Country music icon Toby Keith, known for hits like “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and “I Love This Bar,” has passed away at the age of 62 after battling stomach cancer. His family confirmed the news on Tuesday, Feb. 6, on the singer’s official website, stating that Keith passed away peacefully on Monday night surrounded by loved ones.
Tributes poured in from fellow musicians and public figures, highlighting Mr. Keith’s immense influence on the music industry and his home state of Oklahoma. Governor Kevin Stitt expressed condolences, noting Mr. Keith’s role in making Oklahoma a cultural beacon, writing, “His legacy will forever be in the hearts of Oklahomans and fans around the world—I know his spirit will live on. Sarah and I offer our condolences to Toby’s family.”
Similarly, Oklahoma Rep. Tom Cole praised Mr. Keith’s unwavering support for his community and the military. The representative offered prayers for the Keith family, posting to his social media, “Toby Keith was a homegrown music legend whose love of America and Oklahoma was ever-present. He never failed to show up for our community or military. He’ll be sorely missed, but his words will live on through every song played. Join me in lifting the Keith family in prayer.”
Senator Markwayne Mullin posted his tribute to Mr. Keith on social media, writing, “Oklahoma-native Toby Keith was a titan for country music. Born in Clinton, raised in Moore, and later playing semi-pro football for the Oklahoma City Drillers—Toby was Oklahoma Proud. He loved his family like he loved his country. May he rest in peace.
Musicians took to social media to remember the legendary artist. Jelly Roll credited Mr. Keith as an inspiration, posting on his Instagram story, “Toby inspired millions, and I was one of them.”
Randy Houser paid tribute on his Instagram page with a rendition of one of Mr. Keith’s hit songs, “I Love This Bar.” The Country Music Hall of Fame also honored Mr. Keith’s legacy, describing him as a resilient outsider who carved his own path in the industry.
“Toby Keith was big, brash, and never bowed down or slowed down for anyone,” said Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, in a statement. “His story is a distinctly American one—a former roughneck oil worker who carved out his own space in country music with a sinewy voice and an unbending will to succeed. He wrote his breakthrough songs and later formed his own record label when he felt underserved by Nashville. He relished being an outsider and doing things his way. Proudly patriotic, he didn’t mind if his clear-cut convictions ruffled your feathers. For three decades, he reflected the defiant strength of the country music audience. His memory will continue to stand tall.”
Carrie Underwood fondly remembered Mr. Keith as a “true blue cowboy,” and Morgan Wallen hailed him as a legend of country music and America. Jason Aldean expressed sadness at the news, emphasizing Mr. Keith’s significant presence in the music business.
References to Mr. Keith’s hit song “Red Solo Cup” were abundant in the tributes, with many artists raising their solo cups in his honor. Old Dominion praised Mr. Keith as a trailblazer with an authentic and heartfelt approach to music.
Joe Bonsall of The Oak Ridge Boys shared his sorrow at Mr. Keith’s passing, recalling his admiration for the talented musician. Zach Bryan, another Oklahoma native, reflected on his childhood memories of Mr. Keith’s music, underscoring the profound impact Mr. Keith had on his listeners.
In 2021, former President Donald Trump awarded Mr. Keith The National Medal of The Arts. Donald Trump Jr. took to X (formerly Twitter), posting a photo with the late musician who performed at President Trump’s inauguration in 2017: “Ugh. We lost a legend this week. R.I.P Toby Keith.”
In 2021, President Donald Trump awarded Mr. Keith the National Medal of Arts.
Toby Keith’s legacy as a pioneering figure in country music and a proud Oklahoman will undoubtedly endure, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and the hearts of fans worldwide.
