Toby Keith, one of country music’s biggest stars, died last night (February 5, 2024). The legendary singer-songwriter and musician had revealed in 2022 that he was battling stomach cancer. The news of his death in Oklahoma at age 62 was announced on his various social media platforms with a message that noted, “He fought his fight with grace and courage.” As recently as December 2023, Keith had performed several concerts in Las Vegas. Tributes for the musician appear below.
— Toby Keith (@tobykeith) February 6, 2024
Keith was bestowed the National Medal of Arts in 2021, to honor his artistic achievements and contributions to the arts and culture of America. He earned his first of 20 U.S. number one singles with his very first release, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” in 1993. His songwriting was recognized by his 2015 induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in New York and his 2021 induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Keith has sold more than 40 million albums. His other #1 hits include “Who’s That Man,” “Me Too,” “How Do You Like Me Now?!” (his first to successfully crossover to the Hot 100, where it reached #31), “You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This,” “I’m Just Talkin’ About Tonight,” “Courtesy of the Red, White, & Blue (The Angry American),” “Who’s Your Daddy?,” “Beer For My Horses” (with Willie Nelson), “I Love This Bar,” “American Soldier,” “Whiskey Girl,” “As Good As I Once Was,” “She Never Cried in Front of Me,” “God Love Her,” and “Made in America.” Keith received seven Grammy Award nominations during his career, but never won.
“I’ve had a lot of fun singing with Toby. He’s one of us…” Rest in peace, Toby. pic.twitter.com/7FI45X5W7V
— Willie Nelson (@WillieNelson) February 6, 2024
One unexpected highlight was a most impactful viral event, “Red Solo Cup,” the video for which has received nearly 70 million views and was named ACM Video of the Year.
His numerous USO tours enhanced the lives of more than 250,000 troops and military families in 18 countries with more than 285 events and has been recognized with the Spirit of the USO Award in 2014.
It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Toby Keith, a beloved friend and supporter of the USO. Our hearts are with Toby’s family, friends, and fans. Rest in peace dear friend. pic.twitter.com/85nXDVO5ks
— USO (@The_USO) February 6, 2024
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) February 6, 2024
Jimmy Webb wrote, “Our hearts are heavy. We loved this man who had the personality of a superhero and the heart of a playful child. He fought so hard….”
Just waking up to the news of Toby Keith’s passing. Today is a sad day for Country music and its fans. Toby was a huge presence in our business and someone we all looked up to and respected. You and your music will be forever remembered big man. pic.twitter.com/M2RwMUFdKx
— Jason Aldean (@Jason_Aldean) February 6, 2024
Tanya Tucker wrote, in part, “He was so kind, patriotic, loved his country, loved his fans.”
Toby Keith has gone home … This is very sad news … We loved and respected him on every level and whispered many a prayer for him as he fought this illness. God must have needed a big hearted Oklahoma singing boy for the great choir. Well, he got one #RIPTobyKeith pic.twitter.com/cBjybvnxwP
— The Oak Ridge Boys (@oakridgeboys) February 6, 2024
CMT is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of country legend Toby Keith. Our hearts go out to his wife, Tricia, his children, and loved ones during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/PQm8VedKK6
— CMT (@CMT) February 6, 2024
The family of the late Loretta Lynn shared a tribute to Keith.
Country music is a family unto itself, and today our family hurts. Toby Keith was authentic country and a tremendous songwriter. Loretta loved both these things about him. Our family and the country music world grieves.
We will miss you, Toby. Join us in praying for his family. pic.twitter.com/tvoO9324KH
— Loretta Lynn (@LorettaLynn) February 6, 2024
Denise and I are saddened to hear about our friend @TobyKeith. Our prayers are with Tricia and the entire Keith family. – AJ pic.twitter.com/GGfjk1sf3y
— Alan Jackson (@OfficialJackson) February 6, 2024
Don McLean wrote, “I admire the way Toby battled this awful illness. He released new music, and he was on stage at the end. There is nothing coming along to replace people like him.”
Even though I knew about your battle these last few months I still never imagined this day. Anyone who knew you knows what I mean. You were the toughest man I ever met. Thank you brother for being a friend, a hero and an inspiration. There will never be another Toby Keith.
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) February 6, 2024
Doug Gray, founding member and lead vocalist of the Marshall Tucker Band wrote, “We are saddened to hear of the passing of the great Toby Keith. What an amazing talent. We lost another Real Cowboy! Gone too soon but we know where he is. Ride in Peace, TK.”
A troubadour gone too soon… @tobykeith pic.twitter.com/xN1dlYd1wY
— Brooks & Dunn (@BrooksAndDunn) February 6, 2024
Remembering Toby Keith. ❤️
Forever a part of the #OUFamily. pic.twitter.com/jMJM6DDYhg
— Univ. of Oklahoma (@UofOklahoma) February 6, 2024
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the @TobyKeith family. May God give you comfort and peace.” — George & Norma Strait and Family
— George Strait (@GeorgeStrait) February 6, 2024
We loved the times @tobykeith played this stage, including most recently when he visited the Opry House to accept the first-ever People’s Choice Icon Award.
Toby’s music will live on forever, and we’re remembering alongside his many friends and his family. Thank you, Toby. pic.twitter.com/Bccl2GiX0W
— Grand Ole Opry (@opry) February 6, 2024
I found myself awake at 1:48am when I learned of Toby Keith’s passing. Gone too soon. I had the privilege of working with Toby Keith when recording our Stars and Stripes album. Toby’s big booming voice brought Be True to Your School to life in ways I’d never imagined. Toby was… pic.twitter.com/ZVm4qgO5o3
— Mike Love (@MikeLoveOFCL) February 7, 2024
Our self titled debuts came out on the same day, April 20, 1993… @tobykeith and I spent quite a bit of time together early in our careers…..We had a lot of good times and conversations about what we wanted out of our careers and our lives. He was a maverick. He did things his… pic.twitter.com/XZyc1pyRML
— Tim McGraw (@TheTimMcGraw) February 6, 2024
I’m broken hearted by the news of my friend Toby Keith’s passing. We shared many stages together & a deep love of the music business & the people in it. He was an amazing singer, songwriter, & performer. You will truly be missed my friend. I’ll see you on the other side. pic.twitter.com/S1VBfkanJQ
— Tracy Lawrence (@tracy_lawrence) February 6, 2024
“I was saddened to hear of Toby Keith’s passing. He loved God, he loved his family, and he was a true Patriot, he loved America. A friend to so many, including myself! Rest dear brother, you’re home at last!” – Ricky Skaggs
Full quote: https://t.co/cAwAf3DnxK pic.twitter.com/c37qAcBZbM
— Ricky Skaggs (@RickySkaggs) February 6, 2024
