Tonight, CMT will give a special nod to the late Toby Keith in a memorable send-off honoring the country singer’s impressive career and contributions to music.
The 30-minute CMT Remembers: Toby Keith tribute airs on February 8 at 8:00 p.m. on CMT. The network posted the news on X along with a brief video montage of his performances. The special will take an in-depth look at his music and the stories behind them, defined by his “spirit, patriotism, and renegade independence.”
“He was one of country music’s biggest stars, but he was much more than that,” the video narrates. “He was a symbol of the American pride and spirit that filled his songs. Join us as we say goodbye to Toby Keith.”
Keith began his singing career in the 90s with his first album, Toby Keith. He amassed 32 number-one hit songs, including “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” “I Love This Bar,” and “How Do You Like Me Now?!” Keith landed 61 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and another 42 songs ranking in the top ten, according to his official website. He released 19 studio albums, selling more than 40 million copies worldwide over three decades.
In 2021, Keith was diagnosed with stomach cancer and paused performances while undergoing treatments. Last Monday, he passed away surrounded by family at 62 years old.
“Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5, surrounded by his family,” said an announcement on Keith’s Instagram. “He fought his fight with grace and courage.”
Keither returned to the stage a handful of times since his diagnosis. Last December, he performed “Don’t Let the Old Man In” at the People’s Choice Country Awards after being honored as the PCCA’s Country Icon. His final shows were held in Las Vegas, where he performed three sold-out concerts.
Country fans and fellow musicians alike expressed their gratitude for Keith’s influential music.
“Too many rides in my old man’s car listening to Toby Keith,” Zach Bryan posted on X. “Really hard thing to hear. Rest in peace, friend, we love you.”
In 2004, Keith helped found Ally’s House, a nonprofit supporting pediatric cancer families in his home state of Oklahoma. In 2006, he founded the Toby Keith Foundation to support the OK Kids Korral, a nonprofit that provides no-cost housing for children fighting cancer.
CMT is available to stream on Hulu, Prime Video, Paramount+, Philo, and online.
Image credit: CMT