Michael Ray paid tribute to Toby Keith during his performance at Country Fest in Wisconsin on Saturday, June 25.
The chart-topping country hitmaker and Florida native honored Keith with a special performance of “Should’ve Been A Cowboy,” the lead single from Keith’s self-titled debut album. The performance prompted a massive sing-along with fans in attendance.
The “Holy Water” singer took to social media to share the special moment he shared with nearly 5,000 fans at the country music festival.
“Sending some love to my buddy @tobykeith. Show this cancer who its daddy is bud. We miss ya out here,” Ray captioned the clip.
In the video, Ray is seen singing the Toby Keith hit as the crowd roars the lyrics back to him.
“Just me and about 5,000 country music fans at Country Fest breaking it down and sending it down and sending all the love to my buddy Toby Keith. Get better cowboy, We miss ya out here. Cheers!”
The performance comes weeks after Keith revealed that he was diagnosed with stomach cancer.
“Last fall I was diagnosed with stomach cancer. I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax,” Keith shared at the time.
He added, “I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.”
Earlier this year, Ray earned his fourth No. 1 with “Whiskey And Rain,” which recently went platinum.
“So proud to be able to say that #whiskeyandrain is officially a PLATINUM record!! 🤯” Ray wrote alongside a photo with his team. ”I couldn’t do this without all of y’all or the team I have behind me. When I first heard this song, I connected with the idea of letting yourself really live in a moment where it can wash over you. I’m so grateful that it’s found a home in your hearts too. Here’s to another million!!! 🥃🌧”
Meanwhile, Toby Keith released his 19th studio album, Peso In My Pocket, in 2021. The project includes the fan-favorite track, “Old School,” as well as his brand-new radio single, “Oklahoma Breakdown.”
Co-produced by Keith and Kenny Greenberg, the 10-track album includes songs co-written with Sammy Hagar, former frontman of Van Halen, as well as cuts from the Warren Brothers, Ryan Hurd, Maren Morris, Jessie Jo Dillon and more.
Additionally, Keith has also canceled all upcoming tour dates.