Remembering Toby Keith: A Tribute at the 2024 CMT Music Awards

The country music community was struck with grief when Toby Keith passed away from cancer on February 5th at the age of 62. With an impressive track record of 20 No. 1 hits on both the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and the Country Airplay chart, Keith was a steadfast figure in the genre for over three decades, known for his unyielding approach and occasional controversy.

At the 2024 CMT Music Awards held at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas, on April 7th, it was evident that the planned tribute to Keith would be a poignant moment of the evening. Led by Keith’s longtime friends Brooks & Dunn and Sammy Hagar, alongside Lainey Wilson, who Keith had mentored, the tribute received support from Keith’s dedicated backing band.

Baseball icon Roger Clemens, describing Keith as “a true friend and patriot,” introduced the tribute, acknowledging Keith’s resilience and humor throughout his battle with cancer.

Brooks & Dunn kicked off the tribute with a spirited rendition of Keith’s breakthrough hit “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” captivating the crowd, including Jelly Roll, who joined in singing along.

Sammy Hagar then heightened the energy with a lively performance of Keith’s 2003 hit “I Love This Bar,” a nod to the country singer’s inspired franchise restaurant. Hagar humorously reminisced about both of them managing to get kicked out of their own bar over the years.

Following an introduction by Lukas Nelson and Riley Green, Lainey Wilson closed the tribute with a heartfelt rendition of “How Do You Like Me Now?!”, showcasing her emotional connection to the song as Keith’s widow, Tricia Lucas, and his children looked on.

As the performance concluded, an emotional Clemens took the stage, leading the entire audience in a toast to the legend with red solo cups raised high, echoing Keith’s iconic line: “Whiskey for my men and beer for my horses!”