Introduction
🏈 Remember When Country Star Toby Keith and QB Troy Aikman Released A Song Together?
When you mention Toby Keith, people instantly think of patriotic hits, sold-out shows, and an unyielding country-rock spirit. When you mention Troy Aikman, it’s three Super Bowl rings, on-field dominance, and the undisputed icon of the Dallas Cowboys. Few people realize that these two legends—one of music, one of sport—once had a unique musical collaboration, a rare track that many fans have forgotten.
That song was titled “Two Pairs of Levis,” and it stands as a fascinating testament to a deep friendship and the cultural crossover between Nashville and the NFL.
The Little-Known Collaboration
“Two Pairs of Levis” is a deeply traditional country track featured on one of Toby Keith’s albums. However, the special element was the participation of Troy Aikman. While Aikman is not a professional singer, he contributed backing vocals and even delivered a short spoken-word section within the song, adding a surprising and authentic flavor to the tune.
The relationship between Toby Keith and Troy Aikman extended far beyond professional bounds. Both were massive, high-profile figures in the ’90s and 2000s, known for their strong American spirit and loyalty to their roots. This collaboration is believed to have originated spontaneously, as a gift between two close friends, rather than a major commercial endeavor.
More Than Just a Song
Although “Two Pairs of Levis” was not a blockbuster hit like “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” or “Should’ve Been a Cowboy”, for dedicated fans, it remains a true hidden gem. This track is more than just music; it’s a confluence of sports culture and country music.
Troy Aikman, the legendary former quarterback, showed humility in his participation. He wasn’t trying to become a country music star but simply taking part in a fun project with his friend. It is a rare occurrence for a legendary quarterback to participate in a country recording, especially with a star of Toby Keith’s stature.
Interestingly, Toby Keith’s classic hit, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” was famously customized numerous times to pay tribute to the Dallas Cowboys. Keith once sang a special version for Monday Night Football, in which he changed the lyrics to honor Cowboys heroes like Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman himself:
“I should’ve been a Cowboy… Stealing the young girls’ hearts, just like Rog and Troy, Playing for America’s team, oh, I should’ve been a Cowboy.”
The synergy between these two legends, whether through a small recording or through on-stage tributes, serves as a powerful reminder of the special intersection between the Southern sports spirit and the soul of country music.