Introduction:
11 Months And 29 Days, a poignant ballad sung by American country music icon Toby Keith, was released in 2003 on his album Shock’n Y’all. The song struck a chord with listeners upon its release, but its themes of patriotism, longing, and the sacrifices of military service resonated even more deeply following the September 11th terrorist attacks.
11 Months And 29 Days is a prime example of Toby Keith’s signature style, which blends country music traditions with a rock and roll edge. Keith, known for his outspoken patriotism and strong connection to the American military, wrote the song himself. While the producer of the album, Shock’n Y’all, is not definitively credited, Toby Keith has frequently collaborated with producers like Don Koch and Jimmy Johnson throughout his career, and it’s likely one of them was at the helm for this album.
The song tells the story from the perspective of a soldier deployed overseas in the Middle East, likely during the Iraq War. The soldier sings about the monotony and danger of his situation, but most importantly, his intense desire to return home to his family. The lyrics chronicle the soldier’s meticulous tracking of the days, hours, and even minutes remaining in his deployment.
11 Months And 29 Days became a huge hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song’s success can be attributed to its powerful lyrics that resonated with a nation grappling with war and the realities of military service. It struck a nerve with families with loved ones deployed overseas, offering a poignant expression of the anxieties and hopes of those waiting for their soldiers to return home.
11 Months And 29 Days transcended the country music charts and became a popular anthem for patriotism and military appreciation. Toby Keith has performed the song countless times throughout his career, and it remains a staple at his concerts. The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to capture the universal emotions of those separated by war and the unwavering hope for homecoming.
Video:
Lyrics:
“11 Months And 29 Days”
Walkin’ around in a daze
Man, I’m sittin’ in the slammer
Lookin’ out through the bars ‘cross a hazeIt’ll all clear up
In 11 months and 29 daysKeep that Lone Star cold
The dance floor hot while I’m gone
Keep the Lone Star cold
Dance floor hot while I’m gone
While I’m gone
Keep your hands off my baby
I ain’t gonna be gone that long
Incognito bandito
That old judge put a sledgehammer
Put it in my hand when he said
I’m gonna send you down to Huntsville
And I’m gonna shave your face
And I’m gonna shave your head
Doin’ 11/29
Cement floor for my bed
When I busted in Austin
Walkin’ around in a daze
Now I’m sittin’ in this slammer
Lookin’ out through the bars ‘cross a haze
It’ll all clear up
In 11 months and 29 days