Country community reacts to Keith passing

The singer died of stomach cancer at the age of 62.

"Just waking up to the news of Toby Keith's passing," tweeted Jason Aldean. "Today is a sad day for Country music and its fans. Toby was a huge presence in our business and someone we all looked up to and respected. You and your music will be forever remembered big man."

Fellow Oklahoman Zach Bryan offered, "too many rides in my old man's car listening to Toby Keith. really hard thing to hear. rest in peace friend we love you."

Keith was a big fan of the University of Oklahoma and often showed up for football games. Athletic Director Joe Castiglione tweeted, "Can't believe we lost our dear personal friend, Toby Keith. Filled with deep sadness but flooded with wonderful memories too. He was as authentic as they come & did more for people than anyone will ever know. Please 🙏 for his entire family. Rest high on that mountain Big T."

DJ and performer Bonny Bones said, "so sad to hear about Toby Keith dying. wow. He was just with us in studio and seemed super positive. Ive had the honor of opening for him on his tour. playing with him at festivals. and having him, in studio many times."

Billy Ray Cyrus toured with Keith several times. "Stood me still with emotion and memories to see and hear of the loss of my friend...the legend...Toby Keith. Heart breaking with thoughts and prayers for his fans and family this morning. We toured together several times around the globe. He was always the kindest...sweetest gentle giant of an outlaw one could ever hope to entertain and make music with. Raising a Red Cup this morning and saying a prayer. Heavens a honkytonk tonight."

"Toby Keith was big, brash, and never bowed down or slowed down for anyone," said Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. "His story is a distinctly American one—a former roughneck oil worker who carved out his own space in country music with a sinewy voice and an unbending will to succeed. He wrote his breakthrough songs and later formed his own record label when he felt underserved by Nashville. He relished being an outsider and doing things his way. Proudly patriotic, he didn't mind if his clear-cut convictions ruffled your feathers. For three decades, he reflected the defiant strength of the country music audience. His memory will continue to stand tall."

Brantley Gilbert tweeted, "He was a class act, a friend and one of the most talented guys you'll ever meet... We'll miss you down here man... Rest in peace."