Two years ago today, the world of country music lost one of its most unmistakable voices. Toby Keith, the Oklahoma-born singer, songwriter, producer, and actor, passed away in his sleep at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy that continues to echo across stages, radios, and hearts around the world.

Keith burst onto the scene in 1993 with his debut single, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” a song that didn’t just top the U.S. country charts—it became the most‑played country song of the entire 1990s. According to Broadcast Music Incorporated, the track has earned more than three million spins, cementing its place as a modern classic and a defining anthem of the decade.

Over the course of his career, Keith released 19 studio albums and charted 61 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Twenty of those climbed all the way to No. 1, showcasing his ability to blend storytelling, humor, patriotism, and heartache into songs that resonated with millions. From rowdy barroom favorites to tender ballads, Keith’s music carried a signature grit and warmth that made him one of country music’s most recognizable figures.

In June 2022, Keith shared publicly that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer. Even during treatment, he remained connected to his fans, performing when he could and expressing gratitude for the support that poured in from across the country. His resilience, humor, and honesty during that time only deepened the admiration so many already felt for him.

Today, on the second anniversary of his passing, fans remember not just the performer, but the man behind the music—a proud Oklahoman, a dedicated family man, a USO supporter who played for troops around the world, and an artist who never shied away from singing what he believed.

Toby Keith’s songs continue to fill the airwaves, the playlists, and the memories of those who grew up with his voice as part of the soundtrack of their lives. Two years later, his legacy remains as strong as ever—proof that great songs, and great storytellers, never truly fade.