About The Song
On November 22, 1999, Toby Keith released “How Do You Like Me Now?!” as the second single from his fifth studio album. The song swiftly soared high, ranking No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart – where it spent five weeks atop. It also marked his first crossover success on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 31.
Written by Toby Keith and renowned country music songwriter Chuck Cannon, “How Do You Like Me Now?!” tells the story of a man remembering his high school years being the “crazy one” trying to get the attention of the perfect girl. However, she consistently ignored him. She even made fun of him when he took off to Tennessee.
Fast forward to many years later, he finds himself wondering what she thinks of him now that he has become a country star.
On his website in 2000, Keith talked about what inspired the song. Keith knew many individuals achieved success despite being told they never would, making this song relatable for many. “It can be about an old flame or a boss or a teacher – whatever it means to each individual,” he said, adding that he had fun writing the tune.
Well, it’s time to crank up the volume and dive into the world of Toby Keith’s “How Do You Like Me Now?!” It’s a musical journey that might just strike a chord with your soul. Play the video below, and let the lyrics weave their magic!
Today, it remains one of the most popular hits by Toby Keith. In fact, after his passing on February 5, 2024, “How Do You Like Me Now?!” re-entered Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart at No. 23.
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
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