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It was a night of unforgettable memories, heartfelt tributes, and toe-tapping tunes as the country music world gathered to honor one of its own.
The “Toby Keith: American Icon” tribute concert, held at Nashville’s iconic Bridgestone Arena and aired onNBC, was a fitting farewell to the legendary Toby Keith, whopassedaway earlier this year.
From country music superstars to upcoming talents, a dazzling array of artists took the stage to pay tribute to Keith’s remarkable career and enduring influence.
The Stars Align for Toby
The star-studded event was packed with performances from some of country music’s biggest names, includingCarrie Underwood, Luke Bryan,Eric Church, Lainey Wilson, and Jelly Roll, to name just a few.
Each artist brought their unique flair to the stage, making the night a vibrant mix of music, emotion, and celebration. As the arena lights dimmed and the first notes played, the air was thick with anticipation and excitement.
The sold-out concert not only drew in fans but also a slew of Keith’s friends andfamily, including his daughter Krystal Keith and wife Tricia Covel.
The emotional reunion of the Keith family, fans, and fellow artists served as a poignant reminder of the legacy Keith left behind.
The stars filled the tribute night with their soulful performances:
Eric Church
One of the standout moments of the evening came whenEric Churchtook the stage.
Known for his own maverick spirit, Church shared a heartfelt story about Keith, revealing that Keith had been one of the first to offer him a chance to perform when he was struggling to find his footing in the music industry.
“Toby Keith was the guy that called and said, ‘Hey, why don’t you come play shows with me?’”
Church reminisced. As he performed“I’m Not as Good as I Once Was,”a sense of gratitude and nostalgia filled the arena, bridging the past and present.
Lainey Wilson
Lainey Wilson made sure her entrance was one for the books. Riding in on her horse, Cowboy, from her role in the hit TV seriesYellowstone, Wilson added a cinematic flair to the tribute.
She dismounted at the edge of the stage and joined Jamey Johnson for a powerful rendition of“Beer for My Horses,”a song synonymous with Keith’s playful and patriotic spirit.
The performance was met with roaring applause, reflecting both the love for Keith’s music and the excitement of seeing aYellowstonestar bring a bit of the Wild West to Nashville.
Jamey Johnson and Lainey Wilson perform onstage for the Toby Keith. Credit: Jason Kempin/Getty
Luke Bryan
ForLuke Bryan,the evening wasn’t just about paying tribute to a musical hero; it was personal. Sporting a black cowboy hat, Bryan explained its sentimental value, having been a gift from his late sister during his early days singing Keith’s songs in Georgia bars.
“I used to wear this hat every night,”Bryan shared, his voice tinged with emotion.“Ever since I lost my sister, I haven’t put this hat onstage in a lot of years. But tonight felt like the right time.”
As he performed“Should’ve Been a Cowboy,”it was clear that the hat, much like Keith’s influence, carried memories and meaning.
Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll, a relative newcomer in comparison to some of the evening’s other performers, offered one of the most touching tributes.
Before diving into“My List,”Jelly Roll spoke candidly about how Keith’s music had inspired him to be a better father.
Addressing Keith’s family, who were seated near a giant American flag and a group of soldiers, Jelly Roll’s performance was a powerful reminder of the impact of Keith’s lyrics, which often celebrated the small, meaningful moments in life.
As the song’s lyrics resonated through the arena, many in the audience were moved to tears, including Keith’s son,Stelen Covel.
The evening wouldn’t have been complete without aperformancefrom Keith’s own daughter, Krystal Keith.
Stepping onto the stage, she delivered a touching rendition of“Don’t Let the Old Man In,”a song that held special significance for her father.
Before performing, Krystal shared her concerns about getting through the song due to its emotional weight. But as she sang, her voice filled with both strength and vulnerability, it was clear that she was channeling her father’s spirit, offering a moving tribute that underscored the deep bond they shared.
Tyler Hubbard
While many of the evening’s performances were heavy with emotion, Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line brought a burst of energy to the stage with“Red Solo Cup.”
The carefree anthem, which Keith himself had humorously dubbed“the stupidest song that I have ever heard in my life,”had the entire arena on their feet.
With the help of other artists like Jordan Davis,HARDY,and Jelly Roll, Hubbard’s performance turned into a full-blown party, reminding everyone that Keith’s music was as much about having fun as it was about heartfelt storytelling.
A Surprise from the Studio: Keith’s Final Recording
In a poignant and unexpected moment, Jelly Roll introduced avideoof Keith’s final studio session, where he recorded“Ships That Don’t Come In” for HARDY’sHixtapeVolume 3.
The song, originally by Joe Diffie, held a special place in Keith’s heart, and his rendition was a haunting reminder of his talent and passion.
The video played to a silent audience, with many wiping away tears as they watched Keith’s final performance, a testament to his enduring legacy.
Trace Adkins
Trace Adkins, one of Keith’s closest friends, took the stage to perform“American Soldier,”one of Keith’s most iconic songs honoring the military.
His powerful voice, coupled with the presence of a U.S. Army color guard, created a stirring tribute to the men and women who serve.
Adkins’ performance was a highlight of the night, encapsulating Keith’s deep respect and admiration for those who protect and serve the country.
Closing with a Bang: Parker McCollum and the All-Star Finale
As the evening drew to a close, the stage was set for a powerful finale. Parker McCollum, one of the newer faces in country music, had the honor of leading the cast in Keith’s iconic“Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue (The Angry American).”
As he sang, he was joined by all the night’s performers, creating a powerful chorus that filled the arena. The audience, too, joined in, singing along to every word of the patriotic anthem.
It was a fitting end to a night that celebrated not only the man and his music but also the values he held dear.
While the music was the star of the evening, the tribute also highlighted Keith’sphilanthropicefforts.
A portion of the concert’s proceeds was donated to The Toby Keith Foundation’s OK Kids Korral, a cost-free home in Oklahoma City for families of children dealing with critical illnesses, as well as to the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.
These gestures of generosity reflected Keith’s enduring commitment to giving back, a legacy that continues to inspire.
Toby Keith: Career Highlights and Notable Songs
Year
Album
Notable Songs
Achievements
1993
Toby Keith
“Should’ve Been a Cowboy”
Debut album, Gold certification
1996
Boomtown
“Who’s That Man”
Platinum certification
1999
How Do You Like Me Now?!
“How Do You Like Me Now?!”
Multi-Platinum certification
2003
Shock’n Y’All
“American Soldier,” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)”
CMA Album of the Year, Multi-Platinum
2006
White Trash With Money
“Beer for My Horses,” “Big Blue Note”
Platinum certification
2009
American Ride
“American Ride”
Gold certification
2012
Clancy’s Tavern
“Red Solo Cup”
Gold certification
2015
35 MPH Town
“Drinks After Work”
Gold certification
2018
The Boot, Vol. 1
“Don’t Let the Old Man In”
Critically acclaimed, Grammy nomination
2020
Toby Keith’s Greatest Hits
“The Critic’s Choice”
Compilation album, Platinum certification
Toby Keith: Career Highlights and Notable Songs.
A Night to Celebrate, Remember, and Honor
As the lights dimmed and the crowd slowly began to disperse, there was a sense that the spirit of Toby Keith would continue to live on, not just in the hearts of his family and friends but in the music that had brought them all together.
The “Toby Keith: American Icon” tribute was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of a life well-lived, a legacy that will continue to inspire, and a reminder of the power of music to bring people together.
For one night in Nashville, Toby Keith’s spirit was alive and well, reminding everyone that while he may be gone, his influence will never fade.
Toby Keith HONORED by Lainey Wilson, Luke Bryan & More in Tribute Concert
Last Updated: August 30, 2024
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