About the song
Buckle up for one wild journey across modern America with Toby Keith’s “American Ride”—a song that doesn’t just play in your ears, but grabs you by the collar and pulls you straight into the chaos, contradictions, and character of contemporary American life. Released in 2009, this energetic country anthem is both a satirical rollercoaster and a loving nod to the land of the free, blending humor with sharp cultural observations.
From the first guitar riff, Keith sets the tone for what feels like a high-speed drive through a nation of paradoxes. He doesn’t hold back—poking fun at politics, media, pop culture, and consumerism, all while riding the pulse of a country that’s changing faster than most can keep up with. With lyrics like “Plasma getting bigger, Jesus getting smaller”, Keith challenges listeners to take a good look in the rearview mirror, even as the future barrels toward them at full speed.
But beneath the sarcasm lies something deeper: a kind of weary admiration for America’s relentless momentum. It’s not just a list of complaints—it’s a portrait of a country that Keith clearly knows and loves, even when it drives him crazy. His gritty vocals and that unmistakable country twang bring authenticity to every line, making you laugh one moment and nod in recognition the next.
The chorus—“It’s a wild, wild ride”—perfectly captures the essence of the American experience: messy, loud, confusing, and full of contradictions, but also uniquely thrilling. It’s this blend of critique and celebration that gives the song its staying power. Whether you agree with Keith or not, you can’t help but feel the power of his message.
“American Ride” is more than just a song—it’s a snapshot of a nation in motion. So, if you’re ready for a fast-paced, no-holds-barred take on the modern American dream, this track is the perfect soundtrack. Hang on tight. It’s gonna be a bumpy ride.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
Winter gettin’ colder, summer gettin’ warmer
Tidal wave come across the Mexican border
Why buy a gallon, it’s cheaper by the barrel
Just don’t get busted singin’ Christmas carols[Chorus]
That’s us, that’s right
Gotta love this American ride
Both ends of the ozone burnin’
Funny how the world keeps turnin’
Look ma, no hands
I love this American ride
Gotta love this American ride[Verse 2]
Momma gets her rocks off watchin’ Desperate Housewives
Daddy works his ass off payin’ for the good life
Kids on the YouTube learning how to be cool
Livin’ in a cruel world, pays to be a mean girl[Chorus]
That’s us, that’s right
Gotta love this American ride
Both ends of the ozone burnin’
Funny how the world keeps turnin’
Look ma, no hands
I love this American ride
Gotta love this American ride
See upcoming country shows
Get tickets for your favorite artistsYou might also like
Tough
Quavo & Lana Del Rey
Born in the U.S.A.
Bruce Springsteen
L’AMOUR DE MA VIE
Billie Eilish[Verse 3]
Poor little infamous, America’s town
She gained five pounds and lost her crown
Quick fix plastic surgical antidote
Got herself a record deal, can’t even sing a note[Verse 4]
Plasma gettin’ bigger, Jesus getting smaller
Spill a cup of coffee, make a million dollars
Customs caught a thug with an aerosol can
If the shoe don’t fit, the fits gonna hit the shan[Outro]
That’s us, that’s right
Gotta love this American ride
Both ends of the ozone burning
Funny how the world keeps turning
Hot dog, hot damn
I love this American ride
Gotta love this American ride
Oh, yeah[Outro]
Na na na na na na na na na na na na na na na na na na nananananananana
