Riley Green, the acclaimed country artist, is honouring his late idol Toby Keith with the release of his new single “Think as You Drunk.” This touching tribute, released on May 29, draws inspiration from Keith’s well-loved drinking songs and even includes a segment of Keith’s iconic 2005 track “As Good as I Once Was” in its outro. The nostalgic collaboration marks not only a heartfelt gesture towards Keith, who passed away in 2024, but also showcases the lasting influence he had on Green’s musical journey.
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At 37 years of age, Green has long admired Keith, who was a major figure in country music until his death at 62 from stomach cancer. Speaking to Billboard, Green shared just how pivotal Keith’s songwriting has been in shaping his own. “The best compliment I can give a song is, ‘Man, this feels like a Toby Keith song,’” he remarked. This sincere appreciation illustrates the deep connection Green has to the genre and its stars, with Keith being a significant source of inspiration.
The new single emerged remarkably quickly, with Green noting that it took him only 20 minutes to compose. Demonstrating his nimble songwriting skills, he immediately recognised the potential for the song to resonate with Keith’s legacy. After presenting the track to Keith’s family and manager, Green received positive feedback, with both expressing their belief that it effectively paid homage to the late country star. They were also enthusiastic about featuring Keith’s distinctive vocal on the track.
The decision to include “As Good as I Once Was” was particularly meaningful for Green, who shared a personal anecdote. His father used to joke that the song was about him, adding an extra layer of sentiment to the inclusion. “It’s really a full-circle moment for me to have Toby’s vocal on that song,” Green explained, a sentiment that undoubtedly resonates with many fans of both artists. The melding of their musical styles creates a bridge between generations of country music lovers.
In addition to being a tribute, “Think as You Drunk” is a collaborative effort on which Keith and his co-writer Scotty Emerick are credited alongside Green and his co-writers Jessi Alexander, Erik Dylan, and Wyatt McCubbin. The original “As Good as I Once Was” was a major hit for Keith, solidifying his place in country music history by topping the charts and even achieving crossover success, reaching No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100.
In a commendable gesture, a portion of the proceeds from Green’s latest single will be donated to the Toby Keith Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting paediatric cancer patients. This initiative not only demonstrates Green’s commitment to social causes but also emphasises the legacy Keith left behind. Known for his philanthropic efforts, Keith often engaged with charitable organisations, and Green’s actions serve as a fitting continuation of that spirit.
Green’s enthusiasm for Keith has been evident in previous interviews, especially following his recognition as the Sexiest Country Star Alive in PEOPLE’s annual poll. Reflecting on this accolade, he amusingly noted, “You remember ‘How Do You Like Me Now?!’ Toby Keith? That was playing in my head over and over,” showcasing how deeply Keith’s influence permeates his life and career.
“Think as You Drunk” is set to feature on Green’s forthcoming fourth album, “That’s Just Me,” which is scheduled for release on September 18. Fans are eager for more of Green’s engaging storytelling and musicality, with this single promising to blend personal reflection with the buoyant spirit of a celebratory anthem—a fitting tribute to an artist whose impact continues to resonate within the country music scene.
As the industry continues to mourn the loss of Toby Keith, “Think as You Drunk” stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and the enduring relationships formed through music. Through this new release, Riley Green not only honours a personal hero but also invites listeners to celebrate the joys of life, friendship, and the memories tied to an unforgettable musical figure.