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Introduction:

“Tryin’ to Matter” by Toby Keith is an introspective ballad from his 2001 album Pull My Chain, an album that demonstrated Keith’s versatility beyond his often boisterous and patriotic image. This song is a contemplative departure, delving into themes of loneliness, unfulfilled ambitions, and the search for meaning. Keith’s lyrics reveal a character grappling with a monotonous life, feeling disconnected despite his seemingly stable existence. The verses express an emotional struggle, highlighting the contrast between external success and internal voids, as the narrator admits to feeling like he’s “a lonely man with a lonely life.”

The song’s melancholy tone and raw lyrics reflect a universal yearning for significance—a theme that resonated with listeners. Although “Tryin’ to Matter” wasn’t a major commercial hit, its relatability struck a chord with fans who appreciated seeing a more vulnerable side of Keith. The track offered a quieter perspective within the country music genre, touching on the human need to feel important and connected, even amid life’s mundane routines.

“Tryin’ to Matter” is emblematic of Keith’s ability to balance different aspects of his artistry, from high-energy tracks to songs that explore deeper emotions. This song stands out as a reflective piece in his discography, showing Keith’s sensitivity to life’s struggles and reminding listeners of the quieter battles many face every day.

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Lyrics:

“Tryin’ To Matter”

I’m a lonely man with a lonely life
A full-time job and part-time wife
And the grindstone just goes on and on
You’re a lonely girl that’s a lonely wife
Gotta three bedroom and an empty life
And you’re not quite sure
Just where it all went wrong
There are lots of reasons why we should turn and walk away
But there’s a whole lot ridin’ on this love so baby what’s ya sayLet’s give it one good shot
Let’s really give it all we got
We can take it nice and slow
Baby don’t you want to go back
Where we had a chance
And we danced our dance
In a world where a heart could never shatter
We might go down cryin’
But at least our love will die
Tryin’ to matter, tryin’ to matter

We’ve come a long way so don’t forget
let’s don’t throw our hands up yet
We’ve still got time
To change our mind
Honey let’s give it our best tonight
If we still ain’t got it right
We can always, always say goodbye
Somewhere I guess we let go, lost a little ground
One solitary heartbeat can turn this thing around

Let’s give it one good shot
Let’s really give it all we got
We can take it nice and slow
Baby don’t you want to go back
Where we had a chance
And we danced our dance
In a world where a heart could never shatter
We might go down cryin’
But at least our love will die
Tryin’ to matter
We might go down cryin’
At least our love will die
Tryin’ to matter, tryin’ to matter