The country music community and fans alike came together on social media to pay tribute to Toby and here are just a few of the examples of the outpouring of love and respect for the country music icon:
“I was saddened to hear of Toby Keith’s passing. He really was one of the good guys. He helped a lot of people get started in the business. He loved God, he loved his family, and he was a true Patriot. He loved America. A friend to so many, including myself! Rest dear brother, you’re home at last!”
- Ricky Skaggs
"Toby did as much good off-stage as he did on it. I got to be a part of his OK Kids Korral a few years back, and we sang a few together to benefit those kids. A good man with a huge legacy that stands as tall as him."
- John Anderson
"You would have rather heard how Toby Keith beat cancer this morning as the broadcasts carry the news of his passing. What I knew was that he was a patriot and expressed it in his music and conversation. His love for our country. The realization of his mortality. His decision to trust and follow Christ made him more than a cowboy last night.
Condolences to Tricia and his family. RIP, TK."
- Marty Raybon / Shenandoah
"Toby has been an amazing friend with sound advice in some key moments in my life. This loss cuts deep but I’m so encouraged at the true faith that Toby has displayed and carries with him. I will continue to pray for his family, and there is no doubt that he is now in the peace that passes all understanding. You left this world a great gift in your songs! Rest high my brother and thank you!"
- Tim Rushlow / The Frontmen Live / Former lead singer of Little Texas
“Sometimes we use the word 'friend' when we really mean acquaintance. Toby Keith was my friend, and all I know is this. My friend Toby does not have cancer in Heaven this morning. As we’d say in OKLAHOMA and TEXAS, he was a good sumbich. That’s about the highest praise a TEXAN can give to someone. REST IN PEACE, COWBOY.”
- Larry Gatlin
"Toby Keith was his own man. He set a great example for all of us in life and in death. He had one shot at this, just like we all do, and he did it his way. I paid attention to his life and his career. He had a swagger that was a little different than most because he knew who he was. In life we have a chance to leave a mark that will not fade and he knocked it out of the park. In death we have a chance to exit this awful, beautiful life with grace and dignity. Toby just hit another grand slam and we could learn from this example. Sometimes it’s not about the elaborate production because sometimes the production is simply the actions of the man. God Bless you and your family and thank you for showing us all how it’s done."
- Darryl Worley
"Toby did it 'The Cowboy Way' with courage and dignity and his work will live on. Old Cowboys Never Die, they just ride away."
- Billy Dean
“We are saddened to hear of the passing of the great Toby Keith. What an amazing talent. We lost another Real Cowboy! Gone too soon but we know where he is. Ride in Peace, TK.”
- Doug Gray / The Marshall Tucker Band
"I’m so sorry to hear of Toby’s passing. He was a great singer, and his songwriting talent was enormous. My condolences to his family."
- Henry Paul / BlackHawk & The Outlaws
“We’ve lost a great one. Toby was an amazing talent and man. Sending prayers to his family and friends.”
- Aaron Tippin
"What a huge loss for the family of country music. I, like so many, loved Toby and his great songs! I was honored and proud to call him my friend. He was so much fun, always a gentleman and such a beautiful soul. Til we see you again, Rest in Heavenly Peace, Toby."
- Deborah Allen
“In 1991, we met Toby Keith just before we played a bar in Oklahoma City called Cowdaddies. We played a great round of golf with him that day and that started a friendship that lasted 33 years. We are so sad to learn of his passing, but he gave cancer a fight it'll never forget, just as he fought through his whole career. He was a great performer, writer, American and patriot, and we'll miss him terribly.”
- Little Texas
“Toby was a true American success story and never forgot what America stands for. He was an icon. God bless his family at this sorrowful time. R.I.P.”
- T. Graham Brown
“My friend Toby Keith was a legend not just in the country music format but all music.
He was also a great patriot who’s love for God, Family and Country was displayed in his music and more importantly in the life he lived. He will live on in the hearts of those lives he impacted and changed. His presence will forever be missed.
Praying for God’s peace for all who loved him.”
- Craig Morgan
“Our self titled debuts came out on the same day, April 20, 1993. Toby and I spent quite a bit of time together early in our careers. We had a lot of good times and conversations about what we wanted out of our careers and our lives. He was a maverick. He did things his way, on his terms, a true artist. 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.”
- Tim McGraw
“It breaks my heart to hear about the passing of Toby Keith. I’ve known Toby since I was a kid. He used to run around in the same circle as my dad. When I signed my first record deal in 2012, Toby was the very first person to take me on tour I watched his show every single night just trying to soak up as much as I could. I learned so much about how to write songs, how to perform, and how to entertain from Toby Keith. I am so honored to say that I got to share the stage with him. Toby. I hope your soul rests easy brother.”
- Thomas Rhett
“This is a heart breaker.. Toby Keith was one of the first to believe in us Flatts boys. He took us on the road and took a chance on us. We were fast friends and it still remains as one of the best tour experiences of my career. However, I got something even better out of it in the end, a lifelong friend. Rest in peace Toby, I’m sure gonna miss you.”
- Jay DeMarcus
“Saddle up the horses, Jesus, ‘cause a true blue COWBOY just made his ride up to heaven!!! Introduce him to all the Okies and sign that boy up for the choir! We’re gonna miss you, Toby, but my heart has no doubt that you are standing in the presence of our King right now!!! See you again someday, friend.”
- Carrie Underwood
“A troubadour gone too soon. We played together, we sang together. He was a friend, ornery, rough, tough, kind and loyal… if he liked you. A rascal, an outlaw with a big heart. He was opinionated, usually his way or the highway. A patriot that acted, didn’t just talk it. He was a loyal husband and proud loving father. He was a big man, a fighter… in the end life wins. Give ‘em hell up there my friend !!! Our love, prayers and condolences go out to his lovely wife Tricia, daughters Krystal, and Shelley and son Stelen.”
- Ronnie Dunn
“Toby was a real friend. I looked forward to visiting with him every time we talked together. A true superstar who was down to earth. His last email to Kelly and I broke our hearts. I loved Toby. I will miss his larger than life personality.
To his family I send my prayers for comfort in this loss of my friend."
- Randy Owen / ALABAMA
“Very few artists have the trifecta of excellent songwriter, excellent singer and a big heart for other people. Toby had all three. He also is one of the great American heroes that I have, personally.”
- Teddy Gentry / ALABAMA
"I woke up this morning and heard the bad news. Our Country Music Family has lost a monster singer, songwriter, entertainer and a true American Patriot in TOBY KEITH! I loved him as a friend and will miss him greatly! Rest in Peace, Toby."
- Ronnie Milsap
“Toby Keith wasn’t only an amazing singer-songwriter, a pioneer of truth-telling and a legend in his own right, but he was also a lover of God and Country. And above all, a Patriot. God bless Toby Keith and his family. Sending thoughts and prayers to his family and millions of fans around the world.”
- Aaron Lewis
"Toby Keith was a tried and true, red, white, and blue, AMERICAN BADASS! RIP TK, sure gonna miss ya Big Dog. Thanks for the music and all the great memories."
- Kid Rock
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Toby Keith family. May God give you comfort and peace."
- George & Norma Strait and Family
"Very few artists have impacted country music the way Toby Keith did. His songs. His performances. His writing. And all he stood for… he was one of a kind, and one of the best. I’ll always remember my first Toby concert in 2001 with my dad. His music will live on forever."
- Brett Kissell
"We lost a giant in Toby Keith. My condolences are with his family and those closest to him during this difficult time. Toby was a man among men, an American patriot who LOVED the troops, and a music legend. I am forever grateful for his impact on my life as a fan and friend."
- Rodney Atkins
Lost a dear friend today. My good pal, Toby Keith. "I’m without words right now. He was a sweet dear man and an unbelievable patriot! God bless 🙏🏻❤️🇺🇸 Toby Keith."
- Carrot Top
"“If you ask people from other countries, what does America really looks like? Looks like Toby Keith. Sounds like Toby Keith. Acts like Toby Keith.”
- Brian Bosworth
"Wounded Warrior Project mourns the loss of Toby Keith, an advocate for veterans. His support for WWP and our nation's heroes will always be remembered. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time."
- Wounded Warrior Project
"So saddened by the passing of Toby Keith. One of the greatest musicians of our time and a good man. We lost him way too soon. Rest easy, my friend 🩵🙏🩵"
- Mack Brown (Coach)
"A friend of ours and of the AmFam Championship! Loved the guy the first time I spent time with him. We’re praying for his family during this time of sadness. RIP Toby!
We will miss you! "
- Steve Stricker (Golfer)
"Toby Keith was a force to be reckoned with 32 #1 hits, 30 years in the music business, a proficient songwriter, an unforgettable voice, and a staunch supporter of the US military. Not many people know what it takes to have a 30 year career, but you have to be incredibly tough."
- Josh Turner
"My heart is deeply saddened today at the news of my friend Toby Keith's passing. Toby was a good man, a kind man and a wonderful artist and songwriter. Toby stood for good things. He has now left his physical suffering behind and has passed on to The Heavenly Realm. He will be very missed here. May God be with you, brother."
- Collin Raye
"Thank you Toby Keith. You inspired me and the next generation of cowboys we’ll ride on with you and make sure our flag flies high."
- Dustin Lynch
"Extremely Saddened by the passing of Toby Keith, Rest in peace my friend."
- Clint Eastwood
"I found myself awake at 1:48am when I learned of Toby Keith’s passing. Gone too soon. I had the privilege of working with Toby Keith when recording our "Stars and Stripes" album. Toby’s big booming voice brought Be True to Your School to life in ways I’d never imagined. Toby was great to work with, a deep and kind spirit really devoted to music. He had a way of communicating the full range of human emotion so poetically through song. Thank you Toby for the gift of your music and musicianship."
-Mike Love (The Beach Boys)
I'd like to extend my heartfelt condolences to Toby’s family. I think I’ll stay up a little longer and listen to Toby’s “Red Solo Cup“ and “How do you like me now.” RIP Toby. Even though I knew about your battle these last few months, I still never imagined this day. Anyone who knew you knows what I mean. You were the toughest man I ever met. Thank you brother for being a friend, a hero and an inspiration. There will never be another Toby Keith."
- Blake Shelton
"My heart is bleeding for Toby Keith & his family. He was so kind, patriotic, loved his country and loved his fans! My thoughts & everything I can muster goes to his wife & family in hopes that he gives them the strength! Sleep well my friend!
It won’t be the same without you💔"
- Tanya Tucker
"I’m broken hearted by the news of my friend Toby Keith's passing. We shared many stages together & a deep love of the music business & the people in it. He was an amazing singer, songwriter, & performer. You will truly be missed my friend. I’ll see you on the other side."
- Tracy Lawrence
"Toby Keith has gone home … This is very sad news … We loved and respected him on every level and whispered many a prayer for him as he fought this illness. God must have needed a big hearted Oklahoma singing boy for the great choir. Well, he got one. #RIPTobyKeith"
- The Oak Ridge Boys
"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."
- Jason Aldean
"We lost an absolute legend. Toby Keith paved waves for so many in country music and never wavered from his beliefs or values. Something we all should admire/respect. Also such a killer performer and songwriter. Rip TK, you’re one in a million brotha."
- Gary LeVox
"Toby was an amazing singer-songwriter. We got started together around the same time when we were labelmates at Mercury Records. I'm glad to see the outpouring of love for a great guy. And man, did he love my Hot Chicken! He was blessed and now God is blessing him again."
- Sammy Kershaw
"Toby Keith did things his way - amazing artist, songwriter, patriot and man of faith. I admired him and how he rolled. He and I shared a deep love for our military and I’m proud that he took his music to dangerous places in order to give American spirit to those protecting freedom. I was pleased that he called me the OG and was honored to work with him a few times through the years. Please join our family in praying for the Covel family. I am confident that Toby was met at the pearly gates by patriots who have gone before and is resting in the arms of Jesus."
- Lee Greenwood
"We are saddened by the passing of Toby Keith. He dedicated years of his life performing for the troops, with 11 overseas tours with The USO and many performances, charity events, and tributes here in the United States."
- @USArmy on X
"Toby Keith meant what he wrote and what he sang. His music moved people. For years, I’ve walked out to “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue” at major speeches. Few songs like it capture America’s fighting spirit. 🇺🇸 Toby will be missed, and our prayers are with his family."
- @KristiNoem on X
"I met Toby for the first time when Mercury Records president Harold Shedd asked me to attend a showcase for Toby and two other acts he had just signed to the label. Toby had a great sense of humor and through the years would show up at our shows out of the blue and jump on-stage with us to sing 'Dumas Walker!' He just loved to surprise people and have fun. I especially remember one time in New York City, which was about as far from Oklahoma and Kentucky as you can get, we were playing the Lone Star Roadhouse. And out nowhere, here comes Toby out of the audience and jumped on-stage! I always loved the fact that he was a country act but was not afraid to add a horn section to his songs and live show. He broke a few rules but made certain things were OK for those who came after him."
- Richard Young / The Kentucky Headhunters
"Toby Keith was pro-America without apology. He wrote songs about the values our nation was founded upon - faith, family, hard work, patriotism. He refused to bow to toxic cancellation or anti-Americanism. Our country is better because of men like Toby Keith. Rest in peace."
- @VivekRamaswamy on X
"Toby Keith story time. This is the only story I have because I only met him once. Back in 2010, Toby was on the USO tour in Iraq. (He went on 11 of them.) During his set, indirect fire was coming into the base. It was probably just 107mm rockets or mortars. The alarm came on “Incoming, incoming, incoming…” Everyone got down. A few explosions could be heard in the distance; they probably just hit the airfield. Then Toby Keith came back on stage and said…. “HEY AL QAEDA, YOUUUUUU MISSED!” 🤣🤣🤣 The amount of laughter that erupted after he said that could probably be registered on the Richter scale. This one stings me personally because he did more for Veterans and outreach than I think even our federal government has. To the ones mocking his death, sincerely go f**k yourselves."
- @SteveLovesAmmo on X
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