In July, just before he was scheduled to perform “American Soldier” on stage in honor of his friend and fellow country music artist Toby Keith, Trace Adkins’ calm exterior broke.
Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Carrie Underwood, Jordan Davis, Brantley Gilbert, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Darius Rucker, Ashley McBryde, and others performed at the Keith tribute show, Toby Keith: American Icon. The performance, which was recorded at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, will be shown on NBC on Wednesday, August 28, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
In February, Keith’s fight with stomach cancer came to an end. Prior to that, Adkins and Keith traveled through country music for decades in almost perfect unison while entertaining soldiers.
Adkins remarked, “Hopefully, I’ll just try to concentrate on the song and not think too much about my brother.” Maybe I can make it through, if I can. We’ll see.
Adkins stated he was aware of Keith’s personal attachment to “American Soldier” and remembers the men spending hours together on tour busses talking about their past experiences performing for the military both domestically and overseas.
Adkins stated, “It simply meant a lot to him and his respect and appreciation for men and women who serve.” It’s really deep and profound. It was sincere. I am aware of his meaning behind this song.
Along with Chuck Cannon, Keith wrote “American Soldier.”
I’m an American soldier, an American; beside my brothers and sisters; I will proudly take a stand when liberty is in danger; I will always do what’s right; I’m out here on the front lines; I’ll sleep in peace tonight are some of the lyrics.
Adkins expressed his gratitude and honor at being contacted by the organizers to take part in the tape.
At the end of the evening, Adkins, dressed in black trousers, a black shirt, and a black cowboy hat, ascended the stage to perform. He came after an emotional, patriotic performance by the Army Band and Honor Guard.
“We toured together several times over the years and did a lot of shows together,” Adkins said from the stage. “I just remember that every show, the last thing he always said before he walked off the stage was, ‘Never apologize for being patriotic.’”
With that statement, the crowd roared.
“I knew he was saying that because it was a challenge to the rest of us,” Adkins continued. “Also, it was a look inside who Toby Keith was because he believed that. The love and respect he had for the men and women who serve this country, it was marrow deep. It was profound. It was genuine. It was real. I always respected him so much.”
From the stage, Adkins remarked, “We did a lot of shows together and went on several tours together over the years.” “I just recall that before leaving the stage at every performance, he would always say, ‘Never apologize for being patriotic.'”
After saying that, the audience let forth a yell.
Adkins went on, “I knew he was saying that because it was a challenge to the rest of us.” It was also a glimpse into Toby Keith’s identity because he held that belief. He had a deep and abiding affection and respect for the men and women who serve this country. It was really meaningful. It was sincere. It was authentic. He has always had my utmost respect.
Adkins Is Glad To Have Called Toby Keith Adkins, one of his friends, said he was “proud to have known him and call him a friend,” but he could talk about Keith all night.
“Many thanks, Dawg. Adkins told Keith, “I miss you,” just before he began to sing.
Adkins’s powerful baritone almost carried the song without faltering in the slightest.
During a night filled with hits from today’s biggest singers, Adkins’ farewell to his friend shone as a genuine and emotional farewell.
As he departed the stage, he repeated what Keith had said, “Never apologize for being patriotic.”