Toby Keith had been diagnosed with stomach cancer
Country singer Toby Keith passed away on Monday at the age of 62, as announced by his family in a statement posted on his website and social media accounts early Tuesday.
“Toby Keith passed away peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family,” the statement read.
“He fought his battle with grace and courage,” it continued. “Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”
Keith disclosed in June 2022 that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer.
The Oklahoma-based country music star was renowned for his 1993 hit song, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy.” This breakout hit was aired 3 million times on radio stations and became the most-played country song of the 1990s.
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Among his 20 No. 1 Billboard hits were “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 2002 song, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American),” highlighted his patriotism in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
— Toby Keith (@tobykeith) February 6, 2024
However, Keith didn’t merely incorporate the concept of American patriotism into his songs. He actively showed his support for the American military by embarking on 11 USO tours to visit and perform for troops serving overseas. He expressed his backing for the men and women in America’s military with his 2003 hit, “American Soldier.”
He also contributed to raising millions for charity throughout his career, including constructing a home in Oklahoma City for children and their families who are fighting cancer.
Keith also performed 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.
Throughout his career, Keith received recognition for his vocals, songwriting, and live performances.
In 2001, Keith won the Male Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year awards at the Academy of Country Music Awards. He continued to garner accolades, winning Entertainer of the Year in 2003 and 2004. Additionally, he secured Top Male Vocalist and Album of the Year for “Shock ’n Y’all” in 2004.
He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015.
Keith released his final album, “Peso in My Pocket,” in 2021. The country singer performed his final show in Las Vegas in December.
Keith is survived by his wife, Tricia, three children, and four grandchildren.