At the first-ever People’s Choice Country Awards (September, 28 2023), country music icon Toby Keith graced the stage with a phenomenal performance where he left his wife, attendees and viewers everywhere in tears. The “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” singer hit the stage at the awards ceremony not only to commemorate his many years of hit songs but also to honor the countless other achievements made by other country music icons in the industry. Keith was recognized that evening with the Country Icon Award. His attendance and performance at the award’s show marked his first public appearance on television since he courageously revealed that he was battling stomach cancer in June 2022. “Bet you thought you’d never see me in skinny jeans,” Keith joked while accepting the honor presented by friend and fellow country singer Blake Shelton. After accepting the award, Keith performed his 2019 hit, “Don’t Let the Old Man In.” The song now holds a deeper meaning after Keith sadly passed away on February 5th, 2024 after a strong battle with cancer.