Toby Keith Biography: Discover Toby Keith’s biography, including his net worth, age, family life, songs, career journey, death, and wiki details. Learn about the country music star’s legacy and personal story.
Toby Keith was an American country music singer, songwriter, actor, and record producer who became one of the most influential figures in country music history. Known for his deep voice, patriotic songs, and powerful stage presence, Keith’s career spanned decades, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire fans worldwide.
This biography covers his net worth, age, family, career, death, songs, and wiki information.
Wiki Summary
| Full Name | Toby Keith Covel |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 8, 1961 |
| Place of Birth | Clinton, Oklahoma, USA |
| Date of Death | February 5, 2024 |
| Age at Death | 62 years |
| Wife | Tricia Lucus |
| Children | 3 (Shelley, Krystal, Stelen) |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Actor, Record Producer |
| Net Worth | $400 Million (approx.) |
| Years Active | 1993–2024 |
Early Life and Background
Toby Keith Covel, widely known as Toby Keith, was born on July 8, 1961, in Clinton, Oklahoma, USA. He grew up in Moore, Oklahoma, where he developed a passion for music at a young age. Inspired by the musicians he heard on the radio and encouraged by his family, Keith began learning the guitar and writing songs during his teenage years.
Age and Personal Life
At the time of his passing in 2024, Toby Keith was 62 years old. Despite his busy music career, he remained deeply connected to his roots and family, often expressing his values through his songs.
About Toby Keith Family
Toby Keith came from a tight-knit family and always credited them as his biggest supporters. He married Tricia Lucus in 1984, and together they raised three children: Shelley, Krystal, and Stelen. His daughter, Krystal Keith, followed in his footsteps and became a country music singer.
Toby Keith’s 3 Children: All About Shelley, Krystal and Stelen
Toby Keith was an iconic country star, but to his kids, he was first and foremost a loving, devoted father. The “Red Solo Cup” singer shared three children with his wife, Tricia Lucus — each of whom has grown up to carry forward his values of family, resilience, and hard work.
Keith adopted Tricia’s first daughter, Shelley, after their marriage in 1984, welcomed Krystal the following year, and then their son Stelen in 1997. Though Toby passed away on February 5, 2024, at the age of 62 after battling stomach cancer, his children continue to honor his legacy both publicly and privately.
In fact, before his passing, Toby expressed immense pride in how grounded and accomplished his kids had become, telling PEOPLE in 2010:
“Everybody in the family is good. I was raised by good parents and I have great kids. They don’t have any issues at all — none. They all grew up with me being successful, but they are not hooked on that part of the business.”
Here’s everything to know about Toby Keith’s three children — Shelley, Krystal, and Stelen.
Shelley Covel Rowland, 44
Born in 1980, Shelley was Tricia’s daughter from a previous relationship, and Toby lovingly adopted her after marrying Tricia in 1984. While she has largely chosen to stay out of the spotlight, Shelley has occasionally been seen at family events, including the SwingDish Launch Event in Las Vegas in 2015.
Shelley married and has a child of her own, making Toby a proud grandfather. In 2023, just months before his death, Toby was photographed celebrating Thanksgiving surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren — a testament to how much he cherished his family above all else.
Krystal Keith, 39
Toby and Tricia welcomed their daughter Krystal LaDawn Covel Sandubrae on September 30, 1985. Unlike her siblings, Krystal chose to use her father’s stage surname, Keith, as her professional name.
Following in her father’s footsteps, Krystal pursued a career in country music. She first gained recognition when she performed “Mockingbird” with her dad at the 38th Annual CMA Awards in 2004. In 2013, she released her debut album Whiskey & Lace, which included the emotional single “Daddy Dance with Me” — a song she wrote for her father-daughter dance at her wedding to Andrew Sandubrae.
Beyond music, Krystal is also a proud mother of two daughters, Kirby and Hensley, and often shares glimpses of their close-knit family life. After Toby’s passing, she posted a heartfelt tribute, writing:
“As great as he was in his career, he was so much greater as a dad and a husband and a Pop Pop. He was my hero.”
Krystal has said that she and her daughters keep Toby’s memory alive by listening to his music constantly, treating his songs as both a comfort and a reminder of his enduring presence.
Stelen Keith Covel, 28
Born on April 17, 1997, Stelen is Toby and Tricia’s only son and the youngest of their three children. Growing up, people often told him he was a reflection of his father, something he openly embraced.
After earning a degree in Entrepreneurship and Venture Management from the University of Oklahoma, Stelen pursued business rather than music. He is now a successful entrepreneur, co-owning several ventures including 405 Burger Bar, Hollywood Corners, Tequila Chulos, and the sports media outlet Sellout Crowd.
In November 2021, Stelen married Haley Covel in Las Vegas. His father’s cancer diagnosis was made public shortly after, and Stelen often shared messages of strength and faith during that period. After Toby’s passing, he wrote a moving tribute on Instagram, calling his dad “the strongest man I have ever known… a fighter, a true titan of your industry, my guiding star, my coach, my hero.”
In February 2025, Stelen and Haley announced they were expecting their first child, ensuring that Toby’s legacy of family love continues into the next generation.
Family Legacy
Toby Keith’s greatest legacy isn’t only found in his platinum records, sold-out tours, or accolades as one of country music’s most influential stars — it’s in the strong, grounded family he built with his wife of nearly four decades, Tricia Lucus.
Through their three children — Shelley, Krystal, and Stelen — and his grandchildren, Toby instilled the values of loyalty, faith, resilience, humility, and love for country. Each of them, in their own way, carries forward a piece of his spirit:
- Shelley, by protecting her family’s privacy and prioritizing motherhood.
- Krystal, by carrying the Keith name on stage and keeping his music alive for future generations.
- Stelen, by embracing entrepreneurship with grit and determination, just as his father did in carving out his music career.
Even in death, Toby’s presence remains a guiding light for his family. His songs are still sung around the dinner table, his life lessons are passed down to his grandchildren, and his deep love for family continues to shape the next generation.
For Toby Keith, success was never just about fame — it was about leaving behind a family foundation strong enough to outlast time, and in that, he more than succeeded.
Career in Music
Toby Keith’s career officially took off in 1993 with the release of his self-titled debut album, which included the hit single “Should’ve Been a Cowboy.” The song became one of the most-played country songs of the 1990s.
Over the years, Keith released more than 19 studio albums, two Christmas albums, and multiple compilations. He became known for hits such as:
- “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)”
- “Beer for My Horses” (with Willie Nelson)
- “As Good as I Once Was”
- “American Soldier”
His songs often reflected themes of patriotism, love, family, and the American lifestyle.
Death
Toby Keith passed away on February 5, 2024, after a courageous battle with stomach cancer, which he had publicly revealed in 2022. His death was mourned worldwide, with tributes pouring in from fans, fellow artists, and political leaders. He is remembered not only as a legendary musician but also as a symbol of American pride.
Net Worth
At the time of his death, Toby Keith’s net worth was estimated at around $400 million. His wealth came not only from his music sales and concerts but also from smart business ventures, including his “I Love This Bar & Grill” restaurant chain and his investments in the beverage industry.
Legacy and Achievements
Toby Keith’s influence on country music is undeniable. He earned multiple Country Music Association Awards, Academy of Country Music Awards, and American Music Awards. He was also honored with the BMI Icon Award for his songwriting contributions.
His music, businesses, and philanthropic efforts—particularly his work with military veterans and children’s charities—cemented his status as an American icon.
Conclusion
Toby Keith’s life was a blend of music, patriotism, family, and resilience. From his humble beginnings in Oklahoma to becoming a global country music superstar, his journey is a testament to hard work and authenticity. Even after his passing, his songs continue to echo in the hearts of millions, ensuring that his legacy will live on for generations.
FAQs About Toby Keith Biography
1. What was Toby Keith’s real name?
Toby Keith’s real name was Toby Keith Covel.
2. When did Toby Keith pass away?
He died on February 5, 2024, at the age of 62.
3. Who was Toby Keith’s wife?
He was married to Tricia Lucus since 1984.
4. What was Toby Keith’s net worth at death?
His net worth was approximately $400 million.
5. What are Toby Keith’s most famous songs?
Some of his greatest hits include “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” and “Beer for My Horses.”
