Introduction:
Country music singer-songwriter Toby Keith rose to fame in the early 1990s with a rebellious streak and a sound that resonated with working-class America. In 1994, “Who’s That Man” became his breakout hit, propelling him to national recognition and establishing him as a major force in the genre.
The song, released as the lead single from his 1994 album “Boomtown”, was a self-penned ballad that showcased Keith’s distinctive baritone vocals and his talent for storytelling. Produced by veteran country music producers Don Cook and Jimmy Johnson, “Who’s That Man” tells the tale of a man reflecting on a past love and the consequences of his actions.
The haunting melody and introspective lyrics struck a chord with listeners. The song’s central question, “Who’s that man staring back at me in the mirror?” ponders themes of regret, lost love, and the passage of time. This introspective quality wasn’t typical of mainstream country music at the time, and “Who’s That Man” helped pave the way for a more personal and confessional style of songwriting.
“Who’s That Man” was a massive commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart (now Hot Country Songs), holding the top spot for a week. The song’s 20 week chart run solidified its place as a major hit, and it remains one of Keith’s most recognizable songs.
The impact of “Who’s That Man” wasn’t limited to the charts. The song earned critical acclaim, with praise for its emotional depth and Keith’s powerful performance. It helped establish Keith’s reputation as a songwriter who could craft relatable and affecting stories within the country music framework.
The success of “Who’s That Man” laid the groundwork for the rest of Keith’s career. The song introduced him to a wider audience and cemented his status as a rising star in the country music scene. “Who’s That Man” continues to be a fan favorite and a staple of Keith’s live performances. It remains a significant entry in the Toby Keith catalog and an important song in the history of contemporary country music.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Who’s That Man”
Turn left at the old hotel
I know this boulevard much too well
It hasn’t changed since I been gone
Oh, this used to be my way homeThey paved the road through the neighborhood
I guess the county finally fixed it good
It was getting rough
Someone finally complained enoughFight the tears back with a smile
Stop and look for a little while
Oh, it’s plain to see
The only thing missing is meThat’s my house and that’s my car
That’s my dog in my back yard
There’s the window to the room
Where she lays her pretty head
I planted that tree out by the fence
Not long after we moved in
There’s my kids and that’s my wife
Who’s that man running my life?If I pulled in would it ’cause a scene?
They’re not really expecting me
Those kids’ve been through hell
I hear they’ve adjusted wellTurn around in the neighbour’s drive
I’d be hard to recognise
In this pick-up truck
It’s just an old fixer-upDrive away one more time
Lot of things -running- through my mind
I guess the less things change
The more they never seem the sameThat’s my house and that’s my car
That’s my dog in my back yard
There’s the window to the room
Where she lays her pretty head
I planted that tree out by the fence
Not long after we moved in
There’s my kids and that’s my wife
Who’s that man running my life?That’s my house and that’s my car
That’s my dog in my back yard
There’s the window to the room
Where she lays her pretty head
I planted that tree out by the fence
Not long after we moved in
There’s my kids and that’s my wife
Who’s that man running my life?Who’s that man running my life?
Who’s that man running my life?
Who’s that man running my life?