Introduction:
“No Honor Among Thieves” is a track from Toby Keith’s 1994 album Boomtown, reflecting the rugged themes and storytelling that marked his early career. The song explores the idea of navigating a world where trust is scarce and self-reliance is key, drawing on the adage that even among wrongdoers, there is little loyalty. Its gritty lyrics and robust country instrumentation are characteristic of Keith’s style during this period, emphasizing themes of resilience and survival.
The track complements Boomtown’s broader narrative of life in small-town America and the struggles of ordinary people trying to thrive amidst challenges. With a tough, no-nonsense delivery, Keith captures the essence of a world where survival often demands shrewdness and toughness, resonating with audiences who appreciated his unapologetic perspective.
This song also marked Keith’s growing influence in the mid-’90s country scene, showcasing his ability to blend traditional country sounds with contemporary energy. Its robust sound, combined with Keith’s distinctive vocal style, helped solidify his image as a storyteller unafraid to tackle the grittier aspects of life.
Video:
Lyrics:
“No Honor Among Thieves”
Laws of nature rule this land
Better hide your horses, bury your whiskey
Hold your woman any way you canCause there ain’t no right or wrong, nothing’s carved in stone
It ain’t cheating if you don’t get caught
Jokers laugh and losers grieve
Cause out here there’s no honor among thieves
That woman you’ve been loving, she was another man’s
You stole her heart while his nack was turned
On every corner there’s an outlaw waiting
Who wants to teach you what you never learned
Cause there ain’t no right or wrong, nothing’s carved in stone
It ain’t cheating if you don’t get caught
Jokers laugh and losers grieve
Cause out here there’s no honor among thieves
This world’s a jungle there ain’t no justice
Laws of nature rule this land
So don’t go crying when her love goes flying to
The thieving arms of another man
There ain’t no right or wrong, nothing’s carved in stone
It ain’t cheating if you don’t get caught
Love’s a deck of cards read them and weep
Cause out here there’s no honor among thieves
Yeah
There ain’t no right or wrong
Nothing’s carved in stone