Remembering Toby Keith: An Enigmatic, Patriotic Country Music Superstar
His legacy might not be as cut-and-dried as many Americans believe.
Larry Marano/Shutterstock
Whether you listen to country music or not, it’s likely that you can at least hum along to any one of the many hit songs recorded by Toby Keith over the past 30 years or so. And you probably also heard the news this week that he died at the age of 62 after a battle with cancer.
As is often the case when a celebrity dies, many fans posted social media tributes, fellow singers recalled fond memories, and there was also a bit of criticism woven into the conversation.
But whatever you think of him, the reality is probably more complex.
Post 9/11 patriotism
In many ways, he’s not that different from other country stars. His portfolio is full of requisite references to beer and cowboys.
He also tapped into the patriotism that resonates with so many country music fans … but he seemed to take it to another level.
In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, he penned “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” reportedly in just 20 minutes.
It became an anthem for America’s war on terror but also earned him the label among some folks as a pro-war extremist. So what’s the truth?
A political anomaly
Many of his fans and critics alike might be surprised to learn that he was a registered Democrat until 2008, when he became an independent. The next year, he was on hand to perform at an event celebrating then-President Obama’s Nobel Peace Prize.
Even when he performed at the Trump inauguration, he used the platform to give Obama a shout out.
While politics and patriotism might have defined his legacy, the man himself seemed far more interested in delivering a show that would have everyone — regardless of their background or ideology — singing along and tapping their toes.
Why Is The Aging Voyager 1 Probe Sending Back Incoherent Communications?
It's been speaking gibberish for a few months and officials are concerned.
One Woman’s Massive Donation Is Wiping Out Tuition At This Medical School
Her inheritance came with the instruction to do "whatever you think is right."
Woman’s Pets Will Inherit Her Multimillion-Dollar Fortune, Not Her Kids
It's not the first time four-legged heirs were named in a will.