Toby Keith – If You’re Tryin’ You Ain’t

Introduction:

Released in 2002 as the lead single from his album “Honky Tonk University,” Toby Keith’s “If You’re Tryin’ You Ain’t” quickly became a country music anthem that resonated with listeners across the genre. The song’s straightforward, relatable lyrics and energetic melody propelled it to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, solidifying Keith’s status as a leading figure in country music.

Produced by Keith himself alongside Scotty Emerick, “If You’re Tryin’ You Ain’t” showcases Keith’s signature brand of traditional country music. The song’s driving tempo, catchy chorus, and Keith’s powerful vocals create a sense of urgency and determination. Lyrically, the song celebrates the underdog spirit and encourages listeners to persevere in the face of adversity. Keith sings about the importance of hard work, dedication, and never giving up on one’s dreams.

The song’s success was not limited to the country charts. “If You’re Tryin’ You Ain’t” also crossed over to the mainstream pop charts, peaking at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video, directed by Steven Goldmann, further contributed to the song’s popularity, featuring Keith performing the song at various locations, including a honky-tonk bar and a rodeo.

“If You’re Tryin’ You Ain’t” has since become a country music classic, frequently covered by other artists and featured on various compilation albums. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal message of perseverance and determination, making it a timeless anthem for anyone facing challenges in their lives.

Video:

Lyrics:

“If You’re Tryin’ You Ain’t”

Yeah, you can try to love your woman, try to love your friends
Try to love your neighbor, you can try it again
Try to go to church, try to live your life
Probably still be tryin’ on the day that you die

Well, if you’re tryin’ you ain’t tryin’, there’s work to do, son
You can’t get up early, baby, you can’t get it done
Roll up your sleeves, don’t tell me that you can’t
Make something, something, if you’re tryin’ you ain’t

Try something old, try something new
Try it when no one else is even watchin’ but you
Try just a little, try it too much
Try an over do it and it still ain’t enough

And if you’re tryin’ you ain’t, there’s work to do son
You can’t get up early, baby, you can’t get it done
Roll up your sleeves, don’t tell me that you can’t
Make something, something, if you’re tryin’ you ain’t

Tryin’, tryin’ you ain’t
Tryin’, tryin’

Well, if you’re tryin’ you ain’t, there’s work to do son
You can’t get up early, baby, you can’t get it done
Roll up your sleeves, don’t tell me that you can’t
Make something, something, if you’re tryin’ you ain’t

And if you’re tryin’ you ain’t, there’s work to do son
You can’t get up early, baby, you can’t get it done
Roll up your sleeves, don’t tell me that you can’t
Make something, something, if you’re tryin’ you ain’t

Tryin’, tryin’
Tryin’ you ain’t
Tryin still tryin
Tryin’ you ain’t

Tryin’, tryin’
Tryin’ you ain’t