About the song
Toby Keith’s “Get Drunk And Be Somebody”: A Blue-Collar Anthem
Toby Keith has always been a voice for the working class, and “Get Drunk And Be Somebody” is a prime example of his ability to capture the frustrations and aspirations of the everyday man. Released in 2005 as the lead single from his album White Trash with Money, this song quickly became a fan favorite, resonating with listeners who felt a connection to its themes of hard work, escape, and the pursuit of a better life.
At its core, “Get Drunk And Be Somebody” is a blue-collar anthem that celebrates the simple pleasures of life. Keith paints a vivid picture of a typical workweek, filled with long hours and monotonous tasks. The protagonist, feeling unappreciated and undervalued, finds solace and camaraderie in the company of his fellow workers. Together, they escape the pressures of their daily lives by indulging in a few drinks and letting loose.
The song’s lyrics are straightforward and relatable, filled with down-to-earth language and imagery. Keith’s signature gravelly voice adds a layer of authenticity, making it easy for listeners to imagine themselves in the shoes of the characters he describes. Phrases like “the big boss man he likes to crack that whip” and “I ain’t nothing but a number on his timecard slip” capture the sense of powerlessness and alienation that many working-class individuals feel.
While the song’s title may suggest a reckless disregard for consequences, the underlying message is actually quite hopeful. By getting drunk and “being somebody,” the characters in the song are asserting their individuality and reclaiming a sense of control over their lives. It’s a temporary escape, but it’s one that allows them to recharge and come back to work with renewed vigor.
Musically, “Get Drunk And Be Somebody” is a classic country-rock tune with a driving beat and a catchy chorus. The instrumentation is straightforward and effective, with the electric guitar and drums providing a solid foundation for Keith’s vocals. The overall sound is both nostalgic and contemporary, appealing to a wide range of listeners.
In conclusion, Toby Keith’s “Get Drunk And Be Somebody” is a timeless song that speaks to the human experience of feeling overworked and underappreciated. Its relatable lyrics, catchy melody, and authentic performance have ensured its place in the country music canon. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Toby Keith or simply appreciate a good country song, this track is definitely worth checking out.
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Lyrics
Yeah, the big boss man, he likes to crack that whip
I ain’t nothing but a number on his time card slip
I give him 40 hours and a piece of my soul
Puts me somewhere at the bottom of his totem pole
Hell, I don’t even think he knows my name
Hey, all week long I’m a real nobody
But I just punched out and it’s paycheck Friday
Weekend’s here, good God almighty
I’m going to get drunk and be somebody (somebody)
Yeah, yeah, yeah
My baby cuts hair at a beauty boutique
Just blowing and going ’til she dead on her feet
They walk right in and sit right down
She gives them what they want, and she spins them around
Hey, I don’t think they even know her name
All week long, she’s a real nobody
But I just picked her up, and it’s paycheck Friday
Weekend’s here, good God almighty
Baby, let’s get drunk and be somebody (somebody)
Yeah, yeah, yeah
We’re just average people, in an everyday bar
Driving from work in our ordinary cars
And I like to come here with regular Joes
Drink all you want, be the star of the show
All week long, bunch of real nobodies
But we just punched out and it’s paycheck Friday
Weekend’s here, good God almighty
People, let’s get drunk (let’s get drunk)
All week long we’re some real nobodies
But we just punched out, it’s paycheck Friday
Weekend’s here, good God almighty
People, let’s get drunk and be somebody (let’s get drunk)
Yeah, yeah, yeah
