About the song
“He Ain’t Worth Missing” is a heartfelt country song written and performed by Toby Keith, released in June 1993 as the second single from his debut self-titled album. Known for its sincere lyrics and mid-tempo melody, the song resonated with audiences, peaking at number 5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and at number 11 on the Canadian RPM country tracks. It also made a modest crossover impact, reaching number 7 on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100.
**Content**
The song tells the story of a narrator who consoles a woman whose relationship has ended. Offering support and a potential new beginning, the narrator suggests that her ex-boyfriend “ain’t worth missing” and subtly hints at his own interest in starting a romance with her. This theme of emotional support and gentle encouragement is underscored by Keith’s soulful delivery and the song’s melodic arrangement.
**Music Video**
Directed by Marc Ball, the music video for “He Ain’t Worth Missing” features Toby Keith performing the song in intimate settings. It begins with a scene of a man playing the piano in a bar, setting a reflective tone. Throughout the video, Keith is seen singing in his bedroom, emphasizing the personal and heartfelt nature of the lyrics. Additionally, there are scenes of Keith at a bar, interacting with a woman who appears distraught over her failed relationship, highlighting the supportive theme of the song.
**Critical Reception**
The song received mixed reviews from critics. Deborah Evans Price of Billboard magazine criticized the song for its lyrical and musical clichés, describing Keith’s effort as “flimsy” and the production as lacking country authenticity, save for the overdubbed pedal steel guitar. Despite these critiques, the song’s emotional appeal and Keith’s vocal delivery resonated strongly with country music fans, contributing to its success on the charts.
**Chart Performance**
“He Ain’t Worth Missing” debuted on the Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart at number 71 on July 3, 1993. It maintained a presence on the charts for 20 weeks, ultimately peaking at number 5 on October 23, 1993. The song’s popularity solidified Toby Keith’s early career success and set the stage for his future as a prominent figure in country music.
In summary, “He Ain’t Worth Missing” remains a significant song in Toby Keith’s repertoire, appreciated for its sincerity, relatable lyrics, and emotive delivery. Its chart success and enduring appeal underscore its status as a classic within the realm of country music storytelling.
Video
Lyrics
He’s flying high tonight
He’s got a brand new lover
Here you come a-runnin’
You’re looking for some cover
I know you’re sad and lonely
I know you’re feeling blue
You miss him so much
Won’t let me get too close to you
Oh, he ain’t worth missing
Oh, we should be kissing
Stop all this foolish wishing
He ain’t worth missing
I know your head is turning
I know your heart is burning
Girl, you gotta listen
Don’t you know he ain’t worth missing
You know I’m here to save you
But you ain’t through crying yet
Look at your pretty face
All red and soaking wet
I’m gonna try and make him
Just a memory
Come on, baby, let’s get started
First thing you got to see
Oh, he ain’t worth missing
Oh, we should be kissing
Stop all this foolish wishing
He ain’t worth missing
I know your head is turning
I know your heart is burning
Girl, you gotta listen
Don’t you know he ain’t worth missing
If you need someone to hold you
Someone to ease your pain
Well, I’ll be holding steady
Girl when you get ready
I’m gonna show you
Love is a good thing
Oh, he ain’t worth missing
Oh, we should be kissing
Stop all this foolish wishing
He ain’t worth missing
I know your head is turning
I know your heart is burning
Girl, you gotta listen
Don’t you know he ain’t worth missing
Oh, he ain’t worth missing
Oh, we should be kissing
Stop all this foolish wishing
He ain’t worth missing
I know your head is turning
I know your heart is burning
Girl, you gotta listen