Introduction:
“The Taliban Song” by Toby Keith is a controversial track that was written and performed during a turbulent time in U.S. history, shortly after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Released as part of his 2002 album Unleashed, the song was a reaction to the war on terror and the U.S. military’s actions in Afghanistan. It quickly became one of the most talked-about songs of Keith’s career, capturing the anger and frustration many Americans felt at the time.
The song features a raw, patriotic tone and addresses the Taliban’s oppressive regime in Afghanistan and their role in harboring terrorists. While it is a direct expression of Keith’s support for American military efforts, it also highlights the songwriter’s desire for justice and revenge in the face of the attacks. Though the song’s lyrics are brash and straightforward, they struck a chord with listeners who were looking for an anthem of defiance and national pride following the tragedy.
Despite its strong appeal to many Americans, “The Taliban Song” was highly divisive. It sparked significant controversy, particularly for its aggressive language and perceived glorification of violence. Some critics accused Keith of using the tragedy for commercial gain, while others applauded him for voicing the anger felt by countless citizens.
The song’s release also coincided with Keith’s rise to prominence as a voice in the country music genre that was unafraid to address hot-button political issues. “The Taliban Song” remains one of his more polarizing tracks, standing as both a reflection of the emotions of the time and a testament to his willingness to speak out in the face of national crisis.
Video:
Lyrics:
“The Taliban Song”
I got a little, 2 bedroom cave here in North Afghanistan
Things used to be real nice and they got out of hand when they moved in
They call themselves the Taliban
(ooooo yeah the taliban) (taliban baby)
Now I ain’t seen my wife’s face since they came here
They make her wear a scarf over her head that covers her from ear to ear
She loves the desert and the hot white sand
But man she’s just like me, nah she can’t stand
The Taliban (ooo taliban baby)
You know someday soon we’re both gonna saddle up and it’ll be
Ride Camel Ride
My old lady she’ll be here with me, smilin right by my side
We should do just fine out around Palestine or maybe Turkmenistan
We’ll bid a fair adieu and flip the finger to the Taliban
(oh yeah the taliban) (baby)
I know where you comin from brother!
This is a patriotic love song
So y’all feel free to salute if you want,
You got my permission.
Now they attacked New York City cause they thought they could win
Said they would, stand and fight until the very bloody end
Mr Bush got on the phone with Iraq and Iran and said “Now, you
sons-of-bitches you better not be doin any business with the taliban”
(Taliban baby)
So we prayed to Allah with all of our might
Until those big U.S. jets came flyin one night
They dropped little bombs all over their holy land
And man you should have seen em run like rabbits, they ran
(the taliban)
You know someday soon we’re both gonna saddle up and it’ll be
Ride Camel Ride
My old lady she’ll be here with me, smilin right by my side
We should do real fine out around Palestine or maybe Turkmenistan
We’ll bid a fair adieu and flip a couple fingers to the Taliban
(oh yeah, taliban)
we’ll bid a fair adieu and flip a big boner to The Taliban (baby)”