About the song
Toby Keith, the larger-than-life figure in country music, has long been celebrated for his knack for blending humor, storytelling, and a healthy dose of rebellion in his songs. With “Wacky Tobaccy,” Keith delivers a lighthearted, tongue-in-cheek ode to a subject that has sparked conversations—and laughter—for generations: marijuana. The track, released in 2017, captures the essence of Keith’s unapologetic approach to music. It’s a playful romp through a theme that has become more relevant in contemporary discourse, yet it carries the same charm and wit that have defined much of his career.
Musically, “Wacky Tobaccy” is as laid-back as its subject matter, with a melody that feels as though it were brewed up on a lazy afternoon with good friends and good vibes. The rhythm is casual, the instrumentation unhurried, and the overall atmosphere intentionally loose. This is a song that doesn’t try to be profound or overly polished; instead, it leans into its simplicity, inviting listeners to sit back and enjoy the ride. The steel guitar and laid-back percussion are quintessentially country, grounding the track in the genre’s traditions even as it pushes boundaries with its lyrical content.
Keith’s vocal delivery is key to the song’s appeal. His deep, resonant drawl exudes warmth and a touch of mischief, making him the perfect narrator for a song that doesn’t take itself too seriously. His knack for conversational phrasing allows “Wacky Tobaccy” to feel like a story being shared around a campfire, complete with knowing winks and hearty chuckles. It’s this approachable tone that makes Keith so endearing to his fans, particularly those who appreciate his ability to mix humor with heartfelt storytelling.
Lyrically, the song is straightforward, even cheeky. It’s an unabashed celebration of a recreational pastime that’s often surrounded by controversy, yet Keith approaches the topic with a sense of fun rather than preachiness. Lines like “You can two tote her, or you can one hit him” are delivered with a grin, perfectly encapsulating the carefree spirit of the song. The inclusion of Willie Nelson—a legendary figure both in music and in the cultural conversation about marijuana—in the accompanying music video only adds to the song’s playful credibility.
But beyond its surface-level humor, “Wacky Tobaccy” also serves as a subtle nod to changing times. In an era when societal attitudes toward marijuana are shifting, Keith’s song feels both nostalgic and current. It’s a reminder of the long-standing connection between country music and storytelling about everyday life, be it the struggles, the joys, or the simple pleasures that bring people together.
“Wacky Tobaccy” might not be a profound ballad or a chart-topping anthem, but it’s quintessential Toby Keith: irreverent, charming, and utterly authentic. For fans of country music who enjoy a good laugh and a bit of honest fun, this track is a delightful addition to Keith’s extensive catalog. In its relaxed, self-assured way, it captures the spirit of an artist who has never been afraid to sing about life as he sees it—quirks and all.
Video
Lyrics
Aw, yeah
Uh-huh
What’s that smell?
Wanda is a woman, she works down the hall
Shows up on time, she like balls to the wall
She went out to lunch with her high school friends
‘Bout three hours later, she came rollin’ back in
Well, the boss man really jumped her
Son, he wasn’t joking
Everybody in the office knew Wanda had been smokin’
That old wacky tobaccy
When you feel it creeping up on you
That old wacky tobaccy
Kick back and let it do what it do
Now you can two tote her, you can one hit him
Puff it in a pipe and you can twist it in a stem
You can bake it in some brownies, smoke it through a bong
Roll up a great big fat one like old Cheech and Chong
Burn it through a hole, in a can of Budweiser
If you can’t take the heat, son, vaporizer
That old wacky tobaccy
When you feel it creeping up on you
That old wacky tobaccy
Kick back and let it do what it do
Now do what you do
Oh, yeah
You got your Mexican and Jamaican with those buds of blue
Humboldt County and Hydroponic too
Okeechobee Purple from down in the South
And that old stuff your uncle smokes will give you cotton mouth
Homegrown is healthy, synthetic can kill you
My all-time favorite, Red Hair Sinsemilla
That old wacky tobaccy
When you feel it creeping up on you
That old wacky tobaccy
Kick back and let it do what it do
Aw, let it do what it do
Yeah, it do
Y’all got any Fritos?
