Introduction:
Nashville, TN – On July 29, 2024, country star Trace Adkins joined a lineup of music’s biggest names to pay tribute to his late friend, Toby Keith, during a special charity concert at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The event, titled Toby Keith: American Icon, celebrated the life and legacy of the legendary singer-songwriter, who passed away on February 5, 2024, following a courageous battle with stomach cancer.
More than just a night of music, the benefit concert carried a deeper purpose. Proceeds from ticket sales supported the Toby Keith Foundation’s OK Kids Korral — a cost-free home for children undergoing cancer treatment and their families — as well as the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.
The all-star lineup included Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Brantley Gilbert, Carrie Underwood, Darius Rucker, Luke Bryan, and many others, along with Keith’s daughter, Krystal Keith, who also took the stage in honor of her father. For those unable to attend in person, NBC broadcast the two-hour concert special on August 28, 2024, at 9 PM ET. Due to overwhelming response, the network re-aired the show nearly a year later on August 27, 2025.
Trace Adkins’ Moving Tribute
Adkins, one of Keith’s closest friends in the industry, gave one of the night’s most powerful moments. Known for their longtime camaraderie, Adkins had previously shared his grief in a heartfelt social media post after Keith’s passing, writing:
“It takes a Hall of Fame songwriter to leave me at a loss for words. We had some times. Rest easy, Dawg.”
At the benefit concert, Adkins chose to honor Keith by performing “American Soldier,” a song that carried deep meaning for both artists and their fans. Fighting back emotion, Adkins told the crowd:
“I could talk all night about Toby, but I’m just gonna say that I was proud to have known him and call him a friend. Thanks, Dog. I miss you.”
His performance was raw, heartfelt, and deeply personal — a perfect reminder of the bond the two singers shared and the lasting impact Keith made on country music and beyond.