In the early hours of Tuesday morning, heartbreaking news out of the music world broke. Toby Keith has died at the age of 62 following a two-year battle with stomach cancer. Many fans of the country singer , who was known for songs such as “Red Solo Cup,” are already paying tribute to him on social media, and that includes his fellow musicians and stars, who are reacting to the news online. There’s no doubt that this celebrity death is one that’s going to be felt for a long time.
Toby Keith died on Monday.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Toby Keith (@tobykeith)
In a statement his family shared on social media, they wrote, “Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on Feb. 5 surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”
He was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2021.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Toby Keith (@tobykeith)
In June 2022, Toby took to Instagram to share the news with his fans, letting them know that he had been diagnosed the previous fall.
“I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax,” he wrote. “I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.”
Celebrities are already paying tribute to Toby.
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. pic.twitter.com/M2RwMUFdKx — Jason Aldean (@Jason_Aldean) February 6, 2024
After a career that spanned more than three decades, Toby has touched so many lives, from the fans who loved his music to his fellow country stars who are already sharing their tributes and favorite memories of Toby online.
Many of the stars remembering Toby are fellow country musicians.
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… pic.twitter.com/9a2RauHo5p — Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) February 6, 2024
“RIP Toby Keith – Tell folks you love them while you can. Life is short … the older I get, the more I realize how true it is,” Cole Swindell tweeted .
“So sad to hear about Toby Keith dying. Wow. He was just with us in studio and seemed super positive,” radio host Bobby Bones added in a tweet of his own. “I’ve had the honor of opening for him on his tour. playing with him at festivals. and having him, in studio many times.”
Toby’s contributions to music will live on.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Toby Keith (@tobykeith)
Along with a successful career, Toby leaves behind wife Tricia Lucus and their three adult children: Krystal, Shelley, and Stelen.
May his family receive all the time and privacy they need to grieve what must be such a huge loss — one that will be felt all over the world.
