About the song
“Who’s That Man” is a poignant country ballad written and recorded by Toby Keith, released in July 1994 as the lead single from his album “Boomtown.” The song resonated deeply with audiences, becoming Keith’s second number one hit on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.
**Content**
The song’s narrative revolves around a man who returns to his former home, only to discover that his ex-wife and children still reside there. However, his former role as husband and father has been replaced by another man, who now fills the void left by the narrator. The lyrics poignantly explore themes of loss, regret, and longing as the narrator grapples with the emotional impact of seeing his former life move on without him.
**Music Video**
Directed by Marc Ball, the music video for “Who’s That Man” premiered on CMT on July 21, 1994. The video captures the essence of the song’s narrative, featuring Keith driving through an old neighborhood and reflecting on his past while singing and playing guitar in a dimly lit room. Throughout the video, poignant scenes unfold as a family—comprising a man, woman, and children—engages in everyday activities, highlighting the bittersweet reality of the narrator’s changed circumstances.
**Chart Performance**
“Who’s That Man” debuted on the country chart at number 74 in July 1994 and steadily climbed over the following weeks. It reached its peak position at number one on the chart dated October 8, 1994, where it remained for one week. The song’s chart success underscored its emotional resonance with listeners and solidified Toby Keith’s standing as a storyteller capable of capturing complex human emotions through his music.
Overall, “Who’s That Man” remains a standout in Toby Keith’s discography, celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, soulful delivery, and its ability to evoke a deep emotional response from listeners. The song’s enduring popularity underscores its status as a classic in the realm of country music storytelling.
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?)