Introduction
“As Good As I Once Was” is a 2005 single by American country music artist Toby Keith, featured on his album Honkytonk University. Released on May 9, 2005, the song was co-written by Keith and Scotty Emerick. It quickly became one of Keith’s most iconic tracks, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for six consecutive weeks and earning BMI’s Country Song of the Year award in 2006 .
The song’s inspiration traces back to a memorable line by actor Burt Reynolds: “You know, I’m not as good as I once was, but I’m as good once as I ever was.” Keith’s father, Hubert K. Covel Jr., often used this phrase, which resonated with Keith and Emerick. They crafted a narrative around a man reflecting on his youthful exploits and asserting that while he may not have the stamina he once did, he still possesses the capability to rise to the occasion when needed.
The accompanying music video, directed by Michael Salomon, humorously depicts Keith navigating situations that test his aging bravado, including barroom brawls and romantic advances. The video’s comedic approach, combined with Keith’s charismatic performance, contributed to its popularity, amassing over 164 million views by late 2024 .
“As Good As I Once Was” stands as a testament to Keith’s ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling, capturing the essence of aging with grace and confidence. The song remains a staple in his repertoire, celebrated for its wit and relatability.