About the song
**As Good As I Once Was** is a heartfelt ballad by country music legend Toby Keith, released in 2002 as the lead single from his album of the same name. This poignant song explores the theme of lost love and the bittersweet memories that linger long after a relationship has ended.
Keith’s distinctive raspy vocals paint a vivid picture of a man grappling with the realization that he’s no longer the person he used to be. The lyrics delve into the emotional turmoil that accompanies the passage of time, as the protagonist reflects on his younger days and the carefree love he once knew.
The song’s introspective tone is complemented by its melancholic melody, which evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing. The instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and gentle percussion, creates a warm and intimate atmosphere that perfectly captures the song’s emotional depth.
Keith’s lyrics are both relatable and evocative, as he explores universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. The chorus, with its haunting refrain of “I’m not as good as I once was, but I’m better than I’ll ever be,” serves as a poignant reminder that life is a journey filled with both triumphs and setbacks.
**As Good As I Once Was** is a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Keith’s heartfelt performance and the song’s evocative lyrics make it a classic in the country music genre.
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Lyrics
She said I seen you in here before
I said I been here a time or two
She said “Hello my name is Bobby Jo,
Meet my twin sister Betty Lou
And we’re both feelin’ kinda wild tonight
You’re the only cowboy in this place
And if you’re up for a rodeo
I’ll put a big Texas smile on your face”
I said “Girls…”
I ain’t as good as I once was
I got a few years on me now
But there was a time, back in my prime
When I could really lay it down
If you need some love tonight
Then I might have just enough
I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
I still hang out with my best friend Dave
I’ve known him since we were kids at school
Last night he had a few shots, got in a tight spot
Hustlin’ a game of pool
With a couple of redneck boys
One great big fat biker man
I heard David yell across the room
“Hey buddy, how ’bout a helpin’ hand”
I said “Dave…”
I ain’t as good as I once was
My how the years have flown
But there was a time, back in my prime
When I could really hold my own
If you want to fight tonight
Guess them boys don’t look all that tough
I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
I used to be hell on wheels
Back when I was a younger man
Now my body says “You can’t do this boy”
But my pride says “Oh yes, you can”
I ain’t as good as I once was
That’s just the cold hard truth
I still throw a few back, talk a little smack
When I’m feelin’ bullet proof
So don’t double-dog dare me now
‘Cause I’d have to call your bluff
I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was
May not be good as I once was, but I’m as good once
As I ever was