Introduction
“High Maintenance Woman” is a witty and energetic country single co‑written and performed by Toby Keith, released on February 13, 2007, as the lead single from his eleventh studio album, Big Dog Daddy. Technically penned by Keith, the song credits both Tim Wilson (a comedian‑songwriter) and his frequent collaborator Danny Simpson, a gesture acknowledging their prior work on a conceptually similar tune
Set to a lively mid‑tempo arrangement, the lyrics spin a playful narrative from the vantage point of a lowly maintenance man who finds himself hopelessly attracted to an unattainably “high maintenance” woman. With clever wordplay—like the tongue‑in‑cheek line “a high‑maintenance woman don’t want no maintenance man”—the song leans into colloquial humor while showcasing Keith’s charismatic vocal delivery .
Critics responded positively. Kevin John Coyne of Country Universe praised Keith’s return to form, describing the single as “fantastic,” awarding it an A− and highlighting its smart writing and Keith’s confident-yet-humble performance . Common Sense Media commended the catchy lead guitar and rhythm work, while Entertainment Weekly’s Ken Tucker noted its “memorably clever lyricism” .
The song resonated commercially as well, climbing to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and peaking at No. 67 on the all-genre Hot 100; in Canada, it reached the Top 50 . It also became the first single from Big Dog Daddy—an album that debuted at No. 1 on both the Billboard 200 and Top Country Albums charts, with Keith stepping into the role of sole producer for the first time .
Its music video, directed by Michael Salomon, debuted in early 2007 and features a custom Rockit Guitar created by luthier Rod “Hot Rod” MacKenzie . Combining its playful storytelling, solid musicianship, and strong chart performance, “High Maintenance Woman” stands out as a highlight in Toby Keith’s mid‑career catalogue—blending humor, swagger, and country charm in a compelling package.