Introduction:
Toby Keith’s “Hard Way to Make an Easy Living” is a country music anthem released in 2013 as part of his album, “Drinks After Work.” The song, a testament to the American work ethic and the value of self-made success, quickly resonated with listeners and became a staple on country radio stations.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who has built his life from the ground up. He’s not a wealthy man by conventional standards, but he’s proud of the work he’s done and the life he’s created for himself. The chorus encapsulates the song’s central theme: “Some people say he’s a wealthy man, but he / Built his house with his own two hands on a / Piece of land that’s as far as you can see / They call him lucky, but they don’t know.”
“Hard Way to Make an Easy Living” is a classic example of Toby Keith’s songwriting style, which often blends elements of traditional country music with contemporary influences. The song’s melody is catchy and memorable, and Keith’s vocals are full of emotion and conviction. The song’s success can be attributed in part to its relatable lyrics, which speak to the experiences of many working-class Americans.
The song’s release coincided with a period of significant commercial success for Toby Keith. “Drinks After Work” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, and “Hard Way to Make an Easy Living” became a top-ten hit on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. The song’s popularity helped to solidify Keith’s reputation as one of the most successful country music artists of his generation.
Beyond its commercial success, “Hard Way to Make an Easy Living” has also become a beloved anthem among country music fans. The song’s message of hard work, perseverance, and self-reliance continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. It’s a testament to the enduring power of country music to tell stories that speak to the heart and soul of its audience.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Hard Way To Make An Easy Living”
Some people say he’s a wealthy man
But he built his house with his own two hands
On a piece of land that’s as far as you can seeThey call him lucky, but they don’t know
He’s up and running when the rooster crows
And he’s still in the fields with his supper cold
But if you ask me,[Chorus:]
It’s a hard hard way to make your way
In a world that don’t care what you pay,
What you earn or what you take,
Or how much you’re not giving
Life’s a tough old road to hoe,
Trust in God with the seeds you sow,
And always know it’s a hard hard way of making easy livingHis flatbed it was shiny and new back in 1992
It’s been a few since he had ‘im a year like that
He ain’t got time to complain,
Hay on the ground and it looks like rain and,
Pray it ain’t like the twister that came back in ’88 and laid everything flat[Chorus]
They take for granted for what he’s planted in that stubborn ground,
But the cattle and the cotton know that they don’t know in town[Chorus]
Makin’ easy living,
Making easy living.