Toby Keith, a renowned country music icon with record sales in the tens of millions, passed away at the age 61.
“Last night, Toby Keith peacefully passed away, surrounded by his family,” stated on his social media channels.
Achieving fame in the 1990s, Keith’s songs like Should’ve Been a Cowboy dominated the country music chart.
In June 2022, he revealed his battle with stomach cancer, describing it as a “debilitating” illness. The statement noted that he faced his fight with grace and dignity.
With a career spanning over 30 years, hits like Who’s Your Daddy and Made in America captivated millions. He is survived by his wife, Tricia Lucus, and three children.
Keith’s music often incorporated patriotic motifs, notably in the controversial track “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American),” unveiled shortly after the 9/11 attacks. The song faced scrutiny for its perceived chauvinistic lyrics.
Notably, the Dixie Chicks, fellow country artists, criticized the song, sparking a feud that persisted for several months. Eventually, Keith redirected attention, stating there were “far more important things” to focus on.
Throughout the years, Keith performed at events for various U.S. presidents, including George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. In 2021, President Trump honored Keith with the National Medal of the Arts.