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Yesterday, we reported that country music star Toby Keith died Monday evening at the age of 62 after a battle with stomach cancer. Now, it's been revealed that Keith helped launch Blake Shelton and Taylor Swift's careers in a big way.
Keith and Shelton
Fox News reported that when Shelton first moved to Nashville, he was counting “I Wanna Talk About Me” as his first single, but it was given to Keith instead and it became a No. 1 hit. In 2003, Shelton joined Keith on tour as an opening act Him on the Shock'N Y'all tour.
Shelton honored Keith at the People's Choice Country Awards in September.
“They say your big break comes when you sign a recording contract or when your first song comes out. For me, one of those things was getting the chance to open for Toby Keith,” Shelton said at the time. “When I was a new artist, I had the opportunity to break out On the road with Toby, and then, night after night, 20,000 fans showed up to see Toby perform, and he kept them fat and happy.”
RELATED: Sad details emerge about Toby Keith's death after his death at the age of 62
Shelton honors Keith
Shelton went on to say that it took about two years for him to feel comfortable enough to joke with Keith on tour.
“I remember one night, it was after an awards show,” Shelton recalls. “And Toby was nominated for four or five awards, and he didn't win that night. I was talking to him afterward, and I had the nerve — and I was so excited that I was able to get under his skin — and I said, 'Man, Toby, if I ever make it big… days and I was nominated for an award.” Awards, and I hope it is against you.
“I swear Toby looked at me and said, ‘Do you know why I took you out on tour?’ And I said, ‘No.’” He added, “I wanted to prove to the industry that I don’t really need an opening act.”
Shelton spoke to honor Keith after his death.
“Even though I've known about your battle over the past few months, I never imagined this day,” he said. “Anyone who knows you knows what I mean. You were the toughest man I've ever met. Thank you brother for being a friend, a hero and an inspiration. There will never be another Toby Keith.”
RELATED: Kid Rock pays tribute to his friend Toby Keith after his death at age 62
Keith helped Taylor Swift
Keith also helped launch Taylor Swift's career. He started his own label, Show Dog Nashville, in 2005, the same year Big Machine Records was launched. Big Machine Records, founded by Scott Burchett, was Swift's original label, and she proceeded to sign Keith.
“You're in the room with him and you can feel it. There's a power there. You just go, 'Oh my God.' I don't think I'll ever get to a point where I don't see him and say, 'Oh my God, that's Toby Keith,'” Swift said at the time.
Keith reportedly owned a 10% stake in Big Machine and purchased a building in Nashville to house the two brands.
“Toby is a really smart businessman. I send him checks,” Borchetta said in 2013.
“I know there's an extra comma, if you add up all the money I've ever made,” Keith said at the time, referring to the money Swift brought in.
Keith's family announced his death earlier this week.
“Toby Keith passed away peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family,” a statement on Keith's website read.
“He fought his battle with grace and courage. Please respect his family’s privacy at this time.
Please join us in saying a prayer for Keith's loved ones during this difficult time.
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