Introduction
“Love Me If You Can” is a country song recorded by American artist Toby Keith, released in June 2007 as the second single from his album Big Dog Daddy. Written by Chris Wallin and Craig Wiseman, the song marked a significant point in Keith’s career, becoming his 16th number one hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and his first since founding his own label, Show Dog Nashville, in 2005.
The song presents a mid-tempo ballad where Keith reflects on personal convictions and the complexities of public perception. Lyrically, it touches on themes such as the necessity of war, the importance of peace, social responsibility, and the challenges of standing by one’s beliefs in the face of criticism . The recurring line, “Hate me if you want to, love me if you can,” encapsulates the essence of the song, emphasizing the idea of remaining true to oneself despite differing opinions.
The music video, directed by Michael Salomon, was released on July 3, 2007, complementing the song’s introspective nature. “Love Me If You Can” resonated with audiences, showcasing Toby Keith’s ability to blend traditional country themes with contemporary issues, and solidifying his position in the country music landscape .