That’s Not How It Is – Toby Keith

Introduction:

Toby Keith, a renowned country music artist, released his hit single “That’s Not How It Is” in 2002. The song, a poignant reflection on love and loss, quickly resonated with audiences and became a staple on country radio stations. It was included on Keith’s album “Unleashed,” which solidified his position as one of the leading figures in the country music genre.

“That’s Not How It Is” is a classic country ballad that showcases Keith’s emotive vocals and storytelling abilities. The song delves into the complexities of a deteriorating relationship, exploring themes of heartbreak, regret, and the longing for what once was. Keith’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple drifting apart, capturing the universal experience of love’s fragility and the pain of its demise.

Despite its melancholic tone, “That’s Not How It Is” offers a glimmer of hope. Keith acknowledges the inevitability of change and the challenges that relationships face, but he also expresses a desire for reconciliation. The song’s hopeful undertones resonated with listeners, providing comfort and solace during difficult times.

The single’s release coincided with a period of significant commercial success for Toby Keith. “That’s Not How It Is” climbed the country music charts, reaching the top ten and solidifying Keith’s status as a chart-topping artist. The song’s popularity also contributed to the success of “Unleashed,” which became a critical and commercial hit.

In addition to its chart success, “That’s Not How It Is” garnered critical acclaim. The song’s poignant lyrics, heartfelt melody, and Keith’s powerful vocals were praised by music critics. It further cemented Keith’s reputation as a versatile artist capable of delivering both upbeat anthems and introspective ballads.

“That’s Not How It Is” remains a beloved country classic, continuing to resonate with audiences years after its release. Its timeless themes of love, loss, and the human experience have ensured its enduring popularity. Toby Keith’s heartfelt performance and the song’s evocative lyrics have made it a staple in country music playlists and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling through song.

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