Country singer-songwriter Toby Keith, known for hits like "Beer For My Horses," has died at the age of 62. After a valiant battle with stomach cancer, Keith left this world on Monday, surrounded by his loved ones.
A statement released on his website praised the singer for his grace and courage throughout his fight. Keith had been diagnosed with cancer in 2022.
Toby Keith Covel, born on July 8, 1961, is a well-known American country music singer, songwriter, actor, and record producer. He began his career by releasing his first four studio albums under Mercury Records, namely Toby Keith (1993), Boomtown (1994), Blue Moon (1996), and Dream Walkin' (1997), along with a Greatest Hits compilation. These albums achieved Gold or higher certification and produced multiple Top Ten singles, including his debut hit "Should've Been a Cowboy," which topped the country charts and became the most-played country song of the 1990s, with over three million spins since its release, as reported by Broadcast Music Incorporated.
Although occasionally a divisive figure in the country music world, Keith rose to fame during the country boom of the 1990s. He embraced a tough and pro-American image, captivating fans with his macho persona and delivering songs that resonated with them. Throughout his career, he didn't shy away from clashing with fellow celebrities and journalists, and he often resisted the demands of record executives who wished to soften his rough edges.
Keith's patriotic spirit was evident in his songs such as "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue," which he released after the 9/11 attacks. He also delighted audiences with lively barroom anthems like "I Love This Bar" and "Red Solo Cup."
In 1998, Keith signed with DreamWorks Records Nashville and gained widespread recognition with his breakthrough single "How Do You Like Me Now?!" from his album of the same name in 1999. This song became the number one country song of 2000 and marked the beginning of a series of chart-topping hits during his time with DreamWorks Nashville.
In 2006, Keith made his acting debut by starring in the film Broken Bridges. Additionally, he co-starred with comedian Rodney Carrington in the 2008 film Beer for My Horses, which was inspired by his song of the same name.
Throughout his career, Keith has released a total of 19 studio albums, 2 Christmas albums, and 5 compilation albums. These albums have achieved remarkable success, with worldwide sales exceeding 40 million copies. On the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, Keith has charted an impressive 61 singles. Among these, he has secured 20 number one hits and an additional 22 top 10 hits.
Two of Keith's most notable number one hits are "Beer for My Horses," a duet with Willie Nelson in 2003, and "As Good as I Once Was" in 2005. Both songs held the top spot for an impressive six weeks each.
Recognizing his immense contributions to the arts, Keith was honored with the National Medal of Arts by President Donald Trump. This prestigious award was presented to him in a closed ceremony on January 13, 2021, alongside fellow musician Ricky Skaggs.
