Introduction:
Toby Keith’s “High Maintenance Woman” is a humorous country song that playfully explores the challenges and rewards of being in a relationship with a demanding partner. Released in 2007 as the lead single from his eleventh studio album, Big Dog Daddy, the song quickly became a popular anthem for men who could relate to the ups and downs of domestic life.
Keith penned the song himself, drawing inspiration from his own experiences and observations of the relationships around him. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who is both high-spirited and high-strung, requiring constant attention, pampering, and reassurance. Despite her demanding nature, the narrator clearly loves and appreciates her, recognizing that her quirks and eccentricities are part of what makes her special.
The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody contribute to its enduring appeal. Keith’s distinctive vocal style, with its blend of grit and charm, perfectly captures the playful tone of the lyrics. The music video, directed by Steven Goldmann, features Keith and his band performing the song in a variety of settings, including a living room, a kitchen, and a backyard. The video’s humorous visuals and Keith’s energetic performance further enhance the song’s appeal.
“High Maintenance Woman” was a commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song also earned Keith a nomination for Male Vocalist of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards in 2008. Its popularity can be attributed to its relatable theme, catchy melody, and Keith’s engaging performance.
In addition to its commercial success, “High Maintenance Woman” has become a staple of Keith’s live shows. The song’s upbeat tempo and sing-along chorus make it a crowd-pleaser, and Keith’s energetic performances often include humorous anecdotes and audience interaction. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and Keith’s ability to connect with his fans on a personal level.
Video:
Lyrics:
“High Maintenance Woman”
[Verse 1]
I see her layin’ by the poolside every day
She ain’t got a lot on
She ain’t got a lot to say[Verse 2]
She wouldn’t look my way
But buddy, what do you expect
I’m just the fix-it-up boy at the apartment complex[Pre Chorus]
And she’ll go out dancin’ ’bout 7:15
Climb into the back of a long limosine
I know where she’s goin’
She’s goin’ downtown
I’m goin’ downtown, too, and take a look around[Chorus]
See my baby doll
She’s my beauty queen
She’s my movie star
Best I ever seen
I ain’t hooked it up yet
But I’m tryin’ hard as I can
It’s just a high maintenance woman
Don’t want no maintenance man[Verse 3]
I’m just sittin’ ’round waitin’ on a telephone call
After water pipe exploded in the living room wall
If your washer and dryer in need of repair
You know the handyman’s waitin’
And he’ll be right there[Pre Chorus]
Twenty-four hours
Seven days a week
If it’s gettin’ clogged up or maybe startin’ to leak
Just ring up my number, baby, give me a try
You know I got all the tools
And I can satisfy[Chorus 2]
See my baby doll
She’s my beauty queen
She’s my movie star
Best I ever seen
I ain’t asked her out yet
‘Cause I don’t know if I can
You see a high maintenance woman
Don’t want no maintenance man…man[Tag Chorus]
See my baby doll
She’s my beauty queen
She’s my movie star
Best I ever seen
I ain’t hooked it up yet
But I’m tryin’ hard as I can
It’s just a high maintenance woman
Don’t want no maintenance man
Ain’t no high maintenance woman
Gonna fall for a maintenance man…no