Toby Keith, one of the most successful and influential country music singers of all time, has passed away after a long battle with stomach cancer. He was 60 years old.
A Life of Music and Patriotism
Toby Keith Covel was born on July 8, 1961, in Clinton, Oklahoma. He grew up listening to country music legends like Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash. He started playing guitar at the age of eight and formed his first band at the age of 20.
He worked as an oilfield worker and a football player before pursuing a career in music. He moved to Nashville in 1990 and signed a record deal with Mercury Records. His debut album, Toby Keith, was released in 1993 and spawned four hit singles, including “Should’ve Been a Cowboy”, which became his signature song.
He went on to release 20 studio albums, six compilation albums and two Christmas albums. He sold over 40 million records worldwide and charted 61 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, including 20 number one hits and 21 additional top 10 hits.
Some of his most popular songs include “I Love This Bar”, “Beer for My Horses”, “As Good as I Once Was”, “Red Solo Cup” and “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)”. He won four Academy of Country Music Awards, two Country Music Association Awards and two American Music Awards. He was also inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015.
Toby Keith was also known for his patriotism and support for the U.S. military. He performed for the troops in several countries, including Iraq and Afghanistan. He also founded the Toby Keith Foundation, which supports children with cancer and their families.
A Battle with Cancer
Toby Keith was diagnosed with stomach cancer in early 2022, according to Nene Star News². He underwent surgery and chemotherapy, but his condition worsened over time. He passed away on June 15, 2023, surrounded by his family and friends.
His death was announced by his official Facebook page, which posted a message that read:
> It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Toby Keith. He fought bravely against cancer until the end. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend and mentor. He will be missed by millions of fans around the world who loved his music and his spirit. Please keep his family in your prayers during this difficult time.
The news of his death shocked and saddened the country music community and his fans. Many celebrities and fellow artists paid tribute to him on social media, expressing their condolences and admiration for his legacy.
A Legacy That Lives On
Toby Keith leaves behind a rich and diverse musical legacy that will continue to inspire generations of country music fans and artists. He was a trailblazer who pushed the boundaries of the genre with his bold lyrics, catchy melodies and charismatic personality.
He was also a humanitarian who used his fame and fortune to help others in need. He was a proud American who loved his country and honored its heroes.
He is survived by his wife Tricia Covel, whom he married in 1984; his four children Shelley Covel Rowland, Krystal Keith Covel Sandubrae, Stelen Keith Covel and Truitt Keith Covel; and several grandchildren.
Toby Keith passed away, but his music lives on.