Toby Keith – I’ll Wake You Up When I Get Home

Introduction:

Ah, yes, Toby Keith’s “I’ll Wake You Up When I Get Home”. Now that’s a song that brings back memories. Released in 2020, it wasn’t an original composition by Keith himself, but rather a cover of a classic country tune by the legendary Charlie Rich. This little gem found its way onto Keith’s project, “Furniture Store Guitar Sessions”, a collection of stripped-down, acoustic performances recorded during the COVID-19 quarantine.

While the original might have boasted a fuller sound, Keith’s rendition takes a more intimate approach. The focus here is purely on the raw emotion conveyed by Rich’s poignant lyrics and the simple beauty of the acoustic guitar. Now, Charlie Rich was a true giant of country music. A singer-songwriter known for his smooth baritone and ability to weave a story with his voice, Rich had a career spanning decades, influencing countless artists along the way. “I’ll Wake You Up When I Get Home” perfectly exemplifies his signature style.

The song itself is a tender ballad, a love letter to a wife left alone at night while the husband is out. It’s a scenario familiar to many in the country music world, one that speaks to the sacrifices made and the bonds strengthened by those who live a life on the road. The lyrics paint a picture of a man wrestling with the desire to be home with his love while also facing the responsibilities that keep him away. We hear his longing, his affection, and a touch of guilt, all wrapped up in a promise – a promise to return and share his love as soon as the night is done.

Keith’s decision to cover this particular song during those isolated recording sessions speaks volumes about his own artistic sensibilities. Even amidst the chaos and uncertainty of a global pandemic, the core values of country music – love, loyalty, and the importance of home – remained his focus. His stripped-down performance allows the raw emotion of the lyrics to shine through, creating a powerful connection with the listener. It’s a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted song and the ability of a great artist, whether the original composer or a skilled interpreter, to breathe new life into it.

So, when you hit play on “I’ll Wake You Up When I Get Home”, prepare to be transported to a simpler time, a time where love and longing intertwined in the melodies of country music. It’s a song that reminds us of the sacrifices made for love, the importance of home, and the simple joy of reuniting with those who matter most.

Video:

Lyrics:

“I’ll Wake You Up When I Get Home”
(from “Every Which Way But Loose” soundtrack)