About the song
When you think of Toby Keith, you think of a voice that speaks for everyday Americans — strong, proud, and heartfelt. His song “Ballad of Balad,” released in 2009, is no exception. This powerful track captures the raw emotions and realities faced by U.S. soldiers stationed in the Middle East, specifically in Balad, Iraq. It’s not just a song; it’s a living snapshot of a time, a place, and a spirit that refuses to be forgotten.
From the very first notes, Keith transports listeners to a military base half a world away. “Ballad of Balad” is full of vivid imagery: dusty barracks, the constant hum of helicopters, the tight-knit bonds among soldiers who become each other’s family in the harshest of conditions. Keith doesn’t romanticize war — instead, he honors the strength, humor, and resilience of those who serve. There’s a remarkable honesty to the lyrics; they acknowledge the hardship and sacrifice without falling into despair. In fact, much of the song is infused with the wry humor that soldiers use to get through tough days.
Musically, the track leans into Keith’s classic country roots with a touch of gritty realism. The instrumentation is straightforward — guitars, drums, and that unmistakable, no-frills voice — allowing the story to take center stage. It’s a storytelling style that’s deeply American, echoing the tradition of the folk ballad while bringing it firmly into the modern era.
What makes “Ballad of Balad” so compelling is its authenticity. Toby Keith visited troops overseas multiple times, and this song feels like it was written by someone who genuinely listened — someone who understood. For listeners, whether or not they have a direct connection to the military, the song offers a window into the courage and camaraderie that define life on a base like Balad.
In the end, “Ballad of Balad” stands as a heartfelt tribute — a musical salute to the men and women who find moments of humanity and hope in even the hardest circumstances. It’s a reminder that behind every headline, there are real lives, real laughter, and real stories worth telling.
Video
Lyrics
I quit school in the 10th grade and I grew out my hair
I got me a job doing lawnmower repair
I met an army recruiter down at the Winn-Dixie
He said “son you’ve no future, pack up and go with me”[Verse 2]
The first place we landed was a base called Ballad
They convoyed our asses to a 10 acre F.O.B
With my boots and my cover and an old M16
Two bottles of water and a cold M.R.E[Chorus]
Oh you’ll meet lots of new friends and you’re sure to get paid
We’ll show you the world and we’ll teach you a trade
It’s not a job, it’s an adventure, oh yes sir I got that
Ah but you never told me I’d get my ass shot at
You never told me I’d get my ass shot at[Verse 3]
The first night in combat we went out on patrol
They ambushed our convey and we chased the asshole
We found them all hiding in low water ditches
And we took aim and killed all them son of a bitches[Chorus]
Oh you’ll meet lots of new friends and you’re sure to get paid
We’ll show you the world and we’ll teach you a trade
It’s not a job, it’s an adventure, oh yes sir I got that
Ah but you never told me I’d get my ass shot at
You never told me I’d get my ass shot at
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[Verse 4]
Walked in on my buddy with a female M.P
The ugliest woman you ever did see
He said “why are you laughing, you got lots of nerve”
Over here in the desert we grade on the curve[Verse 5]
Ah you’ll meet lots of new friends and you’re sure to get paid
We’ll show you the world and we’ll teach you a trade
It’s not a job, it’s an adventure, oh yes sir I got that
Ah but you never told me I’d get my ass shot at
Oh you never told him he’d get his ass shot at
