Toby Keith | Superstar Power Hour

As Toby Keith enters his third year fighting stomach cancer, the “Big Dog Daddy” isn’t letting his diagnosis keep him from what he loves most — music. After taking two years to focus on his recovery, Keith returned to the stage for three sold-out shows at Park MGM’s Dolby Live in Las Vegas earlier this month. The shows marked his first “tour dates” following his diagnosis. As he brings the focus back to his music, it’s clear the 62-year-old’s battle has brought new perspective to his life as he spotlights songs like his newest single, “Don’t Let The Old Man In.” Following his diagnosis, Keith has found new meaning in the song that he originally wrote in 2018 after being inspired by the legendary Clint Eastwood and his zest for life at the age of 88. “I’m Clint Eastwood’s partner at his gold tournament —he’s 93 this year, by the way,” Keith shared during his time on the Superstar Power Hour with Katie Neal before telling the story of the inspiration behind the song. “Several years ago at the first event I played with him… I [asked], ‘What keeps you going at your age?’ He said, ‘I try to get up every day and be productive — not let that old man in.’” He continued, “So I came home and said, ‘I’m going to write him a song.’  I didn’t know I was going to have to live those words in a few years.” It’s only fitting that Keith performed the song to mark his first return to the stage at the People’s Choice Country Awards in September. Not only did he steal the show with his tear-jerking performance, he was also honored with the night’s Country Icon Award. “I bet you all never thought you’d see me in skinny jeans,” Keith joked while addressing his thinner appearance due to his treatments as he accepted his award. “I want to thank the almighty for allowing me to be here tonight, he’s been riding shotgun with me for a little while,” he continued before recognizing others. While Keith has kept detailed updates surrounding his health limited, he shared with Audacy’s Katie Neal he feels he’s “turning a corner” with the new year. “I’m doing really good. It’s been a tough two years, but I think I’m turning a corner,” he shared. “I don’t know if you’re ever done with it [cancer], but I’m trying to be.” Hear more from Keith about the new single, his health and the 30 year anniversary of “Should’ve Been A Cowboy,” by checking out his full conversation on the Superstar Power Hour with Katie Neal above. Words by Monica Rivera Interview by Katie Neal