Toby Keith, one of the most popular and influential country singers of all time, died on Monday, February 6, 2024, at the age of 62.
He had been battling stomach cancer for 18 months before passing away quietly in the presence of his family. His official website and social media sites reported his passing, requesting privacy and respect. Here are some details regarding his life, work, and legacy.
Who was Toby Keith?
Toby Keith was born in Clinton, Oklahoma, in 1961 and raised in Moore, a suburb of Oklahoma City. He developed an interest in music at a young age and learned how to play the guitar from his grandma.
He worked as a rodeo hand, an oil field derrick man, and a semi-professional football player before embarking on a career in country music in the late 1980s. In 1992, he signed with Mercury Records and released his self-titled first album, which included his first breakthrough single, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy.”
Below is the official ABC News tweet about Toby Keith’s death.
Country singer Toby Keith, known for hits including “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” died on Monday. He was 62.
He “passed peacefully” on Monday night, his official X account said in a statement on Tuesday. https://t.co/9HJb4Tt34t pic.twitter.com/42v8ptuOvt
— ABC News (@ABC) February 6, 2024
The song became the most popular country single of the 1990s, launching Keith’s career to stardom. He went on to release 21 studio albums, four compilation albums, and two live albums, selling over 30 million copies worldwide.
He had 32 number-one successes and 42 top 10 hits on the Billboard country charts, and he received numerous prizes and distinctions, including four Academy of Country Music prizes, two Country Music Association Awards, and an American Music Award.
Keith was also noted for his patriotic and controversial compositions, like “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue (The Angry American),” “Beer for My Horses,” and “American Soldier,” which showed his political views and support for the United States military.
He has dabbled in acting, producing, and entrepreneurship, appearing in several films and television shows, starting his record label, Show Dog Nashville, and establishing a chain of restaurants and bars, I Love This Bar & Grill.
How did Toby Keith die?
In a video message released to his social media platforms, Toby Keith stated that he was diagnosed with stomach cancer in June 2022.
He stated that he was undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery and that he was encouraged and grateful for the support of his fans, family, and friends. He also stated that he planned to continue making music and performing for as long as he could.
He followed his pledge and released his 21st studio album, 100% Songwriter, in November 2023, with songs he created or co-authored. He also played three sold-out gigs in Las Vegas in December 2023, singing several of his classics and receiving a standing ovation from the audience.
He appeared emaciated but cheerful, and he thanked his supporters for their love and prayers. However, his condition deteriorated in early 2024, and he died on Monday, February 6, 2024, at home in Norman, Oklahoma.
— Toby Keith (@tobykeith) February 6, 2024
His official website and social media channels issued a brief statement announcing his death, reading, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Toby Keith.” Yesterday evening, he passed away peacefully in the company of his loved ones. He battled with grace and courage. Please respect his family’s privacy during this time.
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