After having our fun with Toby Keith, I decided to let his fans have theirs. On June 17, I invited his fans to explain why they love Toby Keith. If we can dish it out, we can take it.
Since Independence Day is the most patriotic holiday of the year, and it’s a three-day weekend, I’ve given them the whole weekend.
Below, is the first batch of letters.
Letter #1
First of all because of all the wonderful things he does. He is a great humanitarian. He started Ally’s House to help the children in Oklahoma who have cancer. It is a place for them and their parents to stay and not worry about money or anything. He entertains the troops in the HOT ZONEs every year for 2 weeks. He also does things for Salvation Army and St. Judes. He is a family man, has been happily married for 24 years and has 3 wonderful children. He also stands up for what he believes in and doesn’t care what other people think. He is one of the hardest working country artists out there and had to fight his way to get where he is. He has his own Label so he doesn’t have to answer to all the people that don’t believe in him and he has done a GREAT job doing it. He knows what his fans like and he gives it to them. He has an AWESOME voice, puts on a FANTASTIC show and knows how to have fun. Also he is so easy on the eyes.
I don’t care if people don’t like his music but they don’t even know the man so how they can tell lies like they do. They need to listen to him talk and watch his interviews but there is no reason to be so hateful of anyone. There are artists that I don’t like that can’t hold a flame to Toby and I don’t bash him like you do Toby.
Thank you for this,
TOBYBEAR (Jean)
Letter #2
There have been times when I have been asked why I am such a Toby Keith fan. I don’t think any of Toby’s Warriors can put into words all the reasons we are fans; our reasons are as varied as we are. I guess the best place to start is where Toby always starts—he says he’s a songwriter, in my opinion, a very talented one. He can paint a picture with his words. Most fans will tell you, it was Toby’s voice that first attracted them to him. It’s strong, it’s clear, and it’s unique, which probably explains why you either love him or you don’t. But these talents are only the beginning. What make some of us Warriors is we started learning more about the man—Toby Keith Covel, and we found that as awesome an entertainer as he is, more importantly he is a kind, caring human being, something some people find difficult to square with his on-stage persona and his songs.
Toby’s support of and dedication to our military receives publicity and comment, but still I don’t think the average music fan realizes that Toby goes on USO tours every year (just completing his sixth tour, with over 120 shows). And Toby goes places he would never ask other entertainers to go—he goes out to the small Forward Operating Bases where the service people assigned have seen no one from the outside the base in over a year. And he does this at no cost to the USO.
Another cause very dear to Toby is Ally’s House, a children’s charity he founded to help Oklahoma children suffering with cancer and their families. Ally’s House provides financial help to families facing a devastating situation. They also provide medical treatment. Toby just recently hosted the 5th Annual Ally’s House Auction and Golf Tournament that raised $709,000. I would say this speaks volumes about what people think about Toby and what he stands for.
Toby is always an outspoken advocate for his home state of Oklahoma, whether it’s supporting his OU sports teams, helping to stimulate the local economy, or supporting political cause he feels are important.
As much as people like to portray Toby as a loud, brash redneck, what we seem to learn from those who actually do spend time with Toby is he is quiet, intelligent, and always supportive of those who have been loyal to him through the years. The fact that his manager, members of his band, and his stage crew have been with him for years says to me there is something special about Toby Keith, something even more special than those of us who call ourselves Warriors can ever know.
Ruth
Letter #3
I didn’t grow up on country music. In fact I grew up on my parents’ big band music/ Frank Sinatra/ Tony Bennett. When I was old enough to take control of the radio at home WIXY 1260 AM was the station of choice in Cleveland, OH. I was the easy listening then turned Rock/Roll gal. I did however, have a short stint of country in me and listened to Kenny Rogers and Alabama. Then back to Rock/Roll. It wasn’t until moving about the country due to the military that I found myself in small towns with not many radio stations that came in clear enough. Country stations seemed to come in the best. I enjoyed hearing alot of the music/artists. Toby’s music seemed to shine.
I consider myself a loyal Warrior of Toby’s. Why do I love Toby, where do I begin?
Yes, let me state the obvious he is tall, very well built and has a smile that could melt an iceburg.
I am drawn to his deep voice and how he carries notes and lyrics out. He is a COUNTRY artist and the songs he writes are about his values(ie: putting family first; My List, Stelen’s song) and experiences that he had in his life (ie: Boomtown; Honkytonk U) in Oklahoma.
Now lets get to the womanizing, beer drinking songs that everyone seems to criticize him about. I ask you and your non Toby loving fans, What is wrong w/ getting drunk and being somebody? or even cheating? and having one nightstands? Country singers aren’t the only ones that sing these songs. Let’s compare some song’s.
Foreigner’s JUKE BOX HERO, song about a man who dreams of being on stage singing/playing in front of fans and being at the TOP. QUEEN’S I want to break free song about a man breaking free of a relationship..yes, this is between lovers..but could still apply.
The Coasters SMOKEY JOE’S CAFE, song about going down to a honkytonk in Mexico and trying to get some action. The Coaster’s POISON IVY again song about hitting the bar and hooking up.
Bruce Springsteen’s MY HOMETOWN AND GLORY DAYS songs about life he had in Jersey (for which he is proud to be from Jersey). Eminem’s 8 MILE a song about how he survived the streets of Detroit and made it as a rapper. Will Smith’s FRESH PRINCE OF BELAIR song about a boy growing up in the streets of Philly and moving in with family to have a better life.
Elton John’s SATURDAY NIGHTS ALRIGHT FOR FIGHTS song about drinking and fighting.
Cheap Trick’s SHE TIGHT (which was composed by Rick Neilsen) song about a man talking about how good looking/hot a woman is and how he is getting down with her.
Eagle’s HOTEL CALIFORNIA engaging in wine and other delightful stuff and going to another place. Beatles MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR taking a drug induced tour.
Bruce Springteen’s BORN IN THE U.S.A. and Neil Diamond’s AMERICA. Here these two singers sing about what a great place the U S is and their pride in their country.
Now with comparing some song’s from other genre’s to his ”country” songs. If you were to give Toby the lyrics to songs by Queen, Eminem, Billy Joel, Van Halen, U2, Matchbox 20, even gospel, he would be able to sing them. The difference between a GREAT artist and a mediocre one is the adaptability to sing in other genres of music. I believe that Toby can do this.
Other aspects of Toby that us Warriors love is his compassion(Ally’s house charity), his love for his country, his support for our troops with out getting into politics.(USO tours).
I believe this is all I have to say for now.
Thanks…Robin Essler (cggal) from RI to OR.
Letter #4
Toby is very misunderstood. What first drew me in was his baritone voice…so strong and captivating. He worked EXTREMELY hard to make it in Nashville. They wanted him to change his image, but he wanted to do it his way. Now that he has his own record label, he finally CAN! Doing it his way has made him successful …he’s even been honored with the likes of Elton John and the Beatles! He does not beg for nominations of any kind. You either like him or you don’t and that’s ok with him! This strong determination is yet another reason why I admire him.
He is, first and foremost, a family man! He’s been married to his wife for 24 years, and has 3 children. He even coaches his son’s football team, in between his concerts!! He keeps them out of the limelight, and keeps his family life private!
He is extremely dedicated to his hometown, and still resides in Oklahoma, where he grew up! He even started Ally’s House, which is a place for children with cancer in Oklahoma! His annual golf tournament for the cause just raised $709,000.00!!! His fans always keep Ally’s House in mind when they have gift card collections at the concerts, and they make other donations throughout the year!!
His dedication to the troops astounds me! He goes on USO tours every year, and plays, for FREE to all of the men and women who wear our country’s uniform! He is well respected by the troops, and rightfully so! He puts his life in danger by going where no other performer will dare to go! He mentions the troops quite frequently during his concerts, and even brings them on stage for the encore if they are in the audience! He gets tagged as a very political person, but actually he is NOT a political guy…to him there is no right or left, there’s right or wrong! He’s not for the war, he’s for the TROOPS!
He is a singer, songwriter, chain restaurant owner, he raises horses, and he just finished his second movie! He NEVER stops!
I think his stage persona is what most people see of him. On stage, he is the rowdy, beer drinking, rebel…but off stage he is quite different. I have met him, outside of his realm (his concerts), and he is actually very quiet and extremely generous with his time! Now, don’t get me wrong, he puts on one hell of a show…he’s the BEST performer I’ve seen…that’s what keeps me coming back!
Hey, I know he is not perfect, but I think he gets a bad rap most of the time. His fans LOVE him, and those who dislike him have their reasons. But I think if more people knew a little more about him, they’d change their opinion!!
Thanks for this opportunity!
A loyal TK fan
Letter #5
Where to start is a difficult one because it covers such a vast amount of reasons.
I have been a Fan of Toby Keith’s for a long time, but when I actually got to see the Real Toby, (not in the concert sense, but in a real caring human being.) I became a Supporter more than just a Fan.
So I guess I will start with the factor of Toby being such a kind, caring person, I saw proof of this with my own eyes in 2005 when Toby took a little boy by the name Trevor Scott up on stage at the Cleveland, Ohio (Blossom concert).
This young man sang American Soldier with Toby on stage, it was his wish by the Make A Wish Foundation. Toby treated this young man like royalty. He let Trevor be the star of the show with a little help from him. The young man was so happy to have a wish fulfilled but even more, Toby was genuinely happy to fulfill it. It wasn’t just for show, it was true caring on Toby’s part.
Of the 30,000 people that were there, there was barely a dry eye in the place. .
You can see the video on youtube but it in no way does justice to seeing it live and to watch Toby truly interact with this young man. Words could never express the emotions it evoked from me.
If I ever had a child in this situation and their wish would be to meet someone famous, I sure hope it would be someone who is as honest, sincere, and caring as Toby Keith himself truly is.
Toby also does things for others that most of us never ever here of. A couple of things that he does do, that Toby’s FULL support of the Troops.
Toby is always made to look like a left wing, right wing, political scapegoat. That couldn’t be further form the TRUTH. He exercises his Freedom to Vote as we all should but he doesn’t hawk politics.
Toby stands on his beliefs that we all should support the Troops, which is exactly what he does. He being one of the very few who puts his Money where his mouth is. Toby goes to FOB’S and dangerous places where other entertainers wouldn’t dream of going. He shows his Support and Respect he has for the troops. They in return Appreciate and Respect Toby for what he does for them.
The expenses for this are all paid by Toby, not by the USO or from taxpayers pockets. He uses his own resources because he has been Blessed with Grace enough to do so.
Another very important thing to Toby is Ally’s House. Toby started Ally’s House after the namesake of a child of one of his band members who died of Cancer. He has since, with the help of kind, caring, considerate people, such as himself
continued to raise money to keep Ally’s House going for other Oklahoma children and their families , so that they can spend time with each other during some of the most difficult , harrowing times of their of their lives. Things that people like me may never know about unless in that situation, Thank God people like him who can make a difference, will try to help all those who can’t always have a way to help themselves.
That was the most important, now on to the least important reasons.
I have the utmost RESPECT for Toby as an entertainer. When you see Toby, you see the real deal. He stands up for what he believes in, he has built his own career, he choose it whether he stand or fall, but did it his way.
For years the recording labels and the industry have overlooked Toby. He doesn’t bow to their ways of doing things. He has been shunned for so many Awards that should have rightfully been his. But he never gave up, he has always held his head up and continued with pride. He is a singer / songwriter. One of the best in the business today.
As for the Angry American image Toby has been labeled with. I think that after 9/11 there were lots of Angry Americans some just wouldn’t say it like Toby had the courage to do. Sure everyone was sad but there were lots of us that were very angry also.
I could go on and on but I’ll end by saying this. Some may see Toby Keith as the Angry American, I see Toby Keith, as a Great asset to his fan base, the people whom he helps, and just an all around good person.
Brenda ( tksbabygirl )
Letter #6
When I first heard him sing I was hooked. When you can write and sing like he does, that is talent. He can take you right into the song. He makes you feel like he wrote that song for you and he is singing it to you. When you are at his concerts you never sit. Its the best time ever. I think its really hard to put into words just how great he really is, but I know if I could only pick one concert to go to that would be the one I would pick. You never leave feeling let down. He gives his all to his fans. But that isn’t the only thing about Toby, He is a real person with a big heart. He cares for his country and our troops. Toby just completed his sixth tour with the USO. He also founded a children’s charity called Ally’s House. It helps Oklahoma children suffering with cancer. Toby recently hosted the 5th Annual Ally’s House Auction and Golf Tournament raising $709,000.
Which says alot about the man. I know as a warrior fan I am very proud of him. God Bless you Toby. Happy 4th.
Karen
Letter #7
I have been a “Warrior” for 3 years now and I have the utmost respect for Toby Keith. He is a true humanitarian. However, you would never know that because he doesn’t publicize his accomplishments. He is a very talented songwriter and has the most powerful voice. I am not sure what that critics see because it surely is different from what his fan base sees. He probably is the most overlooked and underrated country singer, yet he continues to draw fans, sell albums, does his charity work relentlessly and has the courage to write a script and make a movie, that includes the soundtrack. He is a faithful husband and father who very much loves his family. He really has my respect for all he stands for; his tender heart towards children and his love and support of the military. Before any of the critics write one single word regarding Toby, his shows and just who he is, I would recommend that each one of you sit and have a visit with him, you just might be surprised as to what you may see.
Sincerely,
Anna Gilbert
July 4, 2008 at 9:15 am |
I guess the best thing about Toby is that he does what he does because he wants to and isn’t bothered by those who dish out contrary views . . . I adore the man and am proud of these fan club members who wrote the letters. His support of our troops is most often not published — which seems fine with him — he does it for the right reason! And, I am proud of you, Mr. Irritated Tulsan for following through and publishing the thoughts and words! Happy 4th of July to you!
July 4, 2008 at 9:21 am |
I think Toby is treated so unfair, the man is what he is and that is honest, a man who cares deeply for his family and sticks to his values. I have always liked Toby’s music but became a warrior fan about 4 years ago, I am so amazed at all Toby does for our military like going overseas every year to give them a little back for all they do for us, and as for Alleys House he has built that up so much that every child that comes their always get the treatment they need. He take his bashing from the award shows and the media but he always keeps his head held high. He sticks to what he believes in and that how it is. He gives alot and never asks for anything in return. At his concerts he makes you feel like you are the only one he is entertaining, his concerts are top notch and I never feel like my money was wasted instead it was well spent.
I guess to sum it all up Toby is HONEST, SINCERE, LOVING, CARING,and most of all TOBY IS HIMSELF AND NOT ANYONES PUPPET.
Cindy tkkentuckyfan
July 4, 2008 at 9:47 am |
wow.
I wonder if Toby Keith can give me eternal life.
I think maybe he can after reading all this … umm…. idol worship?
July 4, 2008 at 10:27 am |
Thank you for following through with your promise to do this! I am enjoying reading these letters and, of course, agreeing with them!
To meeciteewurkor: Why does it have to be considered idol worship to love and appreciate another person for the great things he has done with his life, and the pleasure he has brought to ours? I have no delusion that he is anything other than human, but have great admiration for the man he has chosen to be.
July 4, 2008 at 10:36 am |
I’m another Warrior who agrees with everything that’s been said. Like others, I was originally attracted by “the voice”, and the fact that he writes so many of his own songs. The man’s many talents cannot be denied! And I love Robin’s description of his “smile that could melt icebergs”. I guess I really became a true fan when I realized that Toby is a man of integrity, good moral character and strong family values. Please note too, that it isn’t Toby who calls attention to his charitable acts and devotion to the troops. I was lucky enough to attend his concert last Sat. in Tampa. When he was singing “American Soldier” a Warrior held up a poster honoring a fallen serviceman. Toby reached for it, and held it up on the stage. He was genuinely moved. The man is sincere, extremely intelligent and well informed. He’s also a very hard worker and the most Awesome performer. He gives his best to everything he does. Thank you for letting us have our say! Happy 4th to you!
July 4, 2008 at 11:23 am |
Why I love Toby Keith.
Probably wouldn’t have enough time to say everything I feel. Toby is a very special man. He is very caring. His warriors absolutely love him. He does so much for so many. Just look at the way he supports our troops. He takes at least around 17 day every year and dedicates that to our troops. He goes on his USO tour no matter what, he knows the danger he can be in, but it means so much to him. Nobody tells him to do this, he does it out of love, and to see the joy and happiness it puts on our men and women in uniform makes me love him even more. He is very dedicated to his home state, Oklahoma. He established Ally’s House, which is a place for Oklahoma children with cancer. Every year he throws a charity event to help Ally’s House, This year alone he raised $709,000. That is amazing. His heart goes out to the children. It means alot to Toby. Toby is a great entertainer. His concerts are out of this world. He throughly enjoys being on stage and making his fans happy. He’s a world class entertainer. He brings joy to so many people. He now is entertaining us by doing movies. Does he ever stop? Maybe you should stop and and take a real good look into what Toby does. If you do that you might see what thousands of warriors see.Toby is a very genuin man. A great family man. Toby is the Big Dog Daddy !!!
Carolyn (tobys4me)
July 4, 2008 at 11:34 am |
I am proud to be a fan of Toby’s. His music inspires me, his dedication to the troops is amazing, particularly when it would be easy to do otherwise. His committment to what he holds true is unusual in today’s world.
Way to go Toby – thank
July 4, 2008 at 12:03 pm |
I am Proud to be a Toby Keith Warrior and has been since I first heard him back in 93.
I’ve followed his music through the years and will continue doing so. Though I’ve not been to a concert – though I’ve seen him at the Thank you Memorial in April 2005 and when he was inducted in 2005 in Muskogee, enough to get the blood pumping.
The man rocks, what can I say.. Do I need to say more ?
TK Fan forever
OUCloud
Oklahoma City
July 4, 2008 at 12:28 pm |
** vomit **
I think I’m going to go puke in my work boots and then walk around in them all day long…
TK doesn’t give a rat’s ass about you people. He only wants the money that you so willingly toss at him…
July 4, 2008 at 12:49 pm |
It is not just about Toby, it is about us. Yes we can sit around and complain, or we can support a man who goes out to entertain OUR troops. You know, the ones who volunteered to enter service to our country. We choose to support a man who saw suffering in little children and has devoted his energy and rallied others to help these families. We choose to support a talent who can tell the stories of our lives with humor and love through music. He is us. And we appreciate it.
July 4, 2008 at 12:51 pm |
PS to the complainer-
You may want to seek profeesional care for you ailment.
July 4, 2008 at 1:01 pm |
This was uncalled for! I have been a Toby Keith fan for about ten years. My first encounter with the video “Getcha Some” had me a little bit intrigued. As I pursued this person, and found what an all around talented writer he was, the more I wanted to know. The wonderful things he does for so many people, a lot of which we never even hear about, only makes me admire him more. Aly’s House is just one thing that shows his love and care for others! The troops he entertains every year are so appreciative, and what he did for little Trevor makes everyone cry when they see it! His music is fantastic, and gives warm fuzzies to many Warriors! I think he is a very smart business man, and has many irons in the fire. His acting career is going to be something we are all supportive of, because this is something he wants to do! We are all loyal fans, and “Better Angels” for our Toby!
July 4, 2008 at 3:16 pm |
wow.. again.
I’m beginning to believe that TK is a lot like David Koresh. In fact, this is starting to smack of the anti-christ.
You poor disciples watch out. If TK starts offering you all fruit punch in large snake skin boots…..
Well, actually… go ahead and drink…
freaks…
July 4, 2008 at 4:11 pm |
Have you ever seen Toby perform, or listened to his music? BTW – you mixed up your anti-christs. It was Jim Jones who had his followers drink kool aid. Seems like you’ve got a lot of facts wrong. That could ’splain a lot. What ever happened to: “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all!”
July 4, 2008 at 4:28 pm |
meeciteewurkor So, what city do you work for?
Hey, lighten up. Don’t really understand what you are so angry at. And from what I understand Patron is the drink of choice, then again some like a good domestic beer. Did I mention some even like foreign beers? I know a bunch enjoy a glass of wine at dinner, and oh, there are those that like mixed drinks. Got any of those cute umbrellas around?
Wow.. is right. I guess we are our own people, just very principled. I”l drink to that any day.
July 4, 2008 at 4:54 pm |
This is to Brenda with post #5. I never thought anyone should sing “American Soldier” other than Toby. After you mentioned Trevor Scott. who told Make A Wish foundation, that he wanted to sing that song with Toby and that it was on Youtube, I went and watched it. I knew nothing about it before. Toby didn’t stand, towering over him, he knelt down beside him. He let Trevor sing almost the whole song by himself and did a good job of it. I watched Toby’s face, every now and then a smile. At the end, made a comment to Trevor about making him proud.
These are things some people never see. The don’t see him for the man he truly is. I guess that’s why I, like so many admire him so much. He’s not God.He’s just a man and a mighty good one at that. You, with all your slams to him, go look at the video. m Maybe you will see him for the man he really is. I know he made a little boy very happy. Bless you Toby for all the good things you do. Patti
July 4, 2008 at 5:06 pm |
meeciteewurkor,
In reply to this statement :
I’m beginning to believe that TK is a lot like David Koresh. In fact, this is starting to smack of the anti-christ.
You poor disciples watch out. If TK starts offering you all fruit punch in large snake skin boots…..
Well, actually… go ahead and drink…
freaks…
I only have this to say to you , Toby is by far anything from the Anti- Christ ( actually in all reality I don’t think you even know of what you are speaking about) he is a kind ,God fearing, caring person. This is not the ways of an anti- christ.
We don’t follow him around waiting for or begging for crumbs from his table or a drop of wine from his gobblet. But what we do is appreciate him for being (one)among thousands of entertainers who are willing to use his good graces given from God to help others , not hoard it .
So you may want tho check you version of the meaning anti-christ because the one I know wouldn’t even bother with these kind of things.
If you knew anything at all about the man , you would know he doesn’t go around bragging on himself or making himself look like he is God. He is totally the opposite of this.
You can give honor where honor is due without it being and idol of any kind .
You seem to want to drag Religion into this , well if that’s the case the very least you could do is know what you are talking about before you try and do it.
And to Mr. Irritated Tulsan , I will add my Thank You with the rest of the Warriors here for keeping to your word and giving us our chance to let people know the real Toby Keith.
July 4, 2008 at 5:10 pm |
Toby Keith is an American. He has withstood criticism, obstacles, and not being recognized by his peers. And has risen heads and shoulders above them all. Toby supports our troops overseas, when most wouldn’t endanger themselves. He raises money for children with cancer and their families who desperately need it. I am happy that he getting to do what he loves and is paid well for his business sense and talent. That is what America was built upon.
He makes his own decisions and doesn’t waiver in his beliefs. His talent and work ethic are unmatched by anyone. He has a fabulous voice and a smile that is genuine. But what I truly admire is that he still lives in Oklahoma, is dedicated to his family who stayed by his side and he loves America. He loves our United States! We should all have that love and thankfulness! What a great country, the best in the world. We are all truly blessed!!!!
That is what I love about Toby Keith Covel.
Susansgg (Susan)
July 4, 2008 at 5:35 pm |
meecitteewurkor=
Silly me, you are from Tulsa. You actually have a good sense of humor. Question
to you: Are you really that upset or just looking for the proverbial dander?
July 4, 2008 at 6:57 pm |
I, like everyone who has posted here, heard my first song from Toby and wondered “who is this guy”. I had not seen a picture of him nor read about him. I simply liked his music. I continued listening to him and realized that here was true talent in more than one form – song writing and singing. Again, like most the people here, I was interested in the man and looked for information about him, still not seeing many photos of him. Of course, when I finally saw a real picture of him did not hurt my feeling at all!
Let’s forget about his Warriors (I am one and it’s hard to do, believe me!). There are so many people, outside of his fan base, that admire and like him. From an Oklahoma University football coach to a four-star general, from little kids to older people. He can pick up a phone and call famous people in the sports world. country music, etc to come and help him raise money for Ally’s House. He raised, with help, over $750,000
this year. I have heard that he has written a special song for a soldier’s funeral. He goes to the war zone every year. This man has no bounderies when helping others. He loves his country and makes no apology for it.
He is outspoken about what he believes in and, why not? Many of the people (Hollywood) who are putting him down about his politics are doing the same thing and notbody calls them names.
Toby Keith is another person from Toby Keith Covel. One is an entertainer and the other is a family man! He sings with his daughter at a CMA Awards and the father in him is so proud that you can almost touch it. He tours four days a week for approximately 60 shows and goes home for the other three days of each week. He coaches his 12-year-old sons’ football team. He makes a certain amount of time for him and his family alone and he does not waiver from leaving them. He makes no bones about loving his wife.
There is another video where Toby is singing “American Soldier” and he sees a little girl, about 8, holding up a sign in the audience. He motions for her to come up on stage. She is crying her heart out while holding a sign that says her father died in Iraq and gives his name and the day he died. Toby backed off from her and let her have the stage for a good minutes or two and you could see him in the background trying not to get emotional but he was losing the battle. This is the Toby Keith we Warriors love! A man who has the compassion to let two children come on his stage and take the spotlight! This is Toby Keith!
July 4, 2008 at 10:32 pm |
I like cheesecake.
July 4, 2008 at 10:46 pm |
Ok, I’ll go into my happy, inclusive, I love everybody mode and attempt to learn about this culture I’ve become curious about now…
First off, what is a Warrior?
I bet 99% of you warriors are beer-gut hanging, non-shaven, whisky-smellin’, Ford-drivin’ … oops.. sorry.. I forgot.. happy mode…
July 4, 2008 at 11:08 pm |
Sorry, you’re wrong. I drive a Chevy, don’t drink, don’t have a beer gut. Then only things I shave are my legs and under my arms.
A Warrior is a person who stands up for themselves, their family, their friends, for our troops and our country. We also stand up for Toby.
July 5, 2008 at 12:10 am |
WRONG, meeciteewurkor!!!! This Warrior is a retired teacher holding a Masters Degree……and proud to be a Toby fan!
July 5, 2008 at 12:12 am |
Warriors are what the fan club members are called. Most fan clubs have a name for the members.
No, I don’t have a beer gut, I do shave my legs and pits, don’t drink whiskey, do drive a Ford (a Windstar).
July 5, 2008 at 12:23 am |
Gee meeciteewurkor….beer gut hanging, non-shaven….etc. etc.? How about teachers, nurses, attorneys, master’s degrees, military honors, Ford driving Warriors…..now what are your qualifications??
July 5, 2008 at 1:57 am |
I sent in a letter to support Toby, but I wanted to add to these responses. I have just recently become a Warrior and I gotta tell you I have never met such a supportive group of fans. When you have a fan base like Toby does, it usually means something is being done right. Toby does do everything right. For someone that has never followed country music, this man has blown me away. I went to my first Toby concert in Tampa, FL and I was blown away by his performance and his interaction with his fans. Never have I experienced so much love being shared through songs and emotions. His dedication to the troops is just amazing. He is a wonderful human being and he certainly misunderstood. The more I learn about him the more I love him. And let’s face it, he is SMOKIN HOT. No one can top this man’s sex appeal. When he sings, he sings to you. For those that think we are crazy to have such admiration for Toby Keith, take some time to learn about him and listen..I mean really listen to his music. Not all of it are bar songs.
We love you Toby.
Forever your fan.
July 5, 2008 at 8:03 am |
I’ve been a Toby Keith fan after hearing Should Have Been a Cowboy.I respect any person who can write,record,& produce his/her own music.
His songs are about life,love and yes there are partying fun songs too.
He supports our troops.He’s a family oriented man.
He’s the full package.
July 5, 2008 at 8:07 am |
Sorry meathead but I don’t drink, or smoke and don’t have a beer gut. I just like Toby and his music and the many wonderful friends I have made. I don’t idolize him. He is a happily married man of 24 years with 3 children. As far as the money goes….He works hard for it, not just entertaining. He also gives back a lot of it and goes overseas for the troops which HE PAYS FOR.
He’s not perfect only God is perfect and Toby is FAR FROM GOD.
July 5, 2008 at 8:15 am |
Hey wurkor –
Cheesecake, huh?
Funny thing is, I think you would enjoy hanging with us.
On the whiskey thing, did you mean we smell like whiskey, or we like to smell whiskey?
July 5, 2008 at 4:56 pm |
Meetcitiwurkor, you are so wrong on that blanket statement you made about Warriors. I am an older person who does not drink beer at all, nor does my husband unless it is very hot. He goes to work everyday. He does have a belly but it’s fron eating, not beeer! I am retired and am a gourd artist. We have friends who are in the hotel management business, friends that work in all kinds of business (some workers and some businees management) and, my brother was the Art Director for Charles Schaab (sp). In case you don’t know, that a big financial company. All of these people are Toby Keith fans. We are not fanatical but will not turn down a Toby Keith concert because he makes us feel good and happy!
If you are so lonely that you have to make blanket staements about people you don’t know, guess what, we might just let you join us if you start being nicer! That giving you somehing that you are not giving us!
July 5, 2008 at 4:58 pm |
Meetcitiwurkor, you are so wrong on that blanket statement you made about Warriors. I am an older person who does not drink beer at all, nor does my husband unless it is very hot. He goes to work everyday. He does have a belly but it’s fron eating, not beer! I am retired and am a gourd artist. We have friends who are in the hotel management business, friends that work in all kinds of business (some workers and some businees management) and, my brother was the Art Director for Charles Schaab (sp) company. In case you don’t know, that a big financial company. All of these people are Toby Keith fans. We are not fanatical (well, maybe me) but will not turn down a Toby Keith concert because he makes us feel good and happy!
If you are so lonely that you have to make blanket staements about people you don’t know and stupid statements about someone you don’t care to find out about, , guess what, we might just let you join us if you start being nicer! That’s giving you somehing that you are not giving us!
July 5, 2008 at 4:59 pm |
Meetcitiwurkor, you are so wrong on that blanket statement you made about Warriors. I am an older person who does not drink beer at all, nor does my husband unless it is very hot. He goes to work everyday. He does have a belly but it’s fron eating, not beer! I am retired and am a gourd artist. We have friends who are in the hotel management business, friends that work in all kinds of business (some workers and some businees management) and, my brother was the Art Director for Charles Schaab (sp) company. In case you don’t know, that a big financial company. All of these people are Toby Keith fans. We are not fanatical (well, maybe me) but will not turn down a Toby Keith concert because he makes us feel good and happy!
If you are so lonely that you have to make blanket staements about people you don’t know and stupid statements about someone you don’t care to find out about, guess what, we might just let you join us if you start being nicer! That’s giving you somehing that you are not giving us or Toby. That’s giving you the benefit of the doubt.
July 6, 2008 at 12:01 pm |
I am a registered nurse. I’m not a drinker, and I love Toby Keith. Just because we are fans, Warriors, of someone that you don’t like, please don’t label us as stupid, or beer-gut hanging people. It’s sad that you are so jealous that this man has the devotion of so many people and you can’t even attract snails. Toby is very sincere in his love for the military, his country, his family, his friends and his fans. I’ve watched him bend down to a small child and sing just to them, or to the mentally challenged. He’s a good man. Not only does he support Ally’s House, he also supports St. Jude’s. Just because he sings drinking songs, or cheating songs, or patriotic songs, don’t make him a bad person. Patriotic? Yes he is, very much so. He sings country music, things about life. This man has a voice that compels. It draws you in, keeps you mesmerized. In his career, do you know how many concerts he’s cancelled? As far as I knw, only one or two, and that was when he broke his ankle, way back in the early days. I’ve seen Toby in concert, performing with a sore throat, a fever, etc. He keeps going. The day his father died, he had a concert, got the call and 20 mins later was doing his show. He knew that is what his father would have wanted. Did he go out and make an announcement, no he didn’t. They did the show, very professionally, then went home to grieve with his family. When Ally Webb was being sent home to die, he sent a plane to Memphis, to bring them back to Oklahoma, so that she could be at home, which is all that precious little girl wanted. You may not like him, or his music, but at least be decent enough to give the man his proper due. You are no better than the Nashville industry. I can’t wait until they decide to run your favorite person in the ground, so you can see how it feels. Oh, wait, I guess we are already doing that, since you are your favorite person, Meetcitiwurkor. Don’t hate the player, hate the game. So, do you, meetcitiworkor, make 48 million a year? NO? Oh, so you are actually just jealous, because Toby did something with his life. Instead of complaining, he made it work for him. All you have is a keyboard, and no life.
July 6, 2008 at 3:48 pm |
Well, I dont drink, I dont smoke, I have a College Degree, I am a professional in the transportation industry, who very much respects and loves Toby Keith. Warriors are all types of people brought together by thier love and respoect for Toby Keith. Warriors come in all ahapes and sizes, all ages, and educational backgrounds, various economical backgrounds, with the common bond of Toby Keith. We support Toby, Ally’s House and each other..
Have a great Day !!
Laura
July 6, 2008 at 6:43 pm |
There are a lot of white-collar college degrees in these ranks, with varied demographics. We aren’t all in one industry, our accents vary widely by the states we are from, cultures, nationalities. Toby Keith is great to listen to, and watch.
We haven’t all drunk the kool-aid. Having said that, he’s still the best male voice out there regardless of genre, when he chooses to exercise it. ‘American Soldier’ is perhaps the best example of that, but there are as many ballads as there are rompin’ stompin’ boozing and partying songs.
The political back and forth he got into was a little naive, a little opportunistic, and a little more than he probably bargained for, as much as it shot him into super-stardome. Too bad, his talents could have taken him there if he hadn’t pissed off the Nashville establishment. Whatever it was, they still hate him, as I guess does the provider of this forum. He’s overcome that, and except for the fact that he should have won a couple of Grammy’s and a lot more awards, he’s laughing all the way to the bank.
He’s a great entertainer with a terrific stage presence. With movie screens and stages void of the American Alpha male, we’ve lost something. It’s almost comical the way the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction and the metro-male has taken hold. Sorry, there’s a lot to appreciate about both styles, but I’m glad he’s representing for the ‘A’s.
Are his humanitarian pursuits out of proportion to other celebrities with his income? Absolutely not, and it’s most likely his wife’s involvement that keeps that going. But the thing you can’t argue with is his committment to entertaining on the front lines in battle fields yearly. That takes a lot of courage and commitment.
He can be as much of a jerk as the next guy, and continues to proove that in his belittlement occasionally of shall we say, less attractive members of either sex. But when you’re that good looking, you probably don’t have a clue as to the damage that stuff does. No excuses, but that shouldn’t overshadow his considerable talents.
As much as I don’t like occasionally what comes out of his mouth, for the most part, I do. He’s a straight shooter, has optimized his skills and presence and is very rich because of it. He brought me to country music, as I expect he did many others. One of his concerts on a Saturday night is a great diversion.
He doesn’t deserve the tremendous amount of crap he gets. Some of it, just not the amount he gets.
Here’s hoping he continues to sing for us for many more decades.
Sherry (Buckeye)
July 6, 2008 at 7:14 pm |
Toby’s Kids
Give your donation today.
July 7, 2008 at 8:59 pm |
Toby Keith Covel, well…..since 1995 Toby Keith Covel has been a solid influence in my life. Why? Toby and I share a common thread in life. He lost his father suddenly to a tragic car accident, around the same time, I lost not only my father, but my mother and my 17 year old son to a tragic car accident. It was my son who in 1994 turned me on to Toby’s music, so I turned to Toby and his music to get me through the hardest, emotional, tragic time of my life.
So how do I thank a man who inspired me to live, who influenced me to heal, and who filled my empty life with great words, and meaning, I support him, I have stayed a faithful fan club member, or Toby Warrior since 1995.
In his honor I held a benefit for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, raised $10,000.00, and was able to have a St. jude child meet his idol , Toby, at one of his concert.
This year I will hold a raffle at his Darien Lake NY concert to raise money for Ally’s House. These are ways I use to say thank you to Toby. Little does he know he saved a life. How ironic, a few months after I lost my family, i drove out to the sight of the crash, sriving on the wrong side of the street, until I heard Toby’s voice come through my car radio with Should Of Been A Cowboy. I then got myself back into the right lane and drove myself home.
It has been a long haul for me, and I still get my moments, that kind of pain never leaves, but Toby helps to ease that pain and gets me through the day.
His many qualities, a patriotic man, a caring father, a loving husband and son, a concerned brother, an amazing song writer, and a trememdous artist.
Maybe some day our paths will cross , and I can personally say “Thank You Mr. Covel”
Sincerely
Karen
Niagara Falls NY
July 8, 2008 at 7:24 pm |
Today is Tobys Birthday, I wanna say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to a very special man. There are alot of people out there that need to do some soul searching when it comes to Toby. He is a very giving man. A loving husband and great father. He enjoys life and making people feel special. If anyone ever gets the chance to see Toby in concert, Go for it. He puts on an amazing show. He makes his Warriors Proud !!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOBY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
July 9, 2008 at 10:06 pm |
I love how when Toby Keith fans are put into an obvious stereotypical category, nearly every one of them retort with a list of lifetime achievements. I can’t say that’s worse than “YOU ARE A ASS,” or random keyboard smashing and frowny emoticons, but I don’t think Toby Keith cares how many degrees his fans have as long as they keep buying his records.
July 13, 2008 at 12:40 pm |
I like him because his lips look like they were MADE to eat pussy!!