Country Music Icon Toby Keith Passes Away at 62: Remembering a Legend

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Country music icon Toby Keith, celebrated for chart-toppers like “Red Solo Cup” and “Should Have Been a Cowboy,” has passed away at the age of 62.

The singer-songwriter peacefully departed on Monday night, as confirmed by his family in a statement shared on social media. Keith had been battling stomach cancer since being diagnosed in the fall of 2021.

“Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5, surrounded by his family,” the statement conveyed. “He faced his battle with grace and courage.”

“During this time, we ask for privacy for his family,” the message concluded.

Born Toby Keith Covel on July 8, 1961, in Oklahoma, Keith’s roots ran deep in the heart of country music. Before pursuing music full-time, he worked as a rodeo hand and in the oil fields while moonlighting as a performer in bars. It was during this period with the band Easy Money that he met his wife of nearly four decades, Tricia Lucus. They married in 1984 and welcomed three children into their lives.

Keith’s solo career soared in the early ’90s with his breakout hit, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” which topped the charts and propelled his debut album to platinum status. His success continued with hits like “How Do You Like Me Now?!” and “You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This,” solidifying his status as a country music powerhouse.

Despite controversies, including public disputes with fellow artists, Keith’s influence extended beyond music. He ventured into entrepreneurship with the launch of the popular restaurant chain, I Love This Bar & Grill.

Throughout his career, Keith remained a steadfast supporter of the country and its leaders, performing for multiple U.S. presidents and receiving the National Medal of the Arts in 2021.

Despite his cancer diagnosis, Keith remained resilient, returning to the stage in December 2023 for his first headlining shows since revealing his health struggles.

Toby Keith leaves behind a legacy of music and memories, survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.