The Oak Ridge Boys are speaking out about the passing of Toby Keith. The Country Music Hall of Fame members praised Keith, revealing they had been praying for his health.
“Toby Keith has gone home … ” The Oak Ridge Boys posted on social media. “This is very sad news … We loved and respected him on every level and whispered many a prayer for him as he fought this illness. God must have needed a big hearted Oklahoma singing boy for the great choir. Well, he got one.”
Toby Keith has gone home … This is very sad news … We loved and respected him on every level and whispered many a prayer for him as he fought this illness. God must have needed a big hearted Oklahoma singing boy for the great choir. Well, he got one #RIPTobyKeith pic.twitter.com/cBjybvnxwP
— The Oak Ridge Boys (@oakridgeboys) February 6, 2024
Joe Bonsall also spoke out about the loss of Keith on social media as well.
“I am incredibly saddened at the loss of Toby Keith,” Bonsall wrote. “He battled hard and I thought he was doing better and even hitting the road again. I guess God had other plans for him. Rest Easy Toby … You were a great talent who in my opinion never received the accolades you deserved!”
The Oak Ridge Boys have not been immune to their own physical challenges. Bonsall recently retired from touring, with Ben James filling Bonsall’s spot on their American Made: Farewell Tour.
“Many of you know I have been battling a slow onset (over four years now) of a neuromuscular disorder,” Bonsall explained. “I am now at a point where walking is impossible, so I have basically retired from the road. It has just gotten too difficult. It has been a great 50 years, and I am thankful to all the Oak Ridge Boys, band, crew, and staff for the constant love and support shown to me through it all.
“I will never forget, and for those of you who have been constantly holding me up in prayer, I thank you and ask for you to keep on praying,” he added.
Bonsall later revealed he would not be recording songs for The Oak Ridge Boys’ next album either.
“Many are asking but no man …” Bonsall said. “I am not singing on this … they invited me to sing a bit but I was just not up to it … Ben has me covered and the sessions are going well …”
Keith passed away on February 5. He had been battling stomach cancer since 2021, going public with the news in 2022. He said at the end of 2023 that he hoped to tour in 2024. Funeral services are pending.
All of The Oak Ridge Boys’ remaining shows can be found at OakRidgeBoys.com.
