The world of country music lost an icon in 2024 with the passing of Toby Keith after a battle with stomach cancer.

The 62-year-old was diagnosed in 2021, thereafter undergoing six months of treatment. Sadly, despite Keith’s undeniable bravery and assurances that he would doggedly fight the disease to the end, the How Do You Look Me Now? singer passed away on the evening of February 5, 2024.

His death naturally sent shockwaves throughout the music industry and beyond, not least among his legion of fans, many of whom were praying for his recovery.

It was in an Instagram post in June 2022 that Toby Keith revealed to the world that he had stomach cancer. The superstar said at the time that he was undergoing treatments including chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, and was looking to take time away from his career to be with his family.

“I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation, and surgery,” he wrote in a tweet. “So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax.”

“I am looking forward to spending time with my family,” Keith added. “But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.”