Should've Been a Cowboy': Toby Keith Reflects on 25th Anniversary of His Breakthrough Hit | Billboard

About the Song

Toby Keith, a name synonymous with country music for over three decades. Now, for many of us, Toby’s music brings back memories of dirt roads, summertime picnics, and maybe a little bit of two-steppin’. But beneath that gruff exterior and the songs about trucks and patriotism, there’s a softer side to Toby Keith. Today, we’re going to delve into that side with a song titled Tender As I Wanna Be.

Released in 2009 on his album American Ride, Tender As I Wanna Be shows a different side of Toby. This ballad is a heartfelt ode to love and commitment, a far cry from some of his rowdier anthems. It’s a song that resonates with those of us who’ve been around a bit longer, who’ve maybe learned a lesson or two about love and life. It speaks to the challenges of relationships, the unexpected tenderness that can bloom, and the enduring strength it takes to make love last.

So, whether you’re a longtime Toby Keith fan or just discovering his music, Tender As I Wanna Be is a song worth giving a listen. It’s a reminder that even the toughest cowboys have a soft spot, and that sometimes, the most powerful emotions are expressed in the quietest ways. So, settle in, grab your favorite beverage, and let Toby Keith serenade you with a song about the enduring tenderness of love.

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