Luke Combs made a heartfelt gesture to honor the late Toby Keith during a recent performance in Norman, Okla. The country music superstar, known for his hits and his two-time Entertainer of the Year wins, captivated fans at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on Saturday, May 9. Before his set, Combs paid tribute to fellow Okie Keith by walking out on stage wearing a white ball cap with “Toby” emblazoned on the front. The audience was moved as Combs took the stage backed by Keith’s classic hit “Should’ve Been a Cowboy.” Combs wore the hat throughout the entire concert, showing his respect for the late country legend.
Fans, both in attendance and online, were touched by Combs’ gesture and took to social media to express their appreciation for the nod to Toby Keith. “This gave me chills! How cool,” wrote one fan on Keith’s Instagram page, while another commented, “Honoring Toby Keith is a Rock Star move!!! ❤️.” A third fan added, “Epic start to the concert.”
This isn’t the first time Combs has paid homage to Keith. In 2024, he delivered a memorable rendition of “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville as a tribute to the iconic musician. The song, written solely by Keith and released in 1993, became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and becoming a staple at Oklahoma State University sporting events.
Keith passed away on February 5, 2024, after a courageous battle with stomach cancer. He was 62. Combs is currently on his My Kinda Saturday Night tour, with upcoming performances at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisc., on May 15-16.
Combs’ touching tribute to Toby Keith shows the respect and admiration he has for his musical hero. The simplicity of wearing the hat throughout the concert spoke volumes about his appreciation for Keith’s impact on the country music industry. Combs’ gesture is a reminder of the connections and influences that shape the music we love.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.