Introduction:
Released in 2010, Toby Keith’s fourteenth studio album, Bullets In The Gun, became a significant entry in the artist’s already impressive discography. A staple of the country music genre, Keith is known for his unapologetic lyrics that often touch on themes of patriotism, American identity, and working-class life. Bullets In The Gun continued this trend, solidifying Keith’s position as a voice for a particular segment of American society.
The album itself was produced by Show Dog-Universal Music, a label known for its focus on established country music artists. Bullets In The Gun wasn’t a critical darling, but it received positive reviews for its “lean” and “tight” production, with some reviewers calling it Keith’s strongest work in years. Commercially, the album fared well, reaching number one on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and number ten on the Billboard 200 chart. Three singles were released from the album: “Trailerhood”, the title track, “Bullets In The Gun”, and “Somewhere Else”. While none of the singles achieved the same level of success as some of Keith’s earlier hits, they resonated with his core fanbase.
“Bullets In The Gun”, the song, is a prime example of the themes explored on the album. The exact meaning of the song is left open to interpretation, but it undoubtedly carries a strong patriotic message. The lyrics reference American values, a sense of self-reliance, and a willingness to defend those values. The song’s title itself is a powerful and provocative statement, and it’s clear that Keith is aiming to spark a conversation with his music.
However, “Bullets In The Gun” also sparked some controversy. Critics argued that the song glorified violence and gun ownership. They felt that the song’s message was insensitive, particularly in the wake of mass shootings that had recently plagued the United States. Keith, however, defended his work, stating that it was a celebration of American strength and resilience. He argued that the song was not about advocating for violence, but rather about the importance of standing up for what you believe in.
Whether one agrees with Keith’s message or not, “Bullets In The Gun” is a song that is undeniable. It is a powerful statement from a popular artist, and it reflects the ongoing conversation about patriotism, gun control, and American identity in the 21st century. “Bullets In The Gun” stands as a testament to Toby Keith’s ability to connect with his audience and spark debate with his music.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Bullets In The Gun”
I was always quick to strike
Had everything I own
In the saddles on my bike
I had a reputation
For never staying very long
Just like a wild and restless drifter
Like a cowboy in a songI met a darkhaired beauty
Where they lay the whiskey down
In southern Arizona
In a little border town
She had to dance for money
In that dusty old saloon
I dropped a dollar in the jukebox
Played that girl a tune, yeah
Never see it comin’
It just hits you by surprise
It’s that cold place in your soul
And the fire in her eyes
That makes you come together
Like wild horses when they run
Now the cards are on the table and
The bullets in the gun
She was sittin’ on my lap
We still had shots to kill
When a man pulled up
Who owned the bar
In a Cadillac Deville
Grabbed her by her raven hair
And threw her on the floor
Said, “No free rides for the cowboys,
That ain’t what I pay you for, no”
She jumped up and grabbed my pistol
Stuck it in the fat man’s back
Said, “Open up the safe
And put your money in the sack”
Then tied his hands behind him
And put a blindfold on his eyes
Said, “If you’re dumb enough to chase us, man,
You’re dumb enough to die”
Never see it comin’
It just hits you by surprise
It’s that cold place in your soul
And the fire in her eyes
Makes you come together
Like wild horses when they run
Now the cards are on the table
And the bullets in the gun
We rode across the border
Down into Mexico
When you’re runnin’ from the law
Ain’t that where everybody goes
We came upon a town
With a name I couldn’t spell
She gave me what I came for
In that Mexican motel
I woke up to sirens
And the sound of running feet
Near 50 Federals locked and loaded in the street
She grabbed my 44
I grabbed the money in the sack
I kissed her for the last time
And we headed out the back
Every gun was on us
And every heartbeat pounded
The only thing that’s left to do
When they got you all surrounded
She fired that old pistol
But we didn’t stand a prayer
Money hit the gravel
Bullets filled the air
Never see it comin’
Just hits you by surprise
It’s that cold place in your soul
And the fire in her eyes
Makes you come together
Like wild horses when they run
Now the cards are on the table and
The bullets in the gun
Bullets in the gun
Bullets in the gun
Bullets in the gun