Country music star Toby Keith has died at the age of 62.
The singer's death was announced in a statement posted to his Facebook page, which explained he passed away on Monday (February 5) while surrounded by family.
The news comes more than a year after Keith, who was known for songs including 'Should've been a Cowboy' and 'I Love This Bar', announced he was living with cancer.
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"He fought with grace and courage," the statement said. "Please respect the privacy of his family at this time."
In June 2022, Keith shared news of his illness in a post on X, formerly Twitter, to say he had been diagnosed the previous fall.
"Last fall I was diagnosed with stomach cancer," Keith wrote. "I've spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation and surgery...
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"I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can't wait," the singer posted at the time.
Keith offered fans another update in September, shortly before he received the Country Icon Award at the People’s Choice Country Awards.
The singer told E! News the period since his diagnosis had been a 'bit of a roller coaster', but that he appreciated the chance to 'recognize [his] 30-year career' at the awards show.
"Those years of pounding those songs out there and remembering where you were when each one was conceived and all that, it’s amazing," he said.
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Keith released an incredible 28 studio and compilation albums throughout his career, generating millions of dollars in worldwide sales.
He had 32 number one hits with his success helping him become one of the biggest names in country music.
Tributes have poured in for Keith following the news of his death, with countless fans expressing their love for the singer.
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"RIP to a TRUE Legend, one of the BEST to ever do it..." one person commented. "You are now with Jesus, in a much, MUCH better place."
Another wrote: "One of my favorites. Toby was the soundtrack to many a night of friendship and cheer. A life well lived and a great contributor."
John Daly, pro-golfer and a longtime friend of Keith, expressed his grief as he commented on the statement on Instagram.
“My heart is truly broken… one of my best friends gone by this disease! RIP Big Dawg," Daly wrote.
Emily Brown