At the first-ever People’s Choice Country Awards (September 28, 2023), country music icon Toby Keith makes an emotional comeback to the performance stage, wowing his wife, attendees, and viewers everywhere. Made me cry.
The 62-year-old famous “Should Have Been a Cowboy” singer graced the awards ceremony to not only commemorate his hit songs over the years, but also to honor the country music stalwart’s countless other accomplishments. His significant contribution to this genre is country icon award.
“You thought you’d never see me in skinny jeans,” Keith joked as he accepted the honor, which was presented to him by friend and fellow country singer Blake Shelton. The People’s Choice Country Awards mark Keith’s first public appearance on television since he bravely opened up about his battle with stomach cancer in June 2022.
After receiving the award, Keith graced the stage with a performance of his 2019 hit “Don’t Let the Old Man In.” The song now resonates as a hauntingly beautiful tribute to the music legend’s resilience in the face of life’s challenges. It serves as an eternal memory of his unique spirit.
“don’t let old people in
I want to live a little more like myself
I can’t leave it to him
he’s knocking on my door
and i knew all my life
I hope it will end someday
wake up and go outside
don’t let old people in
I’ve lived many moons
my body is weathered and worn
ask yourself how old do you want to be
If I didn’t know the day I was born
During the highly emotional performance, his wife Tricia Lucas was visibly moved and wiped away tears.
try to love your wife
and stay close to your friends
Toast with wine every sunset
don’t let old people in
Keith himself even got teary-eyed at one point, adding deep weight to the song’s message.
I’ve lived many moons
my body is weathered and worn
ask yourself how old do you want to be
If I didn’t know the day I was born
Looking back on the performance in 2023, this song now resonates with a moving beauty that will resonate in our memories as a mirror of Keith’s perseverance and fighting spirit in his battle with cancer.
when he rides a horse
and you feel that cold bitter wind
Look out the window and smile
don’t let old people in
Look out the window and smile
don’t let old people in”
Toby Keith passes away February 5, 2024 after a brave battle with stomach cancer.
Photo Credit: Toby Keith performing “Don’t Let the Old Man In” at the 2023 People’s Choice Country Awards | NBC’/NBC via YouTube/2/7/24 @9:30
Originally published on Senior Resources. Used with permission.
