Introduction:
“Before We Knew They Were Good” is a song by American country music artist Toby Keith, released in 2013 as part of his album “Drinks After Work.” This track showcases a reflective side of Keith, contrasting with the more upbeat, celebratory songs he’s often known for. The song delves into themes of nostalgia and the bittersweet nature of memories, capturing a sense of longing for the simpler times of youth.
“Before We Knew They Were Good” is a country ballad with a mellow, emotive melody that invites listeners to reminisce about their own pasts. The lyrics speak to the idea that people often don’t realize the value of the moments they’re living until they become memories. Keith’s vocal performance is both heartfelt and earnest, evoking a sense of warmth and introspection that resonates deeply with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of nostalgia and reflection.
The song is especially appealing to those who are in a transitional period in life—such as graduating, starting a new job, or moving to a new city—as it encourages listeners to cherish the present and recognize the good in their lives before it’s gone. Despite not being one of Keith’s biggest commercial hits, “Before We Knew They Were Good” has found a special place in the hearts of fans who appreciate its contemplative nature and the universal message it conveys about valuing the moments that make life special.
The album “Drinks After Work,” which includes this song, reflects a variety of moods and styles, reinforcing Keith’s versatility as an artist. The song is a standout track for its introspective lyrics and emotional delivery, showcasing a different dimension of Toby Keith’s musical persona.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Before We Knew They Were Good”
Never more than a couple of ’em run at a time
Bold and bored, standin’ and gasolinin’
Makin’ sparks with anything we could find
We love that town but we were seventeeners
Ridin’ around giving it the finger[Chorus:]
Those days we made it last all night
Those girls we thought were just all right
Those kids that town misunderstood
They were great before we knew they were good
Sweatin’ in the sun ‘cuz havin’ fun takes money
Paid for our crazy cuttin’ grass
Waitin’ on the front porch
For little miss milk and honey
Smellin’ like Marlboros and lawnmower gas
We parked that Galaxy out there where the milo grew
Two beginners tryin’ to show each other what they knew
[Repeat Chorus]
Caged birds singing, waitin’ on their wings and learnin’ to fly
One day they’re on the ground and then you turn around
They’re all in the sky
[Repeat Chorus]
Before we knew they were good
They were great