Toby Keith on the Deadline That Almost Stopped His Career | News | CMT

About the Song

Ah, summertime. The days stretch long and lazy, the evenings filled with the chirping of crickets and the warm glow of fireflies. But sometimes, even on those idyllic nights, sleep can be elusive. That’s the theme explored in Toby Keith’s country ballad, “Tossin’ And Turnin'”.

Released in 2018, the song might not be one of Toby Keith’s greatest hits, but it certainly captures a relatable feeling – that restless night when sleep just won’t come. Keith, a seasoned country artist known for his rough-and-tumble persona and patriotic anthems, takes a softer approach here.

“Tossin’ And Turnin'” is a slower tempo song, the kind you might hear on a late-night country radio show. The gentle strum of the acoustic guitar sets the mood, a familiar comfort against the backdrop of a sleepless night.

This song isn’t about grand themes or epic stories. It’s about the simple struggles we all face – the frustration of counting sheep well past midnight, the longing for cool sheets and a quiet mind. It’s a song that evokes memories of those nights spent staring at the ceiling, the worries and anxieties of the day refusing to fade.

But there’s also a touch of humor in “Tossin’ And Turnin'”. Keith’s signature baritone voice delivers lines like “If I sound a little scared, well I’m much too aware of the moon,” with a hint of playful sarcasm. We’ve all been there, haven’t we? Those nights when the shadows seem to dance on the wall and every creak of the floorboard sounds like a monster.

“Tossin’ And Turnin'” might not be a foot-stomping anthem, but it’s a song that resonates with anyone who’s ever had a sleepless night. It’s a reminder that even the toughest cowboys and cowgirls can struggle to catch some Zzz’s now and then. So, put on your favorite pair of well-worn jeans, grab a glass of sweet tea, and settle in for a listen to Toby Keith’s relatable ode to a sleepless summer night.

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