The Story Of Toby Keith’s Final Recording
via Entertainment Tonight / Youtube
Toby Keith, a well-known name in country music, made his final studio recording before he passed away. Released on March 29, this recording was part of a special album that pays homage to Joe Diffie, another star from the 90s. Keith chose to cover a song by Diffie, adding his voice to honor the late singer’s legacy.
HIXTAPE Vol. 3: DIFFTAPE and Toby Keith’s Final Recording
On a Friday morning, the singer HARDY introduced the third part of the HIXTAPE series. These albums are known for combining talents, with HARDY collaborating with different country artists. The latest, called HIXTAPE Vol. 3: DIFFTAPE, stands out as it’s entirely dedicated to another artist – Joe Diffie. This album celebrates Diffie’s most loved songs.
For HIXTAPE Vol. 3: DIFFTAPE, many famous country singers came together to remake Joe Diffie’s top hits. The album is a mix of original recordings from 2006 and new vocals from current music stars. Some of these big names include Lainey Wilson, Clint Black, Luke Bryan, Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, and Brooks & Dunn.
But the track that’s catching everyone’s attention is one that features Joe Diffie, Luke Combs, and Toby Keith. Keith’s part in this song is his last recorded work before he died on February 5th.
The song they all sang, “Ships That Don’t Come In,” is about two people who share their life disappointments and raise a glass to those who are waiting for good things that never happen. Paul Nelson and Dave Gibson wrote the song. Even though it wasn’t a chart-topper for Diffie, it became one of his signature and treasured works.
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Reflecting on Loss: Toby Keith’s Promise and Battle
Joe Diffie died on March 29, 2020, because of complications from the coronavirus. After his passing, Toby Keith remembered him on social media. Keith said, “A great traditional voice will live on ‘cuz I’m putting his music on now. Here’s a beer to ya, Joe. Go get your reward.” These words show Keith’s respect and promise to keep his friend’s music alive.
At that time, Keith probably didn’t know that he would soon put his vocals to one of Diffie’s songs, leaving a legacy and sealing their places in country music history.
Before he died, Keith had been open about his stomach cancer battle. However, his death was still a shock to his fans. They thought he was improving because he made public shows like a short stint in Vegas, sang at the People’s Choice Country Awards, and appeared on social media now and then.
You can listen to Joe Diffie, Luke Combs, and Toby Keith perform “Ships That Don’t Come In” in the video below.
