Introduction:
Ah, Toby Keith’s “Drinks After Work”. Released in 2013 as the title track for his seventeenth studio album, this song marked a bit of a departure for the country music titan. While Keith was known for his signature blend of patriotism, working-class anthems, and good ol’ fashioned storytelling, “Drinks After Work” leaned towards a more contemporary country sound. It wasn’t a complete overhaul – Keith’s unmistakable baritone and knack for relatable lyrics were still very much present – but the song offered a glimpse into the evolving landscape of country music in the early 2010s.
The track itself was written by a trio of Nashville hitmakers: Luke Laird, Barry Dean, and Natalie Hemby. These three had their fingers on the pulse of contemporary country, and “Drinks After Work” perfectly captured the frustrations and yearnings of the modern worker. The song opens with a relatable scenario – a cubicle drone staring at a computer screen, yearning for the freedom and camaraderie of a post-work hangout. “Hook on the phone stare at the screen / Doing the job living the dream getting paid yeah right”, Keith sings, his voice laced with a hint of sarcasm. The lyrics paint a picture of a monotonous routine, one that’s only broken by the promise of drinks with friends after the clock strikes five.
The musical arrangement on “Drinks After Work” is a mix of classic country elements and modern production techniques. A steady drumbeat lays the foundation, while a clean electric guitar adds a touch of contemporary edge. The production, helmed by Keith himself, is polished and radio-friendly, but it doesn’t overshadow the song’s core message. It’s all about capturing that feeling of liberation that comes with leaving the office behind and connecting with friends over a cold drink.
“Drinks After Work” wasn’t necessarily a critical darling. Some traditional country fans felt it strayed too far from Keith’s roots, while others embraced the song’s contemporary sound. However, it did resonate with audiences, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. More importantly, it became a relatable anthem for office workers across the country, a song that perfectly encapsulated the shared experience of the daily grind and the joyful release of after-work drinks with friends.
While “Drinks After Work” may not be Toby Keith’s most iconic song, it holds a significant place in his discography. It represents a willingness to experiment and adapt to the changing landscape of country music. It also serves as a reminder of the simple pleasures in life – the satisfaction of a job well done, the camaraderie of friends, and the joy of unwinding at the end of a long day.