That’s Not How It Is, a powerful and poignant country rock ballad, was released on August 29, 2002, as the second single from American country music singer Toby Keith’s eleventh studio album, Unleashed. The song, co-written by Keith and Scotty Emerick, emerged in the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks, a period marked by a sense of national grief, anger, and a critical reevaluation of America’s global image.

That’s Not How It Is stands out as a song that challenged the media’s portrayal of the United States in the wake of the tragedy. Keith, a highly successful country music artist known for his outspoken patriotism, took a direct approach in the song’s lyrics. He counters the negativity with a message of resilience and a reminder of the core values that define the nation.

The song resonated deeply with many Americans, striking a chord with those who felt the media narratives did not reflect the true spirit of the country. That’s Not How It Is became a commercial and critical success. It topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles and Tracks chart, climbed to number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and garnered significant radio airplay. The song’s impact extended beyond the charts; it earned a nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance at the 46th Grammy Awards.

That’s Not How It Is remains a significant song in Toby Keith’s catalogue and a notable entry in the annals of country music. It serves as a time capsule of a nation grappling with grief and a testament to the enduring power of music to express collective sentiment during moments of national crisis.

Video: