DEVASTATING: Country Music Icon Toby Keith Passes Away at 62[LAST VIDEO ON TWITTER]

Renowned for his vibrant and occasionally divisive presence in country music, Toby Keith, a two-time Academy of Country Music’s Entertainer of the Year, has passed away. The Associated Press announced his death on February 6, 2024, confirming that Keith succumbed to stomach cancer at the age of 62. A statement on Keith’s official website revealed he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones, having been diagnosed with cancer in 2022.

Toby Keith, celebrated for his deep voice, patriotic anthems, and lively bar songs, made a significant mark on country music with his pro-American stance and memorable hits like “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” and “Red Solo Cup.” His career was marked by public disputes with celebrities and a refusal to conform to industry pressures, cementing his place as a formidable and sometimes contentious figure in the genre.

With a career that soared during the country music explosion of the 1990s, Keith’s music resonated with many, earning him 20 No. 1 hits on the Billboard country charts. His songs, ranging from love ballads to drinking anthems, showcased his versatility as an artist. Keith often spoke about his songwriting process as natural and unforced, drawing inspiration from life itself.

Before his music career took off, Keith worked in Oklahoma’s oil fields and played semi-pro football, eventually making his way to Nashville. His debut album in 1993 quickly went platinum, thanks to hits like “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” which became the most played country song of the 1990s. Despite initial success, Keith resisted attempts by record executives to steer him towards pop, seeking to maintain his unique style and voice.

His move to DreamWorks Records marked a turning point, with “How Do You Like Me Now?!” achieving crossover success. Keith’s contributions to country music were recognized with multiple awards, including male vocalist of the year and album of the year at the Academy of Country Music Awards. Toby Keith’s legacy as a songwriter who sang of life with authenticity and humor will be remembered by fans and the music industry alike.

Toby’s Last Video on Twitter

Toby’s been a songwriter since he was just a teenager. Hear about the first of over 5,000 songs in his catalog! pic.twitter.com/lsAj8UrLpF

— Toby Keith (@tobykeith) February 2, 2024