Introduction
⚡ EXCLUSIVE: Colt Ford Recalls Near-Death Encounter — He Didn’t See the Light, He Saw Toby Keith
In the world of country music, few possess the raw fighting spirit of Colt Ford. But even the man who survived a heart attack that nearly claimed his life admits that some things exist beyond reason and science.
After facing death twice in 2024, country-rap legend Colt Ford is finally opening up about his near-death experience (NDE). What he saw was not the “light at the end of the tunnel” or a vision of heaven, as commonly described. Instead, he saw a familiar face: his late friend and mentor, Toby Keith.
The Unexpected Meeting
Colt Ford has been undergoing a lengthy recovery process following his near-fatal heart attack. In a recent exclusive interview, Ford shared details from the moment his heart stopped:
“Everybody talks about seeing the light. I didn’t see the light, I saw Toby.”
Ford described the moment as one of absolute peace, devoid of pain or fear. He saw Toby Keith, who passed away earlier in the year, standing there with his familiar grin. The encounter, according to Ford, was not communicated through words, but through a profound sense of understanding.
“He didn’t say anything, but his eyes said it all,” Ford revealed. “It was like he was saying, ‘It ain’t your time yet, you idiot. You’ve got work to do.’ That feeling was a push. I felt like I was physically shoved back, instantly.”
Legacy and Transformation
The relationship between Colt Ford and Toby Keith went beyond professional collaboration. Keith was a mentor, a close friend, and even collaborated with Ford on the song “Time Flies.” Toby Keith always championed Ford’s unique country-rap style, even when Nashville was skeptical.
This near-death experience has transformed not only Colt Ford’s life but his music as well. After losing over 130 pounds and having to retrain his voice, Ford has returned to the stage with a new attitude, filled with gratitude and authenticity.
“Every show is a gift now,” Ford stated. “Toby taught me about living life large and never giving up. And now, he gave me another lesson from the other side. I have to live for both of us, and get my music out to the people who need it.”
Colt Ford is using this otherworldly encounter as motivation to finish his newest album, a blend of Southern rock, pure country, and hip-hop, paying homage to his roots and the legacy of Toby Keith.