Toby Keith Sings During Surprise Appearance One Year After Cancer Diagnosis

Toby Keith made a surprise appearance at Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse in Lexington, Kentucky, on November 4, 2022 and reportedly sang to patrons for nearly an hour.

The performance marks the first time Keith has done so publicly since he was diagnosed with stomach cancer in the fall of 2021. In June, Toby shared his diagnosis with fans and said that he had spent the previous six months undergoing chemotherapy, radiation and surgery.

“So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax,” Keith wrote. “I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later.”

 

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A post shared by Toby Keith (@tobykeith)

Shortly after posting the new to social media, all of Toby’s scheduled concerts were canceled.

Toby Keith’s appearance at Jeff Ruby’s was a welcome surprise to patrons who were treated to a mini concert from the country star.

Keith was in Lexington for the 2022 Breeder’s Cup race and stopped by the steakhouse where he shared the stage with Ruby.

ALL of the best people are in town for #breederscup2022 ! Excited to have @tobykeith on stage with Mr. Ruby Friday night at @JeffRuby in Lexington 🎶🎤 #BC2022 @kincaidndallas pic.twitter.com/82NqGYZJ31

— K 92.9 WVLK FM (@K929LEX) November 6, 2022

Those in attendance reported that Toby sang for more than an hour, and a video posted online shows the 61-year-old singing his 2003 hit, “I Love This Bar.”

See Toby see in the video below.

He loves this bar 🎶🎸 pic.twitter.com/S9cDPFFnOy

— Jeff Ruby (@TheRealJeffRuby) November 6, 2022

Toby Keith performed nearly all the way up until his February 5, 2024 death from a nearly three-year battle with stomach cancer.

His last performance came on December 14th in Las Vegas, where he played over 20 of his songs, including the poignant “Don’t Let The Old Man In,” which he wrote and recorded for the Clint Eastwood film The Mule.

RELATED: Toby Keith Performs “Don’t Let The Old Man In” For The Last Time On Stage

We will cherish these now precious moments of Toby Keith’s life. May he rest in peace.