Toby Keith – 35 MPH Town

About the song

Toby Keith and the All-American Road Trip Anthem: “35 MPH Town”

In the realm of country music, Toby Keith stands as a towering figure, a true icon of the genre. With his gravelly voice, captivating stage presence, and knack for crafting relatable songs that capture the essence of American life, Keith has earned a devoted following and a place among country music’s elite. Among his extensive discography, one song stands out as a quintessential anthem for the open road and the allure of small-town life: “35 MPH Town.”

Released in 1999 as the lead single from his album How Do You Like Me Now, “35 MPH Town” immediately resonated with listeners, topping the Billboard Country charts and cementing its status as a modern country classic. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to transport listeners to a simpler time, evoking the nostalgia of small-town America and the carefree spirit of a bygone era.

A Lyrical Journey Through Americana

The song’s narrative unfolds through the eyes of a narrator reminiscing about his hometown, a sleepy little place where life moves at a leisurely pace. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of this idyllic setting, from the old oak trees lining the main street to the friendly faces that greet passersby with a wave and a smile.

Key takeaways:

• “35 MPH Town” is a country anthem that celebrates the simple pleasures of small-town life.
• The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a sleepy, idyllic town where life moves at a leisurely pace.
• Keith’s vocals and the song’s instrumentation perfectly capture the nostalgic charm of the lyrics.
• “35 MPH Town” has become a staple of Keith’s live performances and a beloved classic of country music.

A Celebration of Small-Town Values

At its core, “35 MPH Town” is a celebration of small-town values, a reminder of the importance of community, family, and the simple joys of life. The song’s narrator finds solace and contentment in the slower pace of life, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.

A Timeless Classic

The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. Whether you hail from a small town or simply yearn for a simpler life, “35 MPH Town” has something to offer everyone. With its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and Keith’s signature vocals, the song remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.

Conclusion

“35 MPH Town” is more than just a song; it’s a state of mind, an ode to the American spirit, and a reminder of the beauty found in the simple things in life. Toby Keith’s masterpiece captures the essence of small-town America, transporting listeners to a place where life moves at a gentler pace and the values of community and connection reign supreme.

Video

Lyrics

“35 MPH Town”

 

Mama locked the door last night for the first time in all of her years
I said mama you gotta be kidding me, she said things ain’t like they used to be round here
You just wouldn’t believe it, kids growing up without Jesus, good thing your daddy ain’t here to see this now
They stay higher than the water tower in this 35 Mile An Hour town

She said it ain’t the drugs, it ain’t the booze, I’ve had a backroad buzz or two, myself
It seems like heaven is slipping further away, the devil ain’t got far to go when they raise hell
We used to burn a hole through midnight, smoking a stolen Marlboro Light and
On a good night might kill a 5th of Crown But now there’s a lower higher power in this 35 MPH town

Oh we can’t blame the babies for growing up lazy
And crazy it ain’t them that let them down
If they ain’t stealing, they’re suing, why work when we’ll give it to ’em
It’s right there in the bible we don’t pull out
Spare the rod and you’ll sour a 35 Mile An Hour town

The “yes mam”‘s gone and the “please” is too,
It’s out the door with the “thank you” and the “Amen”
You don’t see a front yard football game
The neighbor kids have done away with the shirt and skins
No one hits the front porch lights to get the kids to come inside
Cause the streets ain’t safe for a bike to ride down
Since they printed a prowler in this 35 Mile An Hour town
No they’re going nowhere fast tonight no matter how fast they drive this 35 Hour town