Toby Keith, the country music icon who brought us hits like “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” “Who’s Your Daddy?,” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” “Beer for My Horses,” and “Made in America,” has passed away at the age of 62.
His official website and social media channels announced his passing early Tuesday, stating, “Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”
— Toby Keith (@tobykeith) February 6, 2024
Keith had been living with stomach cancer, which he publicly announced in June 2022. Despite his illness, he continued to make significant contributions to the music industry.
In September of the same year, he received the Country Icon Award at the People’s Choice Country Awards, where he spoke about the “roller coaster” experience of going through treatment. During his acceptance speech, he said, “I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax.”
In one of his final interviews, Toby Keith remained optimistic amid his battle with cancer. He continued to record and perform through his illness, appearing live over three nights in Las Vegas in December. Visibly thin but in good voice, Keith sang many of his 32 No. 1 hits and 42 Top 10 hits. His most recent album, “100% Songwriter,” was released in November.
Keith was known not only for his music but also for his larger-than-life personality. He was a staple in the country music scene, with his music often reflecting his patriotic spirit. This was evident in his performance at President Donald Trump’s inauguration concert at Washington’s Lincoln Memorial in 2017.
In addition to his music career, Keith also ventured into acting. He starred in TV commercials for Telecom USA and Ford and featured in the 2006 film Broken Bridges, where he played Bo Price, a washed-up country musician. He also wrote and starred in the 2008 movie Beer for My Horses, based on his 2003 hit with Willie Nelson.
Keith worked as a roughneck in the oil fields of Oklahoma as a young man, then played semi-pro football before launching his career as a singer.
Keith’s passing is a significant loss to the music industry, particularly the country music scene. His contributions to music and his larger-than-life personality will continue to be remembered by his fans and fellow musicians. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the life and legacy of Toby Keith, a true country music icon.
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