Introduction:
Toby Keith’s “The Critic” is a defiant anthem that has resonated with audiences since its release in 2002. The song, a single from his album “Unleashed,” is a scathing critique of music critics and their often negative assessments of artists.
The song’s inception can be traced back to Keith’s frustrations with the music industry’s tendency to dismiss artists who don’t conform to established norms. As a country music star who often pushed the boundaries of the genre, Keith had firsthand experience with critical backlash. “The Critic” serves as a response to those who doubted his talent and dismissed his music.
The song’s lyrics are filled with biting sarcasm and dark humor. Keith paints a picture of a critic who is out of touch with the tastes of the people. He mocks the critic’s pretentiousness and lack of authenticity. The chorus, “You’re just a critic, a bitter critic, a has-been critic, a loser critic,” is a powerful statement of defiance.
“The Critic” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It also earned Keith a Grammy nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance. The song’s popularity can be attributed to its relatable message and Keith’s charismatic delivery. Many listeners found themselves identifying with the sentiment of standing up to critics and pursuing their passions despite negative feedback.
“The Critic” has become a defining moment in Toby Keith’s career. It showcases his ability to write songs that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and Keith’s enduring appeal as a country music icon.
Video:
Lyrics:
“The Critic”
Tell it like it is…
He gets up real early on his mornin drive.
Down to the office for his 9 to 5.
He drives a 94, 2 ton, economy car.
Loves to tell the local bands down at the bar that he’s The Critic.Yea, I can hook you up, I know everybody, in the business.
He flunked junior high band he couldn’t march in time.
He tried to write a song once, he couldn’t make it rhyme.
He went two or three chords on a pawn shop guitar, he just never quite had what it took to be a star, so he’s a critic.I work for the Gazette man…I got a real job.
He did a 5-star column on a band he never heard.
He did a bluegrass review about an unkind word.
He thought it was time to ask his boss for a raise, his boss said I can’t even tell if anybody’s even readin your page.Yea…
So he thought…and he thought a little more.
He caught a young hot star headin into town, and then he hid behind his typewriter and gunned the boy down.
Here come the letters, the e-mails, the faxes, they raised him to 20,000 dollars after taxes.He’s a happy critic…
He’s rollin in the dough…
Man I could do this forever…this is easy. Everybody’s readin my column!
Please don’t tell my mom, that I write the music column for the Gazette.
She still thinks I play piano down at the Cathouse.Let’s get funky with this now boys…Play it on out.
Come on Shannon.
There’s ole Biff jumpin in.
?? is layin it down.
Come on Shannon.
Aww yea, my man Steve.
Man my fingers are gettin tired…y’all gonna have to hurry. This snappin thing…wearin me out.
Hello Shannon.
Guess he’s on coffee break man.
They’re gonna love you…cause they already love me.
(Yea!)
It’s the Critic.