Toby Keith
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Early Life and Education
Toby Keith Covel was born on July 8, 1961, in Clinton, Oklahoma, to Joan Covel and Hubert Keith Covel. He is the second of three children, with a sister named Tonnie and a brother named Tracy. Toby spent most of his childhood in Moore, Oklahoma, where he attended Moore High School. After completing high school, he chose not to pursue higher education and instead followed in his father's footsteps by working in the oil fields of Oklahoma.
Quick Facts
- Birth Date
- 8 Jul, 1961
- Age
- 58 yrs
- Occupations
- Singer-songwriter
Actor
Singer
Record producer
Show all facts
- Citizenship
- United States of America
- Birth Place
- Clinton
- Education
- Villanova University
- Gender
- Male
- Description
- American country music singer and actor
- Net Worth 2021
- 365 million
Family and Personal Life
Before launching his music career, Toby married Tricia Lucus. He adopted Tricia's daughter, Shelley Reeve, and together they had two children—Krystal, born in 1985, and Stelen, born in 1997. Family life played a significant role in shaping Toby’s personal and professional journey.
Early Career Challenges and Breakthrough
Shortly after the birth of his daughter Krystal, the oil industry in Oklahoma experienced a collapse, leading to financial difficulties for Toby and his family. In response, he began touring with his band, Easy Money, which helped him regain financial stability. During this period, Keith released his debut album, Toby Keith, which marked the beginning of his professional music career.
“Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and Rise to Fame
The single “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” from his debut album became a major success, topping the country music charts and becoming the most-played country song of the 1990s, according to Billboard Magazine. This song established Toby Keith as a prominent figure in country music.
Musical Roots and Early Influences
Toby’s interest in music began early in life—he received his first guitar lesson at the age of eight. His grandmother owned a nightclub where he often performed during his youth, shaping his early exposure to the stage and live music.
