Introduction:
“Who’s That Man” by Toby Keith is a heartfelt country song released in 1994 as the lead single from his album Boomtown. This song marked a pivotal moment in Keith’s career, earning him his second number-one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Known for its deeply personal and reflective lyrics, “Who’s That Man” explores the raw emotions of a man dealing with the aftermath of a divorce. Keith narrates from the perspective of a man driving past his former home, witnessing another man stepping into the life he once had with his wife and children. This haunting narrative, accompanied by Keith’s poignant delivery, resonated widely, making it a standout track in 90s country music.
“Who’s That Man” showcases Keith’s songwriting prowess as he captures the despair and sense of disconnection following a breakup. The lyrics poignantly depict a father’s sadness in seeing his family adapt to a life without him, heightening the song’s emotional depth and relatability. The music video adds another layer, as Keith reflects on a past life that is no longer his, underscoring the song’s message of loss and the feeling of being replaced.
This single not only boosted Keith’s popularity but also demonstrated his skill in addressing complex themes with authenticity and vulnerability. It stands as one of his most memorable hits from the 1990s, helping to establish him as a significant figure in country music during that era. The success of “Who’s That Man” was instrumental in Keith’s ongoing rise, highlighting his appeal to listeners who valued emotionally resonant storytelling in country music.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Who’s That Man”
I know this boulevard much too well
It hasn’t changed since I been gone
Oh, this used to be my way homeThey paved the road through the neighborhood
I guess the county finally fixed it good
It was getting rough
Someone finally complained enough
Fight the tears back with a smile
Stop and look for a little while
Oh, it’s plain to see
The only thing missing is me
That’s my house and that’s my car
That’s my dog in my back yard
There’s the window to the room
Where she lays her pretty head
I planted that tree out by the fence
Not long after we moved in
There’s my kids and that’s my wife
Who’s that man running my life?
If I pulled in would it ’cause a scene?
They’re not really expecting me
Those kids’ve been through hell
I hear they’ve adjusted well
Turn around in the neighbour’s drive
I’d be hard to recognise
In this pick-up truck
It’s just an old fixer-up
Drive away one more time
Lot of things -running- through my mind
I guess the less things change
The more they never seem the same
That’s my house and that’s my car
That’s my dog in my back yard
There’s the window to the room
Where she lays her pretty head
I planted that tree out by the fence
Not long after we moved in
There’s my kids and that’s my wife
Who’s that man running my life?
That’s my house and that’s my car
That’s my dog in my back yard
There’s the window to the room
Where she lays her pretty head
I planted that tree out by the fence
Not long after we moved in
There’s my kids and that’s my wife
Who’s that man running my life?
Who’s that man running my life?
Who’s that man running my life?
Who’s that man running my life?