The late country legend will be honored in a special tribute at the 2024 CMT Music Awards.
Variety/Getty Images
Toby’s three children, Krystal Keith, Shelley Covel Rowland and Stelen Keith Covel, made a rare joint appearance at the 2024 CMT Music Awards on Sunday, April 7, putting on a united front as they prepared to witness a special presentation in honor of their dad.
The “Red Solo Cup” crooner shared his kids with longtime wife Tricia Lucus, whom he was married to for 40 years up until his death in February following a battle with stomach cancer.
Just two months after his passing, Krystal, Shelley and Stelen stepped out for their first public appearance together since their dad died at the age of 62.
(L-R) Krystal Keith, Shelley Covel Rowland and Stelen Keith Covel at the 2024 CMT Music Awards held at the Moody Center on April 7, 2024 in Austin, Texas.
Gilbert Flores/Getty Images
Shelley, 43, known for living mostly a private life, is Toby’s older daughter. She was born to Tricia and later adopted by the country crooner after they tied the knot in 1984. Toby and Tricia welcomed Krystal together the following year in September 1985.
Krystal, 38, opted to use her dad’s stage name, “Keith,” as her last name, despite his actual surname, Covel, which her other siblings took. Stelen, 26, is the pair’s youngest child and only son, whom they welcomed in April 1997.
The CMTs are planning to dedicate a special presentation to Toby during the award show on Sunday, featuring a performance from artists including Lainey Wilson, Brooks & Dunn, Sammy Hagar and members of Toby’s longtime band.
“I think he’d be really excited,” Stelen said on the red carpet before Sunday’s show. “He’d made some amazing music throughout his career and it’s amazing that we get to see that come to fruition and see his due given.”
Lukas Nelson and Roger Clemens are also expected to make special appearances onstage at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas, to participate in the emotional tribute.
In addition to the CMTs dedication, CBS will also air a special presentation in honor of Keith, entitled, CMT Music Awards Celebrate Toby Keith. The program, airing Thursday, April 11 at 10 p.m. ET, will look back on all of his most memorable moments on the CMT Music Awards stage.
