Mockingbird-Toby Keith and his daughter Krystal

About the song

Toby Keith’s “Mockingbird,” a delightful duet with his daughter Krystal, is a testament to the enduring power of family, music, and the American songbook. Released in 2004 as part of Keith’s Greatest Hits 2 compilation, this track offers a fresh and heartwarming rendition of a classic tune that has captivated audiences for generations.

The original “Mockingbird,” penned by the Foxx siblings and popularized by James Taylor and Carly Simon, is a playful, call-and-response number often associated with childhood innocence and the special bond between siblings. Keith’s decision to record the song with his daughter adds a unique layer of personal significance, transforming the track into a touching tribute to their father-daughter relationship.

One of the most striking aspects of Keith and Krystal’s version is the seamless blend of their voices. Toby’s deep, resonant baritone provides a sturdy foundation, while Krystal’s clear, bright soprano adds a touch of youthful exuberance. Their harmonies are both complementary and contrasting, creating a rich and textured sound that is both familiar and fresh.

The song’s arrangement is equally noteworthy. The production is understated, allowing the vocals and lyrics to take center stage. The backing instrumentation, featuring a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, piano, and a steady rhythm section, provides a warm and inviting atmosphere. The overall feel is one of relaxed comfort, reminiscent of a cozy evening spent around a campfire.

Lyrically, “Mockingbird” is a simple yet effective celebration of family and love. The song’s verses present a series of promises and gifts, each designed to bring joy to the listener. While the lyrics may seem straightforward, they are imbued with a deep sense of affection and nostalgia. The imagery is vivid and evocative, painting a picture of a happy and carefree childhood.

The song’s call-and-response structure is another element that contributes to its appeal. This musical device creates a sense of dialogue between the performers and the listener, inviting the audience to participate in the performance. The playful banter between father and daughter adds a lighthearted touch, making the song both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

“Mockingbird” is more than just a catchy tune. It is a testament to the enduring power of music to connect people across generations and cultures. The song’s universal themes of love, family, and nostalgia resonate with listeners of all ages. By choosing to record a cover of such a beloved classic, Toby Keith has not only paid homage to his musical heroes but has also created a new and enduring version of a timeless song.

In conclusion, “Mockingbird” is a delightful and heartwarming duet that showcases the talents of both Toby Keith and Krystal Keith. The song’s timeless appeal, coupled with its personal significance, makes it a standout track on Keith’s Greatest Hits 2 compilation. Whether you are a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate well-crafted pop songs, “Mockingbird” is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Video

Lyrics

Mock
(Yeah)
Ing
(Yeah)
Bird
(Yeah)
Yeah, oh yeah

Mockingbird
Now everybody, have you heard
(Everybody, have you heard)
He’s gonna buy me a mockingbird
(I’m gonna buy her a mockingbird)
And if that mockingbird don’t sing
(If that mockingbird don’t sing)
He’s gonna buy me a diamond ring
(I’m gonna buy her a diamond ring)

And if that diamond ring won’t shine
(If that diamond ring don’t shine)
Oh, he’s surely gonna break this heart of mine
(Surely, it’s gonna break this heart of mine)
And that’s why I keep on tellin’ everybody sayin’
(That’s why, yes indeed, oh oh, yes indeed, oh)
(Yeah yeah)
Oh oh oh oh oh oh

Hear me now and understand
(Hear me now, understand)
He’s gonna find me some peace of mind
(I’m gonna find her some peace of mind)
And if that peace of mind don’t stay
(If that peace of mind won’t stay)

I’m gonna buy myself a better way
(I’m gonna buy myself a better way)
And if that better way ain’t so
(And if that better way ain’t so)
I’ll ride with the tide and go with the flow
And that’s why I keep on shoutin’ in your ear sayin’
(That’s why, yes indeed, oh, oh, yes indeed, oh)
(Yeah, yeah)
Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh

Mocking bird
Now move over
Let me show you how this is done, baby
Yeah right, quit big leaguin’ me

I said now, everybody have you heard
(Everybody, have you heard)
She’s gonna buy me a mockingbird
(He’s gonna buy me a mockingbird)
Yeah, if that mockingbird don’t sing
(And if that mockingbird don’t sing)
She’s gonna buy me a diamond ring
(He’s gonna buy me a diamond ring)

Hey, if that diamond ring won’t shine
(And if that diamond ring won’t shine)
Hey, it’ll surely break this heart of mine
(It’s surely goin’ to break this heart of mine, heart of mine)
And that’s the reason why I keep on tellin’ everybody, sayin’
(That’s why)
(Yeah, yeah)
Oh oh oh oh oh oh

Hear me now and understand
(Hear me now, understand)
She’s gonna buy me some peace of mind
(He’s gonna buy me some peace of mind)
Yeah, and if that peace of mind won’t stay
(And if that peace of mind don’t stay)
I’m just gonna get myself a better way
(I’m gonna get myself a better way)

I might rise above, I might go below
Ride with the tide and go with the flow
And that’s the reason why
(That’s why)
I keep on shoutin’ in your ear, sayin’
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Oh no no no no no, wow wow wow, no no
(Oh oh oh oh)

Mockingbird
Yeah, I might rise above, go below
(Yeah, I might go below)
Ride with the tide and go with the flow
(Yes, and go with the flow)
And that’s the reason why
(And that’s why)
Oh I’m shouting in your ear sayin’
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Oh no no no no no