Toby Keith – That’s Not How It Is

Introduction:

That’s Not How It Is is a powerful country ballad by the iconic Toby Keith. Released in 2002 as the lead single from his album Unleashed, the song quickly resonated with audiences and solidified Keith’s status as a leading voice in contemporary country music.

Known for his assertive and often politically charged lyrics, Toby Keith showcased a different side of himself with “That’s Not How It Is.” The song delves into the complexities of a failing relationship, exploring themes of heartbreak, longing, and regret. Keith’s raw and emotional vocals, combined with the song’s poignant storytelling, created a powerful and relatable listening experience.

Produced by James Stroud, a frequent collaborator of Keith’s, the track features a stripped-down production that allows the lyrics and vocals to take center stage. The song’s simplicity and honesty contributed to its widespread appeal, as it resonated with listeners who had experienced similar emotional turmoil.

“That’s Not How It Is” achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number two on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and becoming a top-ten hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its emotional depth and Keith’s ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.

Video:

Lyrics:

“That’s Not How It Is”

I woke up in bed last night when something came upon me
I was not lying there alone but I’ve never felt so lonely
Something’s come between us, girl feels like we’ve hit a wall
How can I know just how you feel when we don’t touch at allThis no communication thing is quickly growing old
This isolation booth I’m in is dark and turning cold
I used to steal your breath away with just one little kiss
Me and you, we were so in love back then, but that’s not how it is

I’d catch moonlight in a bottle if we could drink a toast to happiness
Fill my pickup bed with roses and back it right up to your door
I’d write your name in candy kisses from here to Carolina
If you change your mind and love me like before, but that’s not how it is

I have tossed and turned and rolled it over in my mind
Not knowing all the questions make the answers hard to find
I think I’ve covered everything, but still there’s something that I’ve missed
I used to read you, baby, like a book, but that’s not how it is

I’d catch moonlight in a bottle if we could drink a toast to happiness
Fill my pickup bed with roses and back it right up to your door
Write your name in candy kisses from here to Carolina
If you change your mind and love me like before, but that’s not how it is

You know I’d write your name in candy kisses from here to Carolina
If you change your mind and love me like before, but that’s not how it is

Oh, no, that’s not how it is
I woke up in bed last night when something came upon me
And I’ve never been so lonely
That’s not how it is