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The country music industry is hurting. Country singer Toby Keith, known for hits such as “Red Solo Cup,” “Should Have Been a Cowboy,” and “I Love This Bar,” has passed away. He was 62.
Statement from Family
The singer “passed peacefully” on Monday night his family shared in a statement posted on Instagram. Keith had been battling stomach cancer since his diagnosis in 2022.
“Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on Feb. 5 surrounded by his family,” the statement read. “He fought his fight with grace and courage.”
“Please respect the privacy of his family at this time,” the message concluded.
Toby Keith’s Career
Keith was known for his patriotism in post-9/11 songs like “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue.” He had a powerful booming voice and performed classic love songs and drinking songs. He had 20 No. 1 Billboard hits such as “How Do You Like Me Now?!,” “As Good As I Once Was,” “My List,” and “Beer for My Horses.”
The country singer made an appearance at the People’s Choice Country Awards in September 2023. Keith performed and was awarded the Country Music Icon Award. He spoke about his cancer diagnosis, “a little bit of a roller coaster. You get good days and, you know, you’re up and down, up and down,” he told E! News.
“It’s always zero to 60 and 60 to zero but I feel good today,” he mentioned.
Keith played his first official headlining show in Las Vegas in December 2023, since he revealed his cancer diagnosis. It was the last time he performed publicly.
Toby Keith Achievements
During his career, Keith won multiple ACMs, and CMA Awards, and was nominated for seven Grammys. He played for U.S. presidents including George W Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. In 2021, President Trump awarded Keith with the National Media of the Arts.
Keith leaves behind his wife Tricia, 61, and three children, Shelley, Krystal, and Stelen. Rest easy cowboy.
What is your favorite Toby Keith song?
