The Disappointment Over the 2024 CMA Awards' Toby Keith Tribute

Tribute Details and Host Reactions

During the 2024 Country Music Awards, Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson, and Peyton Manning raised a red Solo Cup as a gesture to Toby Keith's "Red Solo Cup." They briefly spoke about honoring the deceased country star, with Bryan saying, "We want to take a moment to toast the great Toby Keith. A great artist, a great American, and a great country music icon." This brief moment of tribute was met with a mixed response from the audience.

Country star Toby Keith passed away on Feb. 5 following a battle with stomach cancer. He was 62 years old. The crowd of A-list country stars, including Miranda Lambert and Cody Johnson, raised their glasses and plastic cups in a show of respect. Lainey Wilson also referenced some of Keith's other bar songs, such as "I Love This Bar," before introducing "A Bar Song" singer Shaboozey.

Fan Reactions on Social Media

Fans took to social media to express their displeasure with the show's tribute to Toby Keith. One X user wrote, "Lamest TK tribute ever!" Another simply said, "Weak." On TikTok, users in the comment section of a tribute video wrote, "Very disappointed Toby Keith deserved better." Another added, "He deserved more than a toast. Oh my god Toby Keith did a lot."

Despite the negative reactions, some fans defended the annual award show, citing that there was an hourslong tribute event at Nashville's Bridgestone Arena titled "Toby Keith: American Icon" earlier this year. This event was hosted by "You, Me, and Whiskey" singer Priscilla Block and included performances by Carrie Underwood and Eric Church.

Toby Keith's Musical Legacy

Toby Keith was a three-time CMA winner in 2014, 2017, and 2021 and was nominated for numerous Grammy Awards. His music has touched the hearts of many and has become an integral part of country music history. From hits like "Beer for My Horses" to "A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Action," his songs have resonated with fans around the world.

After his death, fans, celebrities, and military veterans revealed their tributes and heartache. His contributions to the country music genre will not be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.