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Toby Keith asked late country star Johnny Rodriguez to perform on his milestone 60th birthday.
Keith’s team shared photos of the two late artists — fittingly, Rodriguez is holding a red solo cup — in honor of Rodriguez. The Texas-born singer-songwriter “left us peacefully…surrounded by family” on Friday (May 9), his daughter confirmed in a statement. He was 73.
“Toby always said that Johnny Rodriguez was a big influence on his singing. He saw Johnny in concert many times, and even booked him to perform at his 60th birthday celebration. RIP Johnny,” the caption reads on the post shared to Keith’s social media accounts on Monday night (May 12). Keith died after a years-long battle with stomach cancer on February 5, 2024. He was 62. Another legendary country artist, George Strait, also mourned Rodriguez’ loss in a heartfelt tribute.
Aubry Rodriguez, the late “Pass Me By (If You're Only Passing Through)” singer’s daughter, said in a statement on Friday that “it is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Johnny Rodriguez… Dad was not only a legendary musician whose artistry touched millions around the world, but also a deeply loved husband, father, uncle, and brother whose warmth, humor, and compassion shaped the lives of all who knew him.
“We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of love and support from fans, colleagues, and friends during this time of grief,” she said. “While the world has lost an extraordinary talent, we have lost someone irreplaceable - and we ask for privacy as we navigate this painful moment together.”