Introduction:
Cruisin’ with Toby Keith: A Look Back at “Big Ol’ Truck”
“Big Ol’ Truck,” a country anthem synonymous with Toby Keith, rumbles onto the scene with a simple premise: a man, his truck, and a desire to win over a girl. But beneath the surface of this lighthearted song lies a deeper connection to Keith’s early career and the themes that would solidify him as a country music powerhouse.
Released in July 1995, “Big Ol’ Truck” was the final single from Keith’s sophomore album, “Boomtown.” The album itself came on the heels of a hugely successful debut, driven by the chart-topping hit “Should’ve Been a Cowboy.” “Boomtown” continued that momentum, going platinum and solidifying Keith’s status as a rising star.
While not achieving the same level of chart success as some of its album mates (“Who’s That Man” reached number one), “Big Ol’ Truck” resonated with audiences. The song captured the essence of country life – the reliance on a trusty truck, the open road, and the pursuit of love.
The music video, directed by Marc Ball, portrays this perfectly. Keith is seen performing with his band at a lively outdoor gathering, interspersed with scenes of him trying to impress a woman in a pickup truck. It’s a simple yet relatable storyline, mirroring the themes within the song itself.
“Big Ol’ Truck” may not have been Keith’s biggest hit, but it offered a glimpse into the relatable persona that would become his trademark. It laid the groundwork for future anthems that celebrated blue-collar work ethic, small-town life, and a love for all things American – themes that continue to resonate with country music fans today.
So, as the opening guitar riff of “Big Ol’ Truck” rings out, prepare to be transported to a world of small-town charm, where a big ol’ truck might just be the key to winning someone’s heart.