Introduction
Country music sensation Jelly Roll kicked off the new year with a heartfelt tribute to his musical hero, the late Toby Keith. During Nashville’s Big Bash New Year’s Eve special on December 31, Jelly Roll delivered a stirring rendition of Keith’s iconic 1993 debut single, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” as part of a five-song set that had the crowd roaring with applause.
A Tribute to a Country Legend
Before performing the timeless track, Jelly Roll took a moment to address the audience with an emotional dedication:
“I want to dedicate this next song to one of the greatest country music legends ever. In his memory, God rest your soul, Big Dog Daddy—Toby Keith, baby!”
This performance was yet another of Jelly Roll’s heartfelt tributes to Keith, who passed away in February 2024 at the age of 62 after a battle with stomach cancer.
A Year of Tribute and Heartfelt Homage
Jelly Roll, 40, has been honoring Keith throughout 2024, often performing “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” as a tribute to the country legend. The cover was first showcased at the Stagecoach Festival in April, alongside rapper T-Pain. The two later released a recorded version exclusively for Amazon Music, with proceeds benefiting the Toby Keith Foundation, which supports pediatric cancer patients.
Reflecting on his bond with Keith, Jelly Roll shared with Variety:
“I had been covering ‘Should’ve Been a Cowboy’ for about a year, just honoring Toby before he passed, as he was fighting through his illness.”
Jelly Roll also revealed that Keith’s son, Stelen, had given his approval for the cover, calling it one of the best versions he had ever heard.
A Perfect Way to Close Out 2024
Jelly Roll’s performance on New Year’s Eve was a fitting conclusion to a year filled with tributes to Toby Keith. Earlier in the year, he participated in the star-studded Toby Keith: American Icon special in July, where he performed alongside country heavyweights like Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Ashley McBryde, Darius Rucker, and Carrie Underwood.
Alongside “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” Jelly Roll’s Big Bash set featured his own chart-topping hits like “I Am Not Okay,” “Need a Favor,” “Son of a Sinner,” and “Liar.” His performance demonstrated the emotional depth and storytelling that have won him a dedicated following.
Carrying Keith’s Legacy Forward
Jelly Roll’s tribute to Toby Keith is more than just a nod to the past; it’s a testament to how Keith’s legacy continues to shape today’s country music. For Jelly Roll, Keith was more than a musical inspiration—he was a guiding force that encouraged him to embrace country music as part of his evolving sound.
“Toby Keith was one of the artists who, from a distance, inspired me to dive into country music, even though he might not have known it,” Jelly Roll said.
Through his performances and charitable efforts, Jelly Roll ensures that Keith’s influence remains alive, honoring country music traditions while adding his own soulful touch.