By Mark Gray
5:00pm PDT, Mar 15, 2024
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Toby Keith, a titan in country music, passed away from stomach cancer on Feb. 5. He was 62. His death was peaceful, the iconic singer's family announced. "He fought his fight with grace and courage," a family message read.
Toby was one of the biggest names in country music for decades, as he saw 20 of his songs hit No. 1 on the Billboard chart. He generated $40 million in worldwide music sales.
In the summer 2022, Keith announced he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer the previous fall and was receiving chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.
Following his death, many in the entertainment world publicly honored the "Should Have Been A Cowboy" singer.
Keep reading to see how they said goodbye…
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"We're going to miss him so much, not only as a friend but a fellow performer and person in the music business and from Oklahoma. But he doesn't have to fight anymore, and he doesn't have to hurt anymore. I hope one day to get to see him up in Heaven. Thank God we have his wonderful music to keep us company, even though he's not here on earth with us." —Reba McEntire via People magazine
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"It's always hard when we lose our brothers and sisters in country music. Toby Keith was one of the greats in every way. He will be missed but his music and legacy will live on." —Dolly Parton
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"An iconic artist and a great man. Your songs turn every room into a good time" —Luke Bryan
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"I was shocked and saddened when I saw the news this morning. I knew Toby was ill, he'd been fighting stomach cancer for some time, but I still had hope that we would see each other again and that we would hear him on this stage. I was lucky enough to become friends with Toby over the years, as improbable as that seems… Toby taught me not to pre-judge a guest. And to have my intention, but keep my eyes open to the reality of who they are. And for that lesson, and for a lot of other things, I'm always going to be grateful…. I'm sure Toby and I disagreed about many things as so many Americans do these days. More and more of us are angrier and angrier with each other. But tonight I will issue this invitation to anybody. I do not care who you are. I will meet you at this place. I will meet you at being broken-hearted that Toby Keith is gone. Thank you, big dog." —Stephen Colbert
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"Just waking up to the news of Toby Keith's passing. Today is a sad day for Country music and its fans. Toby was a huge presence in our business and someone we all looked up to and respected. You and your music will be forever remembered big man." —Jason Aldean
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"Our self titled debuts came out on the same day, April 20, 1993… @tobykeith and I spent quite a bit of time together early in our careers…..We had a lot of good times and conversations about what we wanted out of our careers and our lives. He was a maverick. He did things his way, on his terms, a true artist. I always have and always will have tremendous respect for his artistry, dedication and fearlessness to do his thing. We all will miss you, brother." –Tim McGraw
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"Remembering fondly working with #TobyKeith . Prayers for his family that they are comforted in their great loss . rest in peace Toby with love #touchedbyanangel" —Roma Downey
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"Toby didn't just talk the talk… he walked the walk. Rest Easy Big Dawg" —Jake Owen
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"Even though I knew about your battle these last few months I still never imagined this day. Anyone who knew you knows what I mean. You were the toughest man I ever met. Thank you brother for being a friend, a hero and an inspiration. There will never be another Toby Keith." —Blake Shelton
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"Saddle up the horses, Jesus, 'cause a true blue COWBOY just made his ride up to heaven!!! Introduce him to all the Okies and sign that boy up for the choir! We're gonna miss you, Toby, but my heart has no doubt that you are standing in the presence of our King right now!!! See you again someday, friend." —Carrie Underwood
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"Toby Keith was one of the greatest guys I knew and his heart was bigger than the universe. This is one of the last things he did to help all our kids at Childrens Miracle Network Hospitals! Rest in peace, Toby. You will be greatly missed…" –Marie Osmond wrote alongside an image of Toby wearing a sticker for "all kids"
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"It breaks my heart to hear about the passing of Toby Keith… I've known Toby since I was a kid. He used to run around in the same circle as my dad. When I signed my first record deal in 2012, Toby was the very first person to take me on tour… I watched his show every single night just trying to soak up as much as I could. I learned so much about how to write songs, how to perform, and how to entertain from Toby Keith. I am so honored to say that I got to share the stage with him. Toby – I hope your soul rests easy brother." —Thomas Rhett
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"Extremely Saddened by the passing of Toby Keith, Rest in peace my friend… @tobykeith" —Clint Eastwood
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"I knew Toby from back in our Oklahoma nightclub days. He was the leader of the 'Easy Money' band, and I remember looking up to him as a band leader even back then. I think the thing I admired most about him is that he did things his own way and made no apologies for it! I'm told that he came out to the last show we performed in Grove, Oklahoma, but had to leave before we came off stage. I didn't get a chance to say goodbye or tell him how much I've looked up to him over the years. I hope he knew. Rest in peace, my Oklahoma brother!" —Heath Wright of Ricochet
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"Waking up to losing Toby wakes up a lot of memories and realities — I remember the first time we actually met and talked — he was wearing a blue leather suit — we all wore horrible clothes back then — we got along from the beginning — he called 'a spade a spade' plain and simple — always — We asked him to come on tour with us somewhere in the late '90s, along with Keith Urban, and I'll never forget after our first show together, he said 'We've got to find a place to play.' After that we would go find a house band after every show and burn 'til the flame was gone — He was a relentless participant in every aspect of his life — performing, writing, golf, hanging with his friends, along with his dedication to the military and the red white and blue. But he always put his loyalty and love of God and family first. He was one of those guys I just assumed would always be there — HOF cowboy heart — RIP big man." —Kix Brooks
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"A troubadour gone too soon. We played together, we sang together. He was a friend, ornery, rough, tough, kind and loyal … if he liked you. A rascal, an outlaw with a big heart. He was opinionated, usually his way of the highway. A patriot that acted, didn't just talk it. He was a loyal husband and proud loving father. He was a big man, a fighter … in the end life wins. Give 'em hell up there, my friend" —Ronnie Dunn
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"Toby was a man's man. Honest, hardworking, a fearless truth teller in life and song. I will miss him." —Clay Walker
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"RIP to one of the greatest country music songwriters of all time. You'll be missed, @tobykeith." —Dan + Shay
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"Very sorry to hear Toby lost his battle. I know he and his family fought hard and you'll all be in our thoughts & prayers, for strength and peace of mind." —Clint Black
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"Toby Keith was a tried and true, red, white, and blue, AMERICAN BAD***! RIP TK, sure gonna miss ya Big Dog. Thanks for the music and all the great memories." —Kid Rock
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"Stood me still with emotion and memories to see and hear of the loss of my friend…the legend…Toby Keith. Heart breaking with thoughts and prayers for his fans and family this morning. We toured together several times around the globe. He was always the kindest…sweetest gentle giant of an outlaw one could ever hope to entertain and make music with. Raising a Red Cup this morning and saying a prayer. Heavens a honkytonk tonight." —Billy Ray Cyrus
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"It's heartbreaking to lose Toby Keith. I've always been a big fan of Toby and his music, and I'll always treasure singing with him. Toby was a great American." —Crystal Gayle
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"Well..ugh..Everyone that knew Toby Kieth lost a good friend Today and an unabashed 100% American Patriot. Toby was one of a kind and he'll be missed tons. Thanks for all the music, bus talks and friendship you okie Redneck. We had a mutual friend in Jesus so I'll see ya again one day. Im sure my Nebraska folks will forgive me for this just one time, …Boomer Sooner Toby! Boomer Sooner." —Larry The Cable Guy
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"I still just don't want to believe it … we had a lot of fun together on tour .. and when Toby would come to T-Roy's dad's bar the grapevine .. brother u we're a very special person and hell of a musician!!! Love u daddy rest in peace!!!" —Eddie Montgomery
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"thinkin about @tobykeith family & fans today. We lost a legend" —Lainey Wilson
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"We lost a giant in @TobyKeith. My condolences are with his family and those closest to him during this difficult time. Toby was a man among men, an American patriot who LOVED the troops, and a music legend. I am forever grateful for his impact on my life as a fan and friend." —Rodney Atkins
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"I was saddened to hear of Toby Keith's passing. He loved God, he loved his family, and he was a true Patriot, he loved America. A friend to so many, including myself! Rest dear brother, you're home at last!" – Ricky Skaggs
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"Damn, RIP Toby. Can't believe it." —Luke Combs
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"We covered 'Should've Been a Cowboy' at every show last year —Toby inspired millions and I was one of them RIP" —Jelly Roll
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"I found myself awake at 1:48am when I learned of Toby Keith's passing. Gone too soon. I had the privilege of working with Toby Keith when recording our Stars and Stripes album. Toby's big booming voice brought Be True to Your School to life in ways I'd never imagined. Toby was great to work with, a deep and kind spirit really devoted to music. He had a way of communicating the full range of human emotion so poetically through song. Thank you Toby for the gift of your music and musicianship.
I'd like to extend my heartfelt condolences to Toby's family. I think I'll stay up a little longer and listen to Toby's "Red Solo Cup" and "How do you like me now." RIP Toby" —Mike Love
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"Toby, You're One Of The All Time Greats. I Appreciated Our Relationship & Friendship. Thank You For Always Treating Me Like I Was Special. Rest In Peace My Brother!" —Ric Flair
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"Denise and I are saddened to hear about our friend @TobyKeith. Our prayers are with Tricia and the entire Keith family." —Alan Jackson
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"Very low this morning. @tobykeith is treasured in this family and will certainly be missed. I know he was a believer and is with the Almighty. Much love to his family. You're in our prayers." —Lee Ann Womack
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"My friend Toby Keith was a legend not just in the country music format but all music.
He was also a great patriot whose love for God, Family and Country was displayed in his music and more importantly in the life he lived. He will live on in the hearts of those lives he impacted and changed. His presence will forever be missed. Praying for God's peace for all who loved him." —Craig Morgan
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"too many rides in my old man's car listening to Toby Keith. really hard thing to hear. rest in peace friend we love you" —Zach Bryan
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"Ugh. We lost a legend this week. R.I.P Toby Keith." —Donald Trump Jr.
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"Wow this announcement has totally taken my breath away. I've been praying for Toby and it is truly wonderful to know he is finally home praise Jesus" —Stephen Baldwin
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"Lost a dear friend today. My good pal @tobykeith I'm without words right now. He was a sweet dear man and an unbelievable patriot.! God bless" –Carrot Top
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"thank you @tobykeith, you inspired me and the next generation of cowboys we'll ride on with you and make sure our flag flies high" —Dustin Lynch
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"My heart is bleeding for @tobykeith & his family. He was so kind, patriotic, loved his country and Loved his fans! My thoughts & everything I can muster goes to his wife & family in hopes that he gives them the strength!
Sleep well my friend! It won't be the same without you" —Tanya Tucker
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"Cancer truly touches us all. Rest in peace, Toby Keith." —Jill Biden
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"Waking up to the terrible news that our friend, and legend @tobykeith has passed away from cancer. He was a true Patriot, a first class singer/songwriter, and a bigger than life kind of guy. He will be greatly missed." —John Rich
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"RIP Toby Keith- Tell folks you love them while you can. Life is short..the older I get, the more I realize how true it is." —Cole Swindell
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"so sad to hear about Toby Keith dying. wow. He was just with us in studio and seemed super positive. Ive had the honor of opening for him on his tour. playing with him at festivals. and having him, in studio many times." —Bobby Bones
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"I'm broken hearted by the news of my friend Toby Keith's passing. We shared many stages together & a deep love of the music business & the people in it. He was an amazing singer, songwriter, & performer. You will truly be missed my friend. I'll see you on the other side." —Tracy Lawrence
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"Rest In Peace and Love Toby Keith." —Kristy Swanson
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"My heart is heavy today upon hearing that my friend Toby Keith has left us. I'm so sad. A true man's man. Boomer Sooner Big T." —Jim Ross
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"can't find the words at this time. RIP, Toby" —Sammy Hagar
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"I loved him as a musician. A great Oklahoman. A great American. What a loss" —Kristin Chenoweth
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"Toby Keith was a true trail blazer. Authentic and heartfelt but always with a wink 'til the end. He was larger than life in so many ways and his music will live on forever! Raising our red solos tonight—you will be missed by so many. Peace." —Old Dominion
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"courtesy of the red white & blue" has always been a go-to karaoke song of mine. thank you for the music TK! country music legend. rest in peace" — Megan Moroney
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"America lost a legend today. Toby Keith helped make Oklahoma the coolest place in the nation.
His legacy will forever be in the hearts of Oklahomans and fans around the world— I know his spirit will live on.
Sarah and I offer our condolences to Toby's family." —Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt
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"Young me learning from the legend. RIP Toby, we all shoulda been Cowboys." —Chase Rice
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"We woke up to some sad news this morning. Country music lost Toby Keith, and I wanted to do something special for Toby tonight. It's one of his songs, my favorite Toby Keith song. So this goes out to Toby. R.I.P." —Darius Rucker prior to performing "God Love Her" at the Grand Ole Opry
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"RIP Toby Keith @CountryMusic @tobykeith Legend for sure!" —Michael Vick
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"Toby Keith has gone home … This is very sad news … We loved and respected him on every level and whispered many a prayer for him as he fought this illness. God must have needed a big hearted Oklahoma singing boy for the great choir. Well, he got one #RIPTobyKeith" —The Oak Ridge Boys
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"Toby Keith did things his way – amazing artist, songwriter, patriot and man of faith. I admired him and how he rolled. He and I shared a deep love for our military and I'm proud that he took his music to dangerous places in order to give American spirit to those protecting freedom. I was pleased that he called me the OG and was honored to work with him a few times through the years. Please join our family in praying for the Covel family. I am confident that Toby was met at the pearly gates by patriots who have gone before and is resting in the arms of Jesus." —Lee Greenwood
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"Rest easy Toby Keith" —Pat McAfee
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"Woke up to news that Toby Keith had passed…. He was a class act, a friend and one of the most talented guys you'll ever meet… We'll miss you down here man… Rest in peace" —Brantley Gilbert
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"My deepest condolences to the entire family. What a legend he was" —Lance Armstrong
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"Life is short. So sad to hear of the passing of our friend @tobykeith. He was a superstar performer, legendary songwriter and great American. Prayers and condolences to all his family. He will be missed by many." —Big Kenny Alphin
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"Toby Keith was a force to be reckoned with. 32 #1 hits, 30 years in the music business, a proficient songwriter, an unforgettable voice, and a staunch supporter of the US military. Not many people know what it takes to have a 30 year career, but you have to be incredibly tough" —Josh Turner
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"Toby Keith was pro-America without apology. He wrote songs about the values our nation was founded upon – faith, family, hard work, patriotism. He refused to bow to toxic cancellation or anti-Americanism. Our country is better because of men like Toby Keith. Rest in peace." —Vivek Ramaswamy
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We lost an absolute legend. @tobykeith paved waves for so many in country music and never wavered from his beliefs or values. Something we all should admire/respect. Also such a killer performer and songwriter. Rip TK, you're one in a million brotha." —Gary Levox
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"Heard the news that @tobykeith passed. He was a legend. When we performed together, I always hung back & let Toby run the show… You will be missed & you were one hell of an entertainer" —Taylor Hicks
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"Toby Keith you were a mountain of a man and an icon in country music with a voice that will live on forever. Rest in peace." —Jeanine Pirro
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"RIP to a country music legend @tobykeith You were a true inspiration. You'll be missed not only in the country music community but all around the world. We'll be down here 'singin those campfire songs'" —Chris Lane
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"It's hard to find the proper words to describe such an incredible & iconic person. Did so much for so many! Big life, big heart, great family man, loyal & true friend! Prayers & love to Tricia & family. Love ya brother, RIP Big T. @tobykeith #OUDNA" —Former Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops
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"I don't believe in coincidences… only convergences. I woke up at 4am to a message on my phone of Toby's passing. I just finished my media day in Huntsville, Alabama — for an event in the same arena where I busted his song and he suplexed me on TNA's 1st ppv. The reason I tell this story is to explain what a friend Toby was to me — after he had already committed to my show, he was asked by the President of the USA to come to the White House to perform his new smash hit, 'Angry American,' on the day of the event, June 19, 2002. Toby said a 'diplomatically no' to them. Toby was a man of his word, honor and integrity to his core, and I'll never have a friend like him again. T, love you my friend, Rest in Peace…" –wrestler Jeff Jarrett
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"Spent most of the day driving today. Wasn't on the phone much and just sat there listening to @tobykeith. What an awesome person, talent, and proud American courtesy of the red, white and blue he was." —NASCAR drive Clint Boyer
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"I admire the way Toby battled this awful illness. He released new music, and he was on stage at the end. There is nothing coming along to replace people like him." –Don McLean
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"Toby was the embodiment of GOD, Family, & Country… and had a way of making you stand up a little taller when singing about (or honoring) our service men and women. We are better country music artists because of the life and legacy of Toby Keith. Rest well, brother, may your music and legacy live on forever!" —Chapel Hart
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"It's always sad when hearing that one of our great talents has left for home. He was truly one of the most talented singer-songwriters ever to grace a stage. Hearing his voice and music through the years always brought a smile to my face. Kelly and I have often prayed for him since hearing of his diagnosis. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and legions of fans all over the world. R.I.P. Toby." —T.G. Sheppard
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"What a loss to our music. A great talent with a big heart. Everybody loved Toby. RIP." —Moe Bandy
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"Toby has been a great talent and image in the music business and will be respected and remembered forever." —Janie Fricke
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"Toby was a true American success story and never forgot what America stands for. He was an icon. God bless his family at this sorrowful time. R.I.P." —T. Graham Brown
