Toby Keith remembered: Country artists and others share tributes of singer who 'inspired millions'

After battling stomach cancer for over a year, country music star Toby Keith died on Monday. Tributes to the singer-songwriter have come from all corners of the entertainment industry.

The 62-year-old musician spent his last moments surrounded by family before he "passed away peacefully," according to a statement posted to his website and social media sites on Tuesday morning.

"He fought his fight with grace and courage," read a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Please respect the privacy of his family at this time."

News of Keith's death quickly spread and tributes from industry friends and fans have poured in for the "Beer for my Horses" singer.

Country musicians and others mourn the loss of Toby Keith

Academy of Country Music CEO Damon Whiteside shared a statement with the Tennessean following the news of Keith's death.

“Toby Keith was a powerhouse singer-songwriter, performer, entrepreneur, and country music icon who defined the last several decades of country music and influenced a generation of talent,” said Whiteside.

Whiteside said they were able to celebrate Toby countless times over the years at the Academy - twice as the ACM Entertainer of the Year and more than a dozen of other trophies such as the ACM Poet’s Award for songwriting and the ACM Career Achievement Award.

Whiteside expressed gratitude that the Academy was able to honor Toby with the ACM Spirit Award in 2021, presented to a singer-songwriter who continues the legacy of Merle Haggard — one of Keith's heroes.

"Additionally, his phenomenal commitment to philanthropy and serving the community throughout his career echoes in the work of ACM Lifting Lives. On behalf of our staff, Board, and membership, we send our love to Toby’s family, friends, and fans of his incredible music."

"His legacy in country music will live on forever," he added.

CMT posted a tribute to Keith on Twitter early Tuesday morning on X.

"CMT is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of country legend Toby Keith. Our hearts go out to his wife, Tricia, his children, and loved ones during this difficult time."

Fellow musicians shared tributes to Keith and memories associated with Keith's song. The queen of country music Dolly Parton posted on X, "It is 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."

Zach Bryan wrote of the memory of rides in his "old man’s car listening to Toby Keith. really hard thing to hear rest in peace friend we love you."

Singer Luke Combs posted few words when hearing about Keith's death, but it was a statement that was repeated often in many social media posts on Tuesday.

"Damn, RIP Toby. Can’t believe it," Combs posted on X.

On the Instagram post of Keith's death, fans and fellow entertainers expressed their condolences.

"I loved him as a musician. A great Oklahoman. A great American. What a loss!" wrote Broadway actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth.

Jelly Roll also shared condolences and sorrow in an Instagram story. "Toby inspired millions and I was one of them."

Jason Aldean paid tribute to Keith with photos of their time on stage together and the loss of a staple in Country music.

"Just waking up to the news of Toby Keith’s passing. Today is a sad day for Country music and its fans," Aldean wrote on X. "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."

Radio and TV personality Bobby Bones wrote on X, "so sad to hear about Toby Keith dying. wow. He was just with us in studio and seemed super positive."

He remembered opening for Keith and being on tour with him.

On X, John Rich wrote, "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."

Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame called Keith big, brash, and said he never bowed down or slowed down for anyone.

"He relished being an outsider and doing things his way. For three decades, he reflected the defiant strength of the country music audience," he said in a post on X. "His memory will continue to stand tall."

Lee Ann Womack expressed on X she was feeling low due to the news and said Keith was treasured in her family and will certainly be missed.

"I know he was a believer and is with the Almighty," she said. "Much love to his family. You’re in our prayers."

First lady of the United States Jill Biden expressed her condolences on X.

"Cancer truly touches us all," she said. In 2023, Biden had two cancerous lesions removed, as reported by the Associated Press. "Rest in peace, Toby Keith."

Nashville's Old Dominion called Keith a trailblazer on X, said he was authentic, heartfelt and "always with a wink 'til the end.

"He was larger than life in so many ways and his music will live on forever!" read their post. "Raising our red solos tonight—you will be missed by so many."

"Peace."

The Oak Ridge Boys shared on X that they prayed for Keith as he battled cancer. They wrote that they were sad to hear the news of his passing as they loved and respected Keith on every level.

"God must have needed a big hearted Oklahoma singing boy for the great choir. Well, he got one #RIPTobyKeith" read their post.

Luke Bryan shared in a post to Facebook that he was notified of the news as he arrived to American Idol.

"An iconic artist and a great man." he wrote. "Your songs turn every room into a good time"

In a post to X, Carrie Underwood shared a series of photos alongside Keith and said a "true, blue cowboy just made his ride up to heaven."

"We’re gonna miss you, Toby, but my heart has no doubt that you are standing in the presence of our King right now!!!" she said. "See you again someday, friend."

In a Facebook post, Tim McGraw reflected on memories he shared with Keith — the release of their self-titled albums on the same day in 1993 and spending time together early in their careers. McGraw said the two shared good times and conversations about what they each wanted out of their careers and lives. Keith was a "maverick," said McGraw.

"He did things his way, on his terms, a true artist," he added. "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."

"Country music lost a legend today," said Darius Rucker on Facebook. "RIP Toby."

Trace Adkins shared a photo of himself alongside Keith during a performance on Facebook and said it could take only a Hall of Fame songwriter to leave him at a loss for words.

"We had some times," he said. "Rest easy, Dawg."

Iconic Nashville music venue, The Bluebird Cafe wrote on Facebook that their hearts were broken to hear of Keith's death.

"Toby was larger than life; a man of character, whose life experience influenced his songs and his career, uniting him to his fan base through his music," read the post.

While Keith performed at the venue numerous times, the venue recalled one specific evening in 2009 when Keith performed alongside Scotty Emerick and Bobby Pinson during a fundraiser. The venue called the show "irreverent," "hilariously funny" and "one-of-a-kind."

The money raised that night allowed the Bluebird to renovate their restrooms, which caused Keith to laugh anytime venue officials reminded him and thanked him.

"Saying goodbye is hard. We will miss Toby Keith; his music, his spirit and his generosity."

Stomach cancer: Toby Keith announces diagnosis in 2022

Keith told the world of his stomach cancer diagnosis in June of 2022, saying he had been receiving radiation, chemotherapy and surgery for six months. "I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later," he said via Instagram. "I can’t wait."

His diagnosis didn't slow him down. Keith kept continued to appear at various events and even recorded an album.

Keith's last album, 'Songwriter' is a collection of 13 originally written hits from his career.

What to know: Toby Keith's 'feud' and four other things you may not have known about the larger-than-life singer

What is stomach cancer? What causes it?

According to the American Cancer Society, stomach cancer begins when cells in the stomach start to grow out of control. Stomach cancers tend to develop slowly over time. Before a true cancer develops, pre-cancerous changes can occur in the inner lining of the stomach. Because these changes rarely cause symptoms, they often go undetected.

Many risk factors increase the chances of getting cancer, such as age, sex, diet, and alcohol and tobacco use, among others. While some factors can be controlled, others can't. The American Cancer Society says it's not often clear exactly how different factors might affect how cells in the stomach become cancer cells.

Toby Keith's career in country music

Keith first made his appearance on the Country music scene in the 1990s with rough edges and as his career moved into the early 2000s, a patriotic flair.

He dominated 90s radio waves with his breakout hit "Should've Been a Cowboy." The song was played more than 3 million times on the radio.

His career was filled with public clashes with other celebrities and journalists, not to mention his perchance to push back against record executives who wanted to smooth his rough edges.

Keith made a real name for himself post 9/11 with songs like "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue," and his shows performed for military personnel and presidential events. He was also a barroom staple with music like "Red Solo Cup" and "I Love This Bar".

Toby Keith's last performance at the Grand Ole Opry

Keith was recently honored at the inaugural People's Choice Country Awards at the Grand Ole Opry in September 2023, where Blake Shelton awarded him with the “Country Icon” Award.

Keith is “the man who taught me more about performing than anyone else," said Shelton.

When coming into the award show, Keith remarked he was "working my way back into performing shape."

After accepting the award, Keith performed his song “Don’t Let the Old Man In.”

Watch his performance here.

Keith's last performance on stage was in Las Vegas in December 2023.

USA Today contributed to this report.

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This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Toby Keith death: Jelly Roll, Luke Combs, share tributes, memories