Introduction
Released in July 1994, “Who’s That Man” is one of Toby Keith’s most emotionally resonant singles, taken from his second studio album, Boomtown. The song quickly rose to success, becoming Keith’s second No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It marked a significant step in his early career, cementing his ability to deliver deeply personal and relatable storytelling through his music.
Written by Toby Keith himself, “Who’s That Man” reflects the pain of divorce and the sense of displacement that follows. The lyrics describe a man driving past his former home, only to see another man living the life he once had—with his children, in the house he used to call home. The haunting refrain, “Who’s that man runnin’ my life?” captures the raw confusion, loss, and heartbreak experienced by many who have gone through similar situations.
The music video, directed by Marc Ball, underscores the emotional weight of the song, portraying the narrator’s quiet sorrow and helplessness as he observes his former life from a distance. This added a strong visual component that further connected with audiences.
“Who’s That Man” resonated with listeners not just because of its poignant theme, but also because of Keith’s straightforward, honest vocal delivery. At a time when country music was experiencing a shift toward more pop-oriented sounds, Toby Keith’s traditional storytelling and emotional authenticity helped distinguish him as a powerful voice in the genre.
The song’s success contributed significantly to the platinum certification of Boomtown, and it remains a standout in Keith’s early discography. Its raw emotion and universal theme of loss continue to strike a chord with fans, decades after its original release.
Video
Lyrics
Turn left at the old hotel
I know this boulevard much too well
It hasn’t changed since I’ve been gone
Oh, this used to be my way home
They paved the road through the neighborhood
I guess the county finally fixed it good
It was gettin’ rough
Someone finally complained enough
Fight the tears back with a smile
Stop and look for a little while
Oh, it’s plain to see
The only thing missing is me
That’s my house and that’s my car
That’s my dog in my backyard
There’s the window to the room
Where she lays her pretty head
I planted that tree out by the fence
Not long after we moved in
There’s my kids and that’s my wife
But who’s that man running my life?
If I pulled in would it cause a scene?
They’re not really expecting me
Those kids have been through hell
I hear they’ve adjusted well
Turn around in the neighbor’s drive
I’d be hard to recognize
In this pickup truck
It’s just an old fixer up
Drive away one more time
A lot of things runnin’ through my mind
I guess the less things change
The more they never seem the same
That’s my house and that’s my car
That’s my dog in my backyard
There’s the window to the room
Where she lays her pretty head
I planted that tree out by the fence
Not long after we moved in
There’s my kids and that’s my wife
But who’s that man running my life?
Yeah, that’s my house and that’s my car
That’s my dog in my backyard
There’s the window to the room
Where she lays her pretty head
I planted that tree out by the fence
Not long after we moved in
There’s my kids and that’s my wife
But who’s that man running my life?
Who’s that man running my life?
(Who’s that man?)
(Who’s that man?) Who’s that man running my life?
(Who’s that man?) Hmm-mm
(Who’s that man?) Who’s that man running my life?
(Who’s that man?)
(Who’s that man?)