The country music world is mourning the loss of Toby Keith, the iconic “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” singer-songwriter, who passed away on Monday at the age of 62 after a battle with stomach cancer. Keith’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow country stars and fans alike, all of whom remember him as a true patriot, a man of faith, and a beloved figure in the music industry.
Ricky Skaggs expressed his sorrow, saying, “I was saddened to hear of Toby Keith’s passing. He really was one of the good guys. He helped a lot of people get started in the business. 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!”
The Oak Ridge Boys also shared their grief, stating, “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. RIP Toby Keith.”
Dolly Parton took to social media to express her condolences, writing, “It’s always hard when we lose our brothers and sisters in country music. Toby Keith was one of the greats in every way. He will be missed but his music and legacy lives on.”
Lee Greenwood highlighted Keith’s patriotism and dedication to the military, saying, “Toby Keith did things his way — amazing artist, songwriter, patriot, and man of faith. I admired him and how he rolled. He and I shared a deep love for our military, and I’m proud that he took his music to dangerous places in order to give the American spirit to those protecting freedom.”
Carrie Underwood added a heartfelt tribute, “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! We’re gonna miss you, Toby, but my heart has no doubt that you are standing in the presence of our King right now!!! See you again someday, friend.”
Crystal Gayle shared her admiration for Keith, stating, “It’s heartbreaking to lose Toby Keith. I’ve always been a big fan of Toby and his music, and I’ll always treasure singing with him. Toby was a great American.”
Jason Aldean also expressed his sadness, “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.”
Kristin Chenoweth, a fellow Oklahoman, shared her thoughts on Instagram, “I loved him as a musician. A great Oklahoman. A great American. What a loss!”
Randy Houser added, “God Bless you and Family. Hard to imagine an America without Toby Keith in it.”
Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, reflected on Keith’s legacy, “Toby Keith was big, brash, and never bowed down or slowed down for anyone. 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.”
Austin Burke also paid tribute, “Absolutely heartbreaking. Not only a country music legend, but also an American hero. He will be remembered for what he did for our great military more than anything and I know that’s how he would want it. God bless Toby and his family.”
Cole Swindell shared a poignant reminder, “RIP Toby Keith — Tell folks you love them while you can. Life is short..the older I get, the more I realize how true it is.”
Old Dominion honored Keith’s trailblazing spirit, “Toby Keith was a true trailblazer. Authentic and heartfelt but always with a wink ’til the end. He was larger than life in so many ways and his music will live on forever! Raising our red solos tonight — you will be missed by so many. Peace.”
John Rich of Big & Rich expressed his grief, “Waking up to the terrible news that our friend, and legend @tobykeith has passed away from cancer. He was a true patriot, a first class singer/songwriter, and a bigger than life kind of guy. He will be greatly missed.”
Janie Fricke added, “Toby has been a great talent and image in the music business and will be respected and remembered forever.”
T. Graham Brown reflected on Keith’s American success story, “Toby was a true American success story and never forgot what America stands for. He was an icon. God bless his family at this sorrowful time. R.I.P.”
Johnny Lee shared his admiration for Keith’s patriotism, “I have always enjoyed Toby Keith’s music throughout the years. He’s always been a patriot with his continued support for our military. This one hits hard for sure!”
Stephen Colbert also took a moment on The Late Show to pay tribute to Keith, recalling their friendship and the lessons he learned from the country star. “I was shocked and saddened when I saw the news this morning,” Colbert said. “I knew Toby was ill, he’d been fighting stomach cancer for some time, but I still had hope that we would see each other again and that we would hear him on this stage. I was lucky enough to become friends with Toby over the years, as improbable as that seems.”
Colbert remembered meeting Keith on The Colbert Report and how their conversation led to a lasting friendship. “That day Toby taught me not to pre-judge a guest,” Colbert said. “And to have my intention, but keep my eyes open to the reality of who they are. And for that lesson, and for a lot of other things, I’m always going to be grateful.”
Keith’s family confirmed his death on social media, writing that the musician “passed peacefully” and was “surrounded by his family.” They added, “He fought his fight with grace and courage.”
In honor of Keith, many fans and bars across the country raised their red Solo cups, a nod to his 2011 hit “Red Solo Cup.” The song, which Keith once described as “the stupidest song I ever heard in my life, but it’s so stupid it’s good,” became an anthem for good times and celebrations.
CMT will release a one-hour special dedicated to Keith, premiering on April 11. Additionally, Lainey Wilson, Sammy Hagar, Brooks & Dunn, Lukas Nelson, and Roger Clemens will honor Keith at the 2024 CMT Music Awards. The show, hosted by Kelsea Ballerini, will take place on Sunday at the Moody Center in Austin and air live on CBS.
Keith’s legacy in country music is undeniable. He received 30 CMT nominations during his career, winning seven. He co-hosted the show in 2003 and 2012. As the country music community continues to mourn, Keith’s music and spirit will undoubtedly live on.
Source: Various sources
