Blake Shelton has revealed a bittersweet truth about his longtime friend and fellow Oklahoman, Toby Keith — a wish Keith never got to fulfill before his passing.
The two shared a history that went all the way back to the start of Shelton’s career, when he spent nearly two years opening for Keith on tour. Their friendship was built on laughter, good-natured teasing, and a deep respect for each other’s craft. Shelton recalled joking with Keith at an awards show early in his career:
“Man, Toby, if I ever make it big enough one day and I get nominated for some awards, I hope it’s against you.”
Keith, in his trademark wit, shot back,
“You know why I brought you out on tour with me? I wanted to prove to this industry that I don’t really need an opening act.”
But beneath the jokes was a bond strengthened by their shared Oklahoma roots. Shelton credits Keith, along with other Oklahoma legends like Reba McEntire, for giving him the confidence to pursue music in Nashville. “When Toby came out with ‘Should’ve Been a Cowboy,’ my mom told me she’d just seen him in Oklahoma City. That was huge for me — proof that someone from our neck of the woods could make it big.”
One of Keith’s last wishes was to attend Shelton’s upcoming Oklahoma benefit concert for the Country Music Hall of Fame, an event featuring some of the state’s greatest artists. Blake revealed that Keith had told him personally that he planned to be there — maybe even perform alongside him.
Sadly, Keith passed away before the night could happen.
“It’s something he really wanted to do,” Shelton said, his voice heavy with emotion. “He’ll still be there… just in spirit.”
For Shelton, the stage in Oklahoma will carry an empty space where Keith should have stood — but his presence, influence, and music will linger, felt by every artist and fan in the crowd.