Country music fans are grieving the death of singer Toby Keith, who succumbed to stomach cancer at 62 on February 5. In a poignant Instagram post hours before his demise, the singer shared a heartfelt video from a concert, bidding farewell to his fans.
The clip, viewed over 8 million times, captured Keith from behind as he removed his guitar, signaling the conclusion of his performance.
The caption of the video read, ‘And that’s a wrap on the weekend, y’all. Back to it.’
Numerous followers commented on the post, conveying their sorrow and appreciation for Toby Keith's music.
One person wrote, ‘Thank you for Sharing Your Unbelievable Talent with All of Us. You will Never be Forgotten. You fought a Hard Battle with Dignity and Strength. Soar High My Brother Warrior 🕊 Our Heavenly Father is Awaiting you with His Loving Embrace. May you Rest in Eternal Peace. Sending Many Prayers to Your Loving Family and Friends.’
Another one wrote, ‘Rest in peace.’
Keith's family officially announced his passing on social media, requesting privacy as they navigate through this challenging period.
‘Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time,’ they wrote.
In 2021, Keith was diagnosed with stomach cancer, which he publicly disclosed in 2022. Subsequently, he opted to pause his music and touring endeavours, yet remained actively involved in advocating for his children's cancer charity, the Toby Keith Foundation.
Keith enjoyed a thriving career spanning three decades, selling over 40 million albums and delivering numerous chart-topping hits including ‘Should've Been a Cowboy,’ ‘How Do You Like Me Now?!’, ‘Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American),’ and ‘I Love This Bar.’
Toby Keith garnered numerous accolades for his music, notably receiving the National Medal of Arts from President Donald Trump in 2021. Additionally, he was honored at the People's Choice Country Awards in September 2023.
In December 2023, Keith staged a remarkable comeback with a string of sold-out performances in Las Vegas, which he hailed as ‘triumphant.’
Keith leaves behind his wife, Tricia Lucus, along with his three children—daughters Shelley Covel Rowland and Krystal Keith, and son Stelen Keith—and four grandchildren.
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