Introduction:
In the landscape of American country music, Toby Keith stands tall as a singer-songwriter who carved his own niche. Known for his no-nonsense lyrics, patriotic anthems, and working-class spirit, Keith’s music resonated deeply with a vast audience. Released in 2001 on his album “Pull Away”, the song “Hit It” became a signature tune for Keith, capturing the essence of American self-made success and entrepreneurial drive.
Toby Keith: A native of Oklahoma, Toby Keith Covel (1961-2024) rose to prominence in the 1990s with a string of hit songs like “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and “How Do You Like Me Now?!”. His music often celebrated the American heartland, blue-collar work ethic, and a touch of rebellious spirit. “Hit It” became another feather in his cap, solidifying his position as a country music iconoclast.
The Song’s Backbone: The driving force behind “Hit It” was producer James Stroud, a Nashville veteran known for his work with artists like Wynonna Judd and Montgomery Gentry. Stroud’s signature blend of traditional country instrumentation with a modern rock edge perfectly complemented Keith’s gravelly vocals and storytelling lyrics.
A Story of Small-Town Grit: “Hit It” doesn’t waste time with elaborate metaphors. The song tells a straightforward story, opening with the line “There’s a gentleman down in Lynchburg on the south side of Tennessee.” This “gentleman” turns out to be a moonshine distiller who built a successful brand from his homemade recipe. The song celebrates the ingenuity and perseverance it takes to turn a local product into a national name, a theme that resonated with those who identified with the struggles and triumphs of small-town America.
Chart Success and Lasting Legacy: “Hit It” peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, staying on the charts for an impressive 43 weeks. While it didn’t reach number one, the song became a staple of country radio and a favorite at Keith’s live shows. “Hit It” wasn’t just a commercial success; it also resonated with critics, earning praise for its catchy melody and relatable story.
Beyond the Charts: The impact of “Hit It” extended beyond the music industry. The song became an anthem for entrepreneurs and business owners, capturing the spirit of taking a chance and building something from the ground up. The song’s message of self-reliance and American ingenuity continues to resonate, making “Hit It” a timeless piece in Toby Keith’s vast musical legacy.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Hit It”
C’mon
There’s a gentleman down in Lynchburg
On the south side of Tennessee
He started cookin that home made whiskey
Had his own little recipe
Now his name’s on a million labels
And you can see it on a billboard sign
Got a lot of good ol’ buddys
But Jack Daniels is a friend of mineYou got to hit it
Get it while the gettin’s good
Kick the tires and pop that hood
I can’t quit it
Wouldn’t if I could
Sure beats sittin around
Knock, knock, knockin on wood
Get with it
While your bidin’ your time
Playin’ that ready or not
I’m gonna take my shot
Pop gotta hit itShe was standin behind the eight ball
Lookin like trouble in a short skirt
Hell on heels about yay tall
Makin it work, makin it work
The money was on the table
My eyes were out of the socket
She caught me bent down in front of the ball
And the eight ball in the corner pocket
HIT IT
Get it while the gettin’s good
Kick the tires and pop that hood
I can’t quit it
Wouldn’t if I could
Sure ain’t sittin here
Knock, knock, knockin on wood
Get with it
While your bidin’ your time
Playin’ that ready or not
I’m gonna take my shot
Pop gotta hit itGotta hit it
Got a pool shark honey
And a pocket full of money
And a bottle of ole’JD
You can jump on the bus
And party with us
But if your runnin with me runnin with meHit it
Get it while the getting’s good
Kick the tires and pop that hood
I can’t quit it
Wouldn’t if I could
Sure beats sittin around
Knock, knock, knockin on wood
Get with it
While your bidin’ your time
Playin’ that ready or not
I’m gonna take my shot
Pop gotta hit it
Yeah I’m gonna hit it