Toby Keith – “My List” (2002) 

It’s not about what’s on your list — it’s about what’s missing from it.

Released in January 2002 as the third single from the Pull My Chain album, “My List” marked a softer, more introspective turn for Toby Keith — known at the time for his bold, rough-edged country hits. But here, he traded swagger for stillness, delivering a song that resonated deeply with anyone who’s ever gotten lost in the noise of everyday life.

At its core, “My List” is a simple yet powerful reflection on priorities. The lyrics tell the story of a man consumed by daily tasks — errands to run, things to fix, work to finish. But as he pauses and looks around, he realizes that the most important things in life — family, love, connection — aren’t written on his to-do list. And they should be.

With a gentle melody and Toby’s warm, steady voice, the song becomes a quiet reminder to slow down, to be present, and to cherish what can’t be scheduled or postponed. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t need to be. The message lands with subtle emotional weight: you can always fix the sink tomorrow, but your child won’t always ask you to play catch today.

“My List” went on to become Keith’s seventh No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart — not because it was loud, but because it was true. In a world that often glorifies hustle and productivity, this song gently taps you on the shoulder and says: don’t forget what really matters.

“Under an old brass paperweight is my list of things to do today…”
And maybe the most important thing on that list is learning when to let it go.