Introduction
As Good As I Once Was: A Nostalgic Country Anthem by Toby Keith
“As Good as I Once Was” is a standout track in Toby Keith’s discography, released in May 2005 as the second single from his album Honkytonk University. Co-written with longtime collaborator Scotty Emerick, the song humorously portrays a middle-aged man’s reflections on his waning youth and vitality. The memorable line, “I ain’t as good as I once was, but I’m as good once as I ever was,” encapsulates the song’s theme of embracing aging with a blend of self-deprecation and pride. This phrase was inspired by actor Burt Reynolds, who popularized it in the 1980s, and was frequently quoted by Keith’s father, Hubert K. Covel Jr.
The accompanying music video, directed by Michael Salomon, adds a comedic layer to the song’s narrative. It features Keith in a bar setting, facing challenges that test his claim of still being able to keep up with younger men. From attempting to impress a pair of women to getting involved in a bar fight, the video highlights the gap between youthful confidence and middle-aged reality in a lighthearted manner.
Critically acclaimed, “As Good as I Once Was” became one of Keith’s most successful singles, spending six weeks atop the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It was also named BMI’s Song of the Year in 2006. The song’s enduring popularity was evident when it re-entered the charts following Keith’s passing in February 2024.
“As Good as I Once Was” remains a defining piece of Toby Keith’s legacy, showcasing his ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling, resonating with audiences navigating the complexities of aging.