Toby Keith's Children Reflect on Keeping Their Emotions in Check During His CMT Awards Tribute (Exclusive)

The children of the late Toby Keith were prepared for a touching evening at the 2024 CMT Music Awards, where their father was recognized on Sunday, April 7.

Shelley Covel Rowland, Toby's oldest child, shared exclusively with We on the red carpet at the CMT Awards in Austin, "It means a lot. It's our first big public appearance, so it's a mix of emotions. We're trying to hold back tears as we navigate through this line of cameras."

Shelley, 44, arrived at the Moody Center with her sister Krystal Keith and brother Stelen Keith Covel. They walked the red carpet before a star-studded lineup, including Lainey Wilson, Brooks & Dunn, and Sammy Hagar, gathered on stage to honor Toby, who passed away in February at the age of 62 after a battle with stomach cancer.

Krystal, 38, expressed their emotions, saying, “This is an award show that we attended frequently with him. This is the first time we are here without him, but we feel his presence as he is being honored. We are looking forward to hearing his music, even though he is not the one performing. We are grateful that Brooks & Dunn, Sammy, and Lainey are here to pay tribute to him in this special way. We are truly excited.”

Krystal Keith, Shelley Covel Rowland and Stelen Keith Covel

Krystal Keith, Shelley Covel Rowland and Stelen Keith Covel Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for CMT

Stelen had a brief chat with the performers before the show, but their focus was not on the performance. Instead, they shared memories of Toby. Stelen mentioned, "I talked to them about what Toby meant to them and vice versa. I shared the same sentiments, and we are thrilled to be here to support them during their performance."

Krystal mentioned that hearing about the impact their father had on people has been overwhelming for them in the months following his passing.

"He was not just an amazing artist and songwriter, but he also had a massive fan following. What truly surprised us was the overwhelming support and love from both the community and the music industry," she shared. "People we've known for years and even those we've never met reached out to share stories of how he impacted their lives. This really shows the kind of person he was, not just to the industry, but to the entire country music family and everyone in this industry."

Toby Keiths Family Say They Were Doing Our Best to Keep the Tears In at His CMT Awards Tribute

Retired athlete Roger Clemens expressed his desire to pay tribute to Toby Keith's family when he performed on stage. He mentioned, “I’m going to try and recognize them too … [I’m] just trying to stay upbeat.” Clemens, 76, shared with Us on the red carpet, “We miss him.”

Clemens wrapped up the tribute by acknowledging the kids and mom Tricia Lucus. Tricia had been married to Toby for almost 40 years. Holding back tears, Clemens expressed gratitude, saying, "Thanks for letting us share your dad. Tricia, we love you. Thank you for sharing your husband with the world, Tricia. Thank you."

Editor's P/S:

The CMT Music Awards provided a poignant platform for Toby Keith's children to honor their late father. Amidst the glitz and glamour of the red carpet, Shelley, Krystal, and Stelen shared their emotions, a mix of grief and gratitude. Their presence served as a testament to the enduring legacy of their beloved father, whose music and spirit continue to resonate with countless fans.

The tribute to Toby Keith was a fitting recognition of his significant contributions to country music. The performances by Brooks & Dunn, Sammy Hagar, and Lainey Wilson were heartfelt and evocative, capturing the essence of his artistry and his profound impact on the industry. The words of Roger Clemens, who acknowledged the family's presence and expressed his admiration for Toby, highlighted the deep respect and affection held for him within the music community. Through this tribute, Toby Keith's legacy as a cherished artist and a beloved father was celebrated, leaving an enduring mark on the hearts of all who knew him.