Introduction:
Keith, a seasoned musician by the time Tired hit the airwaves, had already carved a niche for himself within the country music scene. Known for his no-nonsense attitude and lyrics that resonated with working-class America, he wasn’t afraid to tackle themes that resonated with the everyday listener. Tired is a prime example of this.
Now, this song wasn’t exactly a chart-topping juggernaut. But what it lacked in immediate commercial success, it made up for in staying power. Tired became an anthem for those weary souls who toiled long hours, felt the weight of responsibility, and simply longed for a moment of respite.
The beauty of Tired lies in its simplicity. The instrumentation is classic country – a steady acoustic guitar strumming alongside a melancholic fiddle line. The production, helmed by Keith himself alongside James Stroud, is clean and uncluttered, allowing the raw emotion in Keith’s voice to take center stage.
This brings us to the man himself. Keith’s vocals in Tired are simply phenomenal. He doesn’t resort to histrionics or over-the-top theatrics. Instead, he delivers the lyrics with a weary sincerity that perfectly captures the essence of the song. You can hear the exhaustion in his voice, the yearning for a break, yet a quiet determination to keep pushing on.
Tired wasn’t just a hit with fans; it resonated with critics as well. While awards recognition might not have been plentiful, the song solidified Keith’s reputation as a songwriter who could craft relatable narratives for the common man. It cemented his place as a voice for those who felt unseen and unheard.
Tired may not be the flashiest song in Keith’s catalogue, but it’s a powerful testament to his ability to connect with his audience. It’s a song that lingers long after the final note fades, a reminder of the quiet struggles and simple desires that bind us all. So, if you’re looking for a song that speaks to the exhaustion of the daily grind, the yearning for a moment of peace, then look no further than Tired by Toby Keith.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Tired”
Followed in his footsteps, down here to this factory
I ain’t complainin’, wouldn’t waste my breath to bother
This work ain’t hard, it’s only borin’ as can beMarried Rebecca back in seventy-seven
I still love her and I guess she loves me too
We go to church on Sundays ’cause we want to go to heaven
Me and my family, ain’t that how you’re supposed to doBut I’m tired, Lord I’m tired
Life is wearin’ me smooth down to the bone
No rest for the weary, ya just move on
Tired, Lord I’m tired
I’ve only missed six days in nigh on twenty years o’ work
The money went to taxes and these bills I’ve paid on time
The raise I got two months ago don’t meet the cost o’ living
Selling my body for these nickels and these dimes
The smell of Becky’s coffee rolled me out of bed this morning
I showered and shaved and dressed and pulled my work boots on
Walked in the kitchen, she was starin’ out the window
The way she said good morning made me ask is something wrong
She said I’m tired, woke up tired
Life is wearin’ me smooth down to the bone
No rest for the weary, ya just move on
I guess you just keep goin’ till your gone
Tired, Lord I’m tired
Tired, Lord I’m tired