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Country music legend Toby Keith passed away Monday night at the age of 62. The Oklahoma native battled cancer, ultimately succumbing to the disease.
He passed “peacefully” surrounded by loved ones, according to a post on his social media page. Friends and colleagues have been quick to send condolences following the loss.
Keith was a legend in the country music scene, rattling off hit after hit starting with “Should’ve Been A Cowboy,” which is reportedly the most-played country song of the 1990s having been aired on radio stations 3 million times!
He notched 20 No. 1s on the Billboard Country airplay chart, enamoring listeners with both his extreme sense of patriotism and bar room, cowboy persona.
After news of his passing broke online, social media was flooded with reaction. Friend John Daly was saddened by the news, taking a moment to honor his partner in crime on X.
“My heart is truly broken,” the PGA star wrote. “One of my best friends gone by this disease! RIP Big Dawg”
Not only did the duo know how to have a good time, but they also shared a passion of music.
Daly is often heard belting out tunes on stage while enjoying a cocktail or two. The next time we see him perform, you can expect a Toby Keith classic to be in the setlist.
Others around the music industry were also quick to respond to Keith’s passing.
Jason Aldean, Zach Bryan react to Toby Keith’s passing
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. Gathering notes and thoughts to talk about it coming up…
— Bobby Bones (@mrBobbyBones) February 6, 2024
Radio host Bobby Bones posted a heartfelt message on X, reflecting on moments the two had shared in studio.
Singer Jason Aldean did the same, sharing his thoughts on the massive country music loss.
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. pic.twitter.com/M2RwMUFdKx
— Jason Aldean (@Jason_Aldean) February 6, 2024
Toby Keith’s music spanned generations, and in some ways was timeless.
Those known commodities were obviously familiar with his work and knew him on a more personal level, but those new to the scene also experienced grief.
Zach Bryan sent out a series of messages and lyrics on his X timeline after hearing the news.
“Come as you are, I love this bar.”
“We’ll put a boot in your a– it’s the American way.”
“Should’ve learned to rope and ride.”
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 (@zachlanebryan) February 6, 2024
Toby Keith’s music touched many. It’s a sad day for country music.