Legends Never Die: Toby Keith

(photo courtesy of People.com)

Toby Keith, an American country music songwriter and legend, dies at 62 from stomach cancer.​
​by Makenzee Kelley

Toby Keith, an American country music songwriter and legend, dies at 62 from stomach cancer. He was diagnosed in the fall of 2021. Toby Keith is known for some of his most popular songs like, “Red Solo Cup”, “Should’ve Been A Cowboy”, “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue”, and countless other masterpieces. 

Sadie West, a 9th grader at WGHS, felt as though his death was very tragic. “I’m just glad he’s not in pain anymore, though,” she states. “It must be rough dealing with stomach cancer. So I’m glad he’s not suffering.” Sadie continues on with, “I really liked his songs, ‘Beer For My Horses’ and ‘Should’ve Been A Cowboy’. Call me a poser if you want, but I really do like them.” She continues on, expressing her adoration for some other music stars. “I am really fond of Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, and Miranda Lambert. I think Luke Combs will 100% become another legend like Toby Keith. I know he’s already super famous and all, but I can totally see him going further on in his career.” 

Kaylee Wells, a 10th grader at WGHS, gives her input. “I feel very sad about his passing. He was a good person and a great singer. I really liked his songs, ‘Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue’, ‘Should’ve Been A Cowboy’, ‘Red Solo Cup’, and ‘Trailer Hood’.” Kaylee commented about some other artists she thoroughly enjoys. “I really like other country artists, like Parker McCollum, George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson.” She finishes with describing who she thinks could be another legend like Toby Keith. “Say what you want, but I think Morgan Wallen will go down in history one day. He’s already a popular singer and his fame just grows more every year.”

The man, the myth, the legend. Rest in peace, Toby Keith. He passed away after a long struggle with stomach cancer. Every year, approximately 26,000 people go through the same struggle of just stomach cancer alone, and about half of them unfortunately don’t make it. There are many ways to help support cancer research. Think about making donations, or even just writing a sweet note to a suffering patient.