"[3] Lyrically, "Keeping Score" is a soulful[4] country[5] anthem that stresses the importance of existing in the moment with one another rather than worrying about strategies for accumulating more things.

[2][6] Sounds Like Nashville's Cillea Houghton described the song's message as "important", which was "that time is fleeting and precious, and moments with the ones we love are meant to be cherished".

Reviewing for Rolling Stone, columnist Jon Freeman praised Mooney's soulful melody in joining Clarkson's successful rendition of stratospheric-ally high notes.

[2] In addition to praising the lyrical dexterity and emotional power of the duo, Carena Liptak of The Boot commended the powerhouse combination of Smyers's and Clarkson's vocal prowess that makes the song "a standout track".

[8] Idolator's Mike Nied complimented the track's stripped-back production as "swelling" and its lyrics as "boasting a powerful message", and praised Clarkson's voice as adding a nice dimension to the record.

[1] Reporting for Billboard, Stephen Daw commended the "moving" performance as "nailing every single note and lick" of the track, and wrote that the group, halfway joined by Clarkson, has managed to earn the respect of the already-electrified audience.