Toby Keith, country singer-songwriter, dies at 62 | News, exclude numbers and the word.
Toby Keith, Country Singer and Patriotic Songwriter, Passes Away at 62
Toby Keith, the beloved country singer known for his pro-American anthems and chart-topping hits, has tragically passed away at the age of 62. Keith, best known for his songs “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” lost his battle with stomach cancer on Monday, surrounded by his loving family.
Keith’s official website released a statement announcing his passing, describing him as a fighter who faced his illness with grace and courage. The statement also revealed that Keith had been battling stomach cancer, a diagnosis he made public in 2022.
Standing tall at 6-foot-4, Toby Keith made a significant impact on the country music scene during the boom years of the 1990s. His songs resonated with fans across the nation, and his patriotic anthem “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” became an iconic post-9/11 tribute. Keith’s powerful voice, combined with his tongue-in-cheek sense of humor, allowed him to seamlessly transition between love songs and barroom tunes like “I Love This Bar” and “Red Solo Cup.”
Throughout his illustrious career, Toby Keith accumulated an impressive discography of hits, including “How Do You Like Me Now?!,” “As Good As I Once Was,” “My List,” and “Beer for My Horses” (a duet with Willie Nelson). His music drew inspiration from his working-class roots, and he counted Merle Haggard among his influences. Keith’s success on the Billboard charts was unmatched, with over 20 No. 1 hits and more than 60 singles on the Hot Country chart.
Even during his cancer treatments, Toby Keith remained dedicated to his craft, continuing to perform for his devoted fans. In fact, he took the stage in Las Vegas just last December. Additionally, Keith showcased his talent at the 2023 People’s Choice Country Awards, where he performed his poignant song “Don’t Let the Old Man In.”
In a recent interview, Keith candidly spoke about his battle with cancer, likening it to a roller coaster ride filled with uncertainty. Despite the challenges, he maintained a positive outlook, acknowledging that the disease might never fully go away.
Before his rise to fame in the music industry, Toby Keith worked as a roughneck in the oil fields of Oklahoma. He then pursued a career in semi-professional football before ultimately finding his calling as a singer. Keith’s down-to-earth approach to life and his ability to connect with audiences through his music earned him a dedicated following.
In 1993, Toby Keith signed with Mercury Records, and his debut album, self-titled “Toby Keith,” achieved platinum status. The breakthrough hit from this album, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” dominated the airwaves and solidified Keith’s place in country music history.
However, Keith’s time at Mercury Records was not without its challenges. The label’s focus on global superstar Shania Twain often overshadowed the rest of the roster. Keith felt pressured to conform to a more pop-oriented sound, which clashed with his authentic country style. In 1999, he made the decision to move to DreamWorks Records, where he found greater artistic freedom.
One of Toby Keith’s most significant accomplishments came with his multiweek hit, “How Do You Like Me Now?!,” which crossed over to the Top 40 charts. The song’s success earned him the male vocalist of the year and album of the year awards at the Academy of Country Music Awards in 2001, a moment he had been patiently waiting for throughout his career.
Known for his outspoken political views, Toby Keith proudly wore his patriotism on his sleeve. In the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, he released “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American),” a song that stirred controversy with its bold lyrics. Keith’s unwavering support for the United States led him to perform at events for Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump, with the latter presenting him with a National Medal of the Arts in 2021.
In addition to his political stance, Toby Keith found himself embroiled in a public feud with The Chicks (formerly known as the Dixie Chicks). The dispute arose when lead singer Natalie Maines expressed her disapproval of then-President George W. Bush, prompting Keith to defend his country and criticize Maines’ comments.
Toby Keith’s music and his willingness to express his opinions made him a beloved figure in the country music community. His legacy as a talented singer-songwriter, fierce patriot, and larger-than-life personality will forever be remembered and cherished by his millions of fans.
As the world mourns the loss of Toby Keith, his music will continue to resonate, reminding us of the power of a good song and the indomitable spirit of a true country music icon..
1. Toby Keith, renowned country singer-songwriter, passes away at 62
2. Sad demise of Toby Keith, celebrated country singer-songwriter, aged 62.
