About the Song
Toby Keith, a country music icon known for his anthemic songs and bravado, takes a more lighthearted approach with “My List.” Released in 2002 on his album “Pull My Chain,” the song offers a humorous glimpse into the priorities of a laid-back country character.
“My List” isn’t your typical tear-jerking ballad or rowdy party anthem. Instead, it’s a tongue-in-cheek look at the simple pleasures in life. Keith, with his signature gruff charm, sings about the things that truly matter to him: a cold beer, a loyal dog, a truck with a working radio, and of course, “a woman who understands.”
The lyrics, penned by Tim James and Rand Bishop, are filled with playful imagery and relatable experiences. Lines like “don’t need a mansion, just a place to call my own” and “don’t need a fancy car, just one that gets me down the road” capture the essence of small-town values and the importance of finding contentment in the simple things.
The song’s lighthearted tone is further accentuated by the upbeat melody. A catchy guitar riff and a driving rhythm section create a carefree atmosphere, perfectly complementing the laid-back attitude of the lyrics. Keith’s signature vocals add a touch of authenticity, making the list feel genuine and relatable.
Despite its lightheartedness, “My List” offers a subtle message about living a life true to oneself. It celebrates the importance of finding joy in the everyday and prioritizing what truly matters. The song reminds us that happiness doesn’t come from material possessions or chasing grand ambitions, but from appreciating the simple things that bring us comfort and joy.
While not one of Keith’s most critically acclaimed songs, “My List” remains a fan favorite. Its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and lighthearted humor make it a perfect singalong anthem for a summer afternoon or a night with friends. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest ones.
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Lyrics: My List
Under an old brass paperweight is my list of things to do today
Go to the bank and the hardware store, put a new lock on the cellar door
I cross ’em off as I get ’em done but when the sun is set
There’s still more than a few things left I haven’t got to yetGo for a walk, say a little prayer
Take a deep breath of mountain air
Put on my glove and play some catch
It’s time that I make time for that
Wade the shore and cast a line
Look up a long lost friend of mine
Sit on the porch and give my girl a kiss
Start livin’, that’s the next thing on my listWouldn’t change the course of fate but cuttin’ the grass just had to wait
‘Cause I’ve got more important things like pushin’ my kid on the backyard swing
I won’t break my back for a million bucks I can’t take to my grave
So why put off for tomorrow what I could get done todayLike go for a walk, say a little prayer
Take a deep breath of mountain air
Put on my glove and play some catch
It’s time that I make time for that
Wade the shore and cast a line
Look up a long lost friend of mine
Sit on the porch and give my girl a kiss
Start livin’, that’s the next thing on my listRaise a little hell, laugh ’til it hurts
Put an extra five in the plate at church
Call up my folks just to chat
It’s time that I make time for that
Stay up late, then oversleep
Show her what she means to me
Catch up on all the things I’ve always missed
Just start livin’, that’s the next thing on my listUnder an old brass paperweight
Is my list of things to do today