Introduction:
Country music icon Toby Keith’s “You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This” hit the airwaves in the fall of 2000 as part of his smash-hit album “How Do You Like Me Now?!”. The song quickly became a staple on country radio stations and a favorite among fans for its catchy melody, relatable story, and Keith’s signature baritone vocals.
While firmly rooted in the world of country music, “You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This” also incorporates elements of pop and rock, particularly in its driving beat and prominent electric guitar. This sonic blend helped the song find a wider audience beyond the typical country music listener. James Stroud served as the song’s producer, working alongside Keith to craft a sound that was both familiar and fresh.
Thematically, “You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This” plays with the tension between attraction and commitment. The song’s narrator finds himself drawn to a beautiful woman on the dance floor, but warns her that her passionate kiss could have unintended consequences. He’s unsure of her intentions and hesitant to get swept away by the moment if it doesn’t lead anywhere serious.
“You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This” became a major commercial success. The song reached number two on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and remained on the charts for a total of 40 weeks. It also performed well on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 38. The song’s popularity was further boosted by a music video directed by Michael Salomonove , which featured Keith performing the song at a crowded bar alongside scenes of a budding romance.
“You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This” is not just a catchy tune; it’s a song that captures the emotional complexities of barroom encounters and the fine line between casual flirtation and genuine connection. It remains a popular choice for country line dancing and a staple on Toby Keith’s concert setlists, solidifying its place as a modern country classic.
Video:
Lyrics:
“You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This”
I’ve got a funny feeling
The moment that your lips touched mine
Something shot right through me
My heart skipped a beat in timeThere’s a different feel about you tonight
It’s got me thinkin’ lots of crazy things
I even think I saw a flash of light
It felt like electricityYou shouldn’t kiss me like this
Unless you mean it like that
Cause I’ll just close my eyes
And I won’t know where I’m at
We’ll get lost on this dance floor
Spinnin’ around
And around
And around
And aroundThey’re all watchin’ us now
They think we’re falling in love
They’d never believe we’re just friends
When you kiss me like this
I think you mean it like that
If you do baby kiss me againEverybody swears we make the perfect pair
But dancing is as far as it goes
Girl you’ve never moved me quite
The way you moved me tonight
I just wanted you to know
I just wanted you to knowYou shouldn’t kiss me like this
Unless you mean it like that
Cause I’ll just close my eyes
And I won’t know where I’m at
We’ll get lost on this dance floor
Spinnin’ around
And around
And around
And aroundThey’re all watchin’ us now
They think we’re falling in love
They’d never believe we’re just friends
When you kiss me like this
I think you mean it like that
If you do baby kiss me again
Kiss me again