Country Legend Toby Keith Passed Away at 62 After Brave Battle with Stomach Cancer

Country music is in mourning as legendary singer Toby Keith, renowned for his timeless hit “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” passed away at the age of 62. His family shared the sad news in a statement posted on his website and social media accounts early Tuesday.

Toby Keith passed away peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family,” the statement conveyed. “He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.

The iconic country star disclosed his battle with stomach cancer in June 2022, revealing, “Last fall I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation, and surgery.” Despite the challenging journey, he expressed optimism, stating, “So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover, and relax. I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait. -T.”

Toby Keith, based in Oklahoma, rose to fame with the 1993 hit “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” a song that dominated radio stations with 3 million plays and became the most played country song of the 1990s. His impactful career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the country music landscape.

Among his notable achievements was receiving the Country Icon award at the inaugural “People’s Choice Country Music” awards in September 2023, a testament to his enduring influence and popularity in the genre. As fans and the music community mourn his loss, Toby Keith’s legacy lives on through his timeless contributions to the world of country music.