Country Music singer Toby Keith dead at 62

Rickey Stokes

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Posted by: RStokes
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Date: Feb 06 2024 7:54 AM

Country singer Toby Keith died Monday at the age of 62, his family wrote in a statement posted to 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 fight with grace and courage," it continued. "Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.

"Keith revealed in June 2022 that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer.

The Oklahoma-based country music star was best known for his 1993 hit song, "Should’ve Been a Cowboy." His breakout hit was played 3 million times on radio stations and became the most played country song of the 1990s.

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)," showcased his patriotism following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Keith, however, didn’t just use the idea of American patriotism in his songs. He gave his support to the American military, going on 11 USO tours to visit and play for troops serving overseas. He’d write about his support for the men and women in America’s military with his 2003 hit, "American Soldier."

He also helped to raise millions for charity over his career, including building a home in Oklahoma City for kids and their families who are battling cancer.

Keith also played at events for Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Donald Trump, the latter giving him a National Medal of the Arts in 2021.

Throughout his career, Keith was recognized for his vocals, songwriting and live performances.

In 2001, Keith won the male vocalist of the year and album of the year at the Academy of Country Music Awards. He would go on to win entertainer of the year in 2003 and 2004, also winning top male vocalist and album of the year for "Shock ’n Y’all" the latter year.

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.