Internationally acclaimed country singer Toby Keith passed away this week after a long battle with cancer. While he’ll be remembered most for hits like “Should Have Been a Cowboy” and “Red Solo Cup,” Keith also loved the outdoors, especially fishing.
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“Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5, surrounded by his family,” read a statement according to American Songwriter. “He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”
Keith’s rise to fame came in the early ‘90s with his debut album, but more recently, he made headlines after purchasing a fishing lure and bait company. Keith purchased Luck E Strike in May of last year.
After the purchase, the company relaunched its focus on a “traditional American-made division in Greenwood, Arkansas.” The partnership was an obvious match.
“They’ve got a lot of history,” Keith said in a press release at the time. “It’s actually one of the earliest fishing brands that is universally stocked in national retailers.”
Jimmy Houston Outdoors, a well-known fishing show that’s aired for decades, has been an ambassador for Luck E Strike for years. Houston said this about the acquisition last year:
“In addition to being one of the best singers and songwriters, Toby Keith is an incredible patriot. Tying those two together in an American lure company known for making outstanding bass and crappie lures at great prices is so exciting. As his friend, I’m happy seeing the fire in his eyes over this company. It’s a big deal for the fishing industry as a whole to have him involved and bringing this brand back to where it ought to be.”
Keith made his final television appearance last year during the People’s Choice Awards on September 28. Keith had battled stomach cancer since 2021 and said it was a “roller coaster.”
Find ongoing coverage of Keith on AmericanSongwriter.com.
