He could have been an oilman or an athlete. But a knack for singing, guitar playing and writing made Toby Keith a fascinating artist of mixed political persuasion, life experiences and musical influences. Yet however far his fame would take him, Keith was a Sooner through and through, proud of his home state and his Oklahoma roots. From his early honky-tonk days to all the heady heights of his 30-plus-year career, Keith became more than someone who sang that he Shouldve Been a Cowboy he became the country star we needed. This special tribute explores the origins, staying power and wide reach of a musical maverick, including a list of Keiths essential tracks, songs to savor as we raise a red Solo cup in his honor.