Introduction:

“High Maintenance Woman” is a single by country artist Toby Keith from his 2007 album Big Dog Daddy. The song, which Keith co-wrote with Tim Wilson and Danny Simpson, portrays a humorous take on unrequited love, with the protagonist pining after an attractive woman who seems out of his league. Known for his storytelling flair, Keith uses the perspective of a blue-collar handyman who fantasizes about winning over this “high maintenance” woman. Despite his efforts, he humorously acknowledges that his lack of refinement might keep him from catching her interest.

Keith’s performance of “High Maintenance Woman” shows his knack for blending humor with relatable themes, like the challenge of social class in romantic pursuits. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics contributed to its popularity, making it a Top 20 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Reflecting Keith’s admiration for hard-working individuals and his own background, the character in the song echoes the experiences of many everyday people, adding to its wide appeal.

The track is also a notable part of Big Dog Daddy, the first album Keith co-produced independently. It marked a significant step in his career, showcasing his creative independence and control over his music’s production. This autonomy allowed Keith to infuse more of his unique humor and perspective into the song, which resonated with fans and underscored his standing as a storyteller in modern country music.

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