That’S Not How It Is – Toby Keith

Introduction:

“That’s Not How It Is” by Toby Keith, released in 2002 on his album Unleashed, is a poignant country ballad that explores the emotional complexities of a deteriorating relationship. Known for his assertive and often patriotic themes, Keith shows a softer side with this track, focusing on heartbreak, disconnection, and longing. In the song, the protagonist reflects on how the love they once shared has faded, leaving behind a painful void. This emotional depth resonated with many fans, as it captures the challenges of maintaining intimacy in strained relationships.

Produced by James Stroud, a frequent collaborator of Keith’s, the song’s production is minimal, allowing the raw emotions in Keith’s vocals to take center stage. The simplicity of the arrangement complements the heartfelt lyrics, making the song both relatable and impactful.

Although not one of Keith’s most commercially prominent hits, “That’s Not How It Is” earned a place in his repertoire as a reflective, emotionally charged piece. Its enduring appeal lies in the universality of its theme—love lost and the difficulty of communication in relationships, a theme that resonates with many listeners.

Video:

Lyrics:

“That’s Not How It Is”

I woke up in bed last night when something came upon me
I was not lying there alone but I’ve never felt so lonely
Something’s come between us, girl feels like we’ve hit a wall
How can I know just how you feel when we don’t touch at allThis no communication thing is quickly growing old
This isolation booth I’m in is dark and turning cold
I used to steal your breath away with just one little kiss
Me and you, we were so in love back then, but that’s not how it is

I’d catch moonlight in a bottle if we could drink a toast to happiness
Fill my pickup bed with roses and back it right up to your door
I’d write your name in candy kisses from here to Carolina
If you change your mind and love me like before, but that’s not how it is

I have tossed and turned and rolled it over in my mind
Not knowing all the questions make the answers hard to find
I think I’ve covered everything, but still there’s something that I’ve missed
I used to read you, baby, like a book, but that’s not how it is

I’d catch moonlight in a bottle if we could drink a toast to happiness
Fill my pickup bed with roses and back it right up to your door
Write your name in candy kisses from here to Carolina
If you change your mind and love me like before, but that’s not how it is

You know I’d write your name in candy kisses from here to Carolina
If you change your mind and love me like before, but that’s not how it is

Oh, no, that’s not how it is
I woke up in bed last night when something came upon me
And I’ve never been so lonely
That’s not how it is