Introduction:
Alright, y’all, gather ’round ’cause we’re takin’ a deep dive into a curious little ditty from the one and only Toby Keith. Released in 2020, “What’s Up Cuz” might not be your typical Toby Keith anthem, but it sure is a head-scratcher in the best possible way. Now, settle in with your favorite iced tea, ’cause this one’s got more twists and turns than a Texas two-step.
For those unfamiliar, Toby Keith is a country music titan. A true son of Oklahoma, his music’s been the soundtrack to rodeos, Friday nights, and everything in between for over three decades. He’s a storyteller, a singer with a voice as rough and tumble as the heartland itself, and a songwriter who ain’t afraid to tackle anything from patriotism to heartbreak. But with “What’s Up Cuz”, Toby throws us a curveball.
This ain’t your grandpappy’s country song. “What’s Up Cuz” dips its boots into a more playful, almost novelty territory. It’s a short and sweet, one-minute wonder that throws out more questions than answers. Now, some folks might scoff at this departure from Toby’s usual style, but here’s the thing: it works. It’s catchy, it’s clever, and it’s got that unmistakable Toby Keith charm running through it.
Now, let’s talk about the production side of things. Toby himself joins forces with Bobby Pinson on the production credits. Pinson’s another name well-respected in the country music world, having worked with folks like Trace Adkins and Josh Gracin. Together, they create a simple yet effective soundscape for the song. It’s got that classic country twang on the guitar, a steady drumbeat, and just enough production polish to keep things interesting without burying the song under layers of studio trickery.
“What’s Up Cuz” didn’t exactly set the charts on fire, but that doesn’t diminish its quirky appeal. It’s a song that’s sure to raise a smile, maybe even a chuckle. It’s a testament to Toby Keith’s ability to surprise his audience and have a little fun while he’s at it. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something a little different, a little out-of-the-box Toby Keith, give “What’s Up Cuz” a spin. You might just find yourself tapping your foot and wonderin’ along with the rest of us: “What’s Up Cuz?”