That Man was written solely by Keith himself, demonstrating his early talent for crafting catchy melodies and insightful lyrics. Production duties were shared by Nelson Larkin and Harold Shedd, two industry veterans who helped shape the polished sound of the track. Who’s That Man quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart (now known as Hot Country Songs) in October of 1994. This marked Keith’s second number one hit, solidifying his place among the top country music artists of the era.
The song’s success wasn’t limited to the country charts. Who’s That Man also achieved crossover appeal, finding a wider audience across genres. The track charted on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching a respectable position, demonstrating Keith’s ability to resonate with a broader range of listeners.
Who’s That Man is more than just a chart-topping hit; it played a pivotal role in establishing Toby Keith’s musical identity. The song introduced themes that would become hallmarks of his career, including working-class pride, patriotism, and a rebellious spirit. Who’s That Man laid the groundwork for a string of future successes and cemented Toby Keith’s status as a major force in country music for decades to come.
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Lyrics:
Turn left at the old hotelI know this boulevard much too wellIt hasn’t changed since I’ve been goneOh, this used to be my way homeThey paved the road through the neighborhoodI guess the county finally fixed it goodIt was gettin’ roughSomeone finally complained enoughFight the tears back with a smileStop and look for a little whileOh, it’s plain to seeThe only thing missing is meThat’s my house and that’s my carThat’s my dog in my backyardThere’s the window to the roomWhere she lays her pretty headI planted that tree out by the fenceNot long after we moved inThere’s my kids and that’s my wifeBut who’s that man running my life?If I pulled in would it cause a scene?They’re not really expecting meThose kids have been through hellI hear they’ve adjusted wellTurn around in the neighbor’s driveI’d be hard to recognizeIn this pickup truckIt’s just an old fixer upDrive away one more timeA lot of things runnin’ through my mindI guess the less things changeThe more they never seem the sameThat’s my house and that’s my carThat’s my dog in my backyardThere’s the window to the roomWhere she lays her pretty headI planted that tree out by the fenceNot long after we moved inThere’s my kids and that’s my wifeBut who’s that man running my life?Yeah, that’s my house and that’s my carThat’s my dog in my backyardThere’s the window to the roomWhere she lays her pretty headI planted that tree out by the fenceNot long after we moved inThere’s my kids and that’s my wifeBut who’s that man running my life?Who’s that man running my life?(Who’s that man?)(Who’s that man?) Who’s that man running my life?(Who’s that man?) Hmm-mm(Who’s that man?) Who’s that man running my life?(Who’s that man?)(Who’s that man?)