Toby Keith remembered: Country artists mourn death of singer who 'inspired millions'

After battling stomach cancer for over a year, country music star Toby Keith died on Monday. Tributes to the singer-songwriter have come from all corners of the entertainment industry.

The 62-year-old musician spent his last moments surrounded by family before he "passed away peacefully," according to a statement posted to his website and social media sites on Tuesday morning.

"He fought his fight with grace and courage," an X, formerly known as Twitter, post read. "Please respect the privacy of his family at this time."

News of Keith's death quickly spread and tributes from industry friends and fans have poured in for the "Beer for my Horses" singer.

Country music mourns the loss of Toby Keith

CMT posted a tribute to Keith on Twitter early Tuesday morning on X.

"CMT is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of country legend Toby Keith. Our hearts go out to his wife, Tricia, his children, and loved ones during this difficult time."

Fellow musicians shared tributes to Keith and memories associated with Keith's song. Zach Bryan wrote of the memory of rides in his "old man’s car listening to Toby Keith. really hard thing to hear rest in peace friend we love you."

Singer Luke Combs posted few words when hearing about Keith's death, but it was a statement that was repeated often in many social media posts on Tuesday.

"Damn, RIP Toby. Can’t believe it," Combs posted on X.

On the Instagram post of Keith's death, fans and fellow entertainers expressed their condolences.

"I loved him as a musician. A great Oklahoman. A great American. What a loss!" wrote Broadway actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth.

Jelly Roll also shared condolences and sorrow in an Instagram story. "Toby inspired millions and I was one of them."

Jason Aldean paid tribute to Keith with photos of their time on stage together and the loss of a staple in Country music.

"Just waking up to the news of Toby Keith’s passing. Today is a sad day for Country music and its fans," Aldean wrote on X. "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."

Radio and TV personality Bobby Bones wrote on X, "so sad to hear about Toby Keith dying. wow. He was just with us in studio and seemed super positive."

He remembered opening for Keith and being on tour with him.

On X, John Rich wrote, "Waking up to the terrible news that our friend, and legend @tobykeith has passed away from cancer. He was a true Patriot, a first class singer/songwriter, and a bigger than life kind of guy. He will be greatly missed."

Stomach cancer: Toby Keith announces diagnosis in 2022

Keith told the world of his stomach cancer diagnosis in June of 2022, saying he had been receiving radiation, chemotherapy and surgery for six months. "I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later," he said via Instagram. "I can’t wait."

His diagnosis didn't slow him down. Keith kept continued to appear at various events and even recorded an album.

Keith's last album, 'Songwriter' is a collection of 13 originally written hits from his career.

What is stomach cancer? What causes it?

According to the American Cancer Society, stomach cancer begins when cells in the stomach start to grow out of control. Stomach cancers tend to develop slowly over time. Before a true cancer develops, pre-cancerous changes can occur in the inner lining of the stomach. Because these changes rarely cause symptoms, they often go undetected.

Many risk factors increase the chances of getting cancer, such as age, sex, diet, and alcohol and tobacco use, among others. While some factors can be controlled, others can't. The American Cancer Society says it's not often clear exactly how different factors might affect how cells in the stomach become cancer cells.

Toby Keith's career in country music

Keith first made his appearance on the Country music scene in the 1990s with rough edges and as his career moved into the early 2000s, a patriotic flair.

He dominated 90s radio waves with his breakout hit "Should've Been a Cowboy." The song was played more than 3 million times on the radio.

His career was filled with public clashes with other celebrities and journalists, not to mention his perchance to push back against record executives who wanted to smooth his rough edges.

Keith made a real name for himself post 9/11 with songs like "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue," and his shows performed for military personnel and presidential events. He was also a barroom staple with music like "Red Solo Cup" and "I Love This Bar".

Toby Keith's last performance at the Grand Ole Opry

Keith was recently honored at the inaugural People's Choice Country Awards at the Grand Ole Opry in September 2023, where Blake Shelton awarded him with the “Country Icon” Award.

Keith is “the man who taught me more about performing than anyone else," said Shelton.

When coming into the award show, Keith remarked he was "working my way back into performing shape."

After accepting the award, Keith performed his song “Don’t Let the Old Man In.”

Watch his performance here.

Keith's last performance on stage was in Las Vegas in December 2023.

USA Today contributed to this report.

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This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Toby Keith death: Jelly Roll, Luke Combs, more remember country singer