About the song
In the world of modern country music, few songs have managed to capture both humor and truth quite like Toby Keith’s 2005 mega-hit “As Good As I Once Was.” It’s a track that became an anthem for anyone who’s felt the sting of time slowing them down — but still knows they’ve got one good round left in them. With its clever lyrics, barroom swagger, and relatable theme, the song remains one of Toby Keith’s most beloved works.
Released as the second single from his album Honkytonk University, “As Good As I Once Was” quickly became a fan favorite. Written by Toby Keith and accomplished Nashville songwriter Scotty Emerick, the track is equal parts self-deprecating and confident. It tells the story of a man who might not be as young or wild as he used to be, but when the moment calls for it, he can still rise to the occasion — whether that’s standing up to a barroom challenge or keeping up with an unexpected romantic opportunity.
The song’s genius lies in its conversational style. Keith delivers the verses like a buddy telling you a story over a beer, with punchlines and playful exaggerations keeping things lighthearted. Then comes the unforgettable hook: “I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once as I ever was.” That line resonated with listeners instantly, becoming a catchphrase well beyond the world of country music.
Musically, “As Good As I Once Was” blends honky-tonk energy with a modern country-rock edge. The guitar riffs are crisp, the rhythm steady, and Keith’s deep baritone gives the song a bold, confident tone. It’s the kind of track that feels equally at home blasting from the speakers of a honky-tonk dance hall or a backyard barbecue.
Commercially, the song was a massive success. It climbed all the way to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, where it stayed for six weeks, and earned Toby Keith the Academy of Country Music Award for Song of the Year in 2006. The single also crossed over to mainstream audiences, further cementing Keith’s reputation as one of country music’s biggest stars of the 2000s.
But more than chart positions and awards, “As Good As I Once Was” struck a cultural chord. For many fans, it became a humorous reminder to embrace life’s moments regardless of age. The song celebrates the idea that while time changes our bodies, it doesn’t have to dim our spirit — a message delivered with just the right balance of grit and wit.
Nearly two decades after its release, Toby Keith still performs “As Good As I Once Was” to roaring applause. Fans sing every word, laughing and nodding in recognition of the truth behind the humor. It’s more than just a hit song — it’s a celebration of resilience, confidence, and the joy of proving, at least for one moment, that you’ve still got it.
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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
