Iconic Country Singer-Songwriter Toby Keith Passes Away at 62 Following Stomach Cancer Battle
Toby Keith, Country Music Icon Passes Away at the Age of 62 |
Toby Keith Death
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Toby Keith, the esteemed country music superstar known for crafting some of Nashville's most significant hits. Keith, aged 62, succumbed on Monday, as confirmed by his publicist to NPR, and the news reverberated through his official website and on X, formerly Twitter.
A poignant statement on Keith's website reads, "Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5, surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time."
In heartfelt remembrance, Keith, acclaimed for his vocals and songwriting, played at events for Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. In 2021, Trump honored him with a National Medal of the Arts. His enduring legacy lives on through his unforgettable live performances.
Toby Keith cause of death
The country artist had shared his battle with stomach cancer in 2022, revealing his ongoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments since the fall of 2021. "So far, so good," he had optimistically expressed, seeking time for recovery and relaxation.Over a remarkable three-decade career, Keith blessed the airwaves with hits like "Red Solo Cup," "How Do You Like Me Now?!" and the poignant duet "Beer For My Horses" with Willie Nelson.
When did Toby Keith come out?
Born in Oklahoma, Keith initially worked in the oil fields post-high school, but music eventually claimed his focus. His breakthrough came in 1993 with "Should've Been a Cowboy," the most played country song of that decade.
His patriotic anthem "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)" stirred both admiration and controversy, elevating Keith's visibility. He received numerous accolades, including the Academy of Country Music's Male Vocalist of the Year in 2001, Artist of the Decade at the American Country Awards in 2011, and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015. In 2021, he was honored with the National Medal of Arts.
Tributes from fellow country stars poured in, with Carrie Underwood expressing, "Saddle up the horses, Jesus, 'cause a true blue COWBOY just made his ride up to heaven!!! Introduce him to all the Okies and sign that boy up for the choir!"
Jason Aldean reflected, "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."
Zach Bryan shared the sentiment, saying, "Too many rides in my old man's car listening to Toby Keith. Really hard thing to hear. Rest in peace friend; we love you."