About the song
“How Do You Like Me Now?!” stands as a defining anthem in Toby Keith’s career, showcasing his blend of bold storytelling and unapologetic country rock style. Co-written with Chuck Cannon, the song was released in November 1999 as the lead single from his album of the same name. Its inception stemmed from Keith’s personal experiences and reflections on resilience in the face of skepticism and rejection.
Keith revealed that the song’s genesis was rooted in a phrase he often used, pondering the reaction of those who doubted him now that he had achieved success. Originally recorded near the end of his contract with Mercury Records Nashville, the song faced initial resistance from label executives. Despite this, Keith persisted, eventually purchasing the rights to the album after its partial rejection. The subsequent release of “How Do You Like Me Now?!” marked a pivotal moment, swiftly becoming a commercial triumph and asserting itself as one of Keith’s signature tracks.
Lyrically, the song delves into Keith’s musings about a former unrequited love interest, now contemplating whether she remembers him in light of his newfound fame. This theme of triumph over adversity resonated widely, contributing to the song’s widespread popularity and critical acclaim. Deborah Evans Price of Billboard praised its narrative depth and Keith’s impassioned delivery, highlighting its infectious melody and vibrant production.
The accompanying music video, directed by Michael Salomon, further amplified the song’s impact. Premiering in late 1999, it depicted Keith performing on a hometown football field under the cover of night, reinforcing the song’s themes of hometown pride and personal triumph.
“How Do You Like Me Now?!” not only topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for five consecutive weeks but also crossed over to mainstream success, peaking at number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success marked Keith’s first number-one single under the DreamWorks Nashville label and earned accolades including nominations for Single of the Year and Song of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards.
Beyond its chart success, the song has endured in popular culture, making appearances in various media and solidifying its place in the country music canon. Its resurgence on the charts following Keith’s passing underscores its enduring relevance and impact on audiences, cementing “How Do You Like Me Now?!” as a timeless anthem of perseverance and triumph in the face of doubt.
Video
Lyrics
Yeah, I was always the crazy one broke into the stadium
And I wrote your number on the 50-yard line
You were always the perfect one and a valedictorian
So under your number I wrote “Call for a good time”
I only wanted to get your attention
But you overlooked me somehow
Besides, you had too many boyfriends to mention
And I played my guitar too loud
How do you like me now?
How do you like me now?
Now that I’m on my way
Do you still think I’m crazy standing here today?
I couldn’t make you love me but I always dreamed about livin’ in your radio
How do you like me now?
When I took off to Tennessee
I heard that you made fun of me
Never imagined I’d make it this far
Then you married into the money girl
Ain’t it a cruel and funny world?
He took your dreams, and he tore them apart
He never comes home, and you’re always alone
And your kids hear you cry down the hall
Alarm clock starts ringin’ who could that be singin’
It’s me baby, with your wake-up call
How do you like me now?
How do you like me now?
Now that I’m on my way
Do you still think I’m crazy standing here today?
I couldn’t make you love me but I always dreamed about living in your radio
How do like me now? Yeah
How do you like me now?
Now that I’m on my way
Do you still think I’m crazy standing here today?
I couldn’t make you love me but I always dreamed about living in your radio
How do you like me now?
Tell me, baby
I will preach on