Country Music Legend Toby Keith Passes Away at 62

Country music legend Toby Keith, known for chart-topping hits like "Should've Been a Cowboy" and "Who's Your Daddy," has passed away at the age of 62 after battling stomach cancer.

In a statement released on his social media channels, it was announced that Keith died peacefully surrounded by his family. The statement highlighted his valiant fight against the debilitating illness, showcasing his grace and dignity throughout.

Keith, an Oklahoma native, rose to prominence in the 1990s with his debut single "Should've Been a Cowboy," which soared to the top of the country music charts. Despite his musical success, Keith's journey to stardom wasn't conventional, having worked in oil fields and pursued a semi-professional career in American Football before pursuing music full-time.

Throughout his illustrious career spanning over three decades, Keith's music resonated with millions, with hits like "Made in America" and "Courtesy of the Red White and Blue (The Angry American)" cementing his status as a country music icon. However, it was his patriotic themes that sometimes drew controversy, particularly with the latter song, which came under fire for its perceived chauvinistic lyrics in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.

Despite occasional controversies, Keith remained a beloved figure in the country music scene, performing at events for multiple US presidents, including George W Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. In 2021, Keith was honoured with a National Medal of the Arts by then-President Trump.

Keith's legacy in country music will endure, leaving behind a catalogue of timeless hits and a lasting impact on the genre. He is survived by his wife, Tricia Lucus, and three children, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of music lovers worldwide.