On February 5, 2024, Toby Keith – the country star whose songs about patriotism and blue-collar values made him one of the most successful musicians of all time – died of stomach cancer. Keith was an exceptionally talented singer and songwriter, but perhaps his greatest gifts were his intelligence and his authenticity, which gave him unique perspectives on war, politics, and friendships, and the ability to change minds and challenge stereotypes.

Introduction: Toby Keith, the country music icon who passed away on February 5th, 2024, after a battle with stomach cancer, was a complex figure whose career spanned decades and defied…