Toby Keith – Beer for My Horses (Featuring Willie Nelson) (2003) (Video) (Lyrics)

Written February 10, 2024

Toby Keith.  I can’t help but feel that his death is the end of an era. The lyrics to “Beer for My Horses” have been running through my head ever since I learned of his untimely death early Monday morning.  Even though I’ve never truly been a full-fledged country music fan, I loved most of his music.  What I don’t love, I simply haven’t discovered yet.  While my heart will always belong to pop/rock, alternative, classic rock, etc., Toby Keith will always remain one of my favorite country artists.  Songs such as “I Love This Bar,” “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue,” “Should’ve Been A Cowboy,” “Whiskey Girl,” “American Soldier,” and so, so much more were always a part of the soundtrack to my college years and early 20s.  I don’t think it is possible to even discuss popular music in the early 2000s without mentioning Toby Keith in some form, and that isn’t even considering his lasting impact on country music.

So, what is it that made him so popular and memorable?  Personally, he always reminded me of the older brothers of classmates.  The ones that were either too cool or cautionary tales, depending on your perspective.  Those with just a hint enough of danger to make them attractive.  He never cared what others thought, and he never shied away from his rural upbringing.  In fact, he celebrated it, and we loved him for it.  In spite of everything, he remained true to himself and wasn’t afraid to celebrate his love for his country.  All of that resonated with me and so many others.

By the way, if you haven’t watched the video to “Beer for My Horses,” check it out.  It is even better than I remember.