Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
Underwood is among several country stars featured in Toby Keith: American Icon, which will air Wednesday night on NBC and be available for streaming on Peacock the following day.
Carrie Underwood is set to kick off NBC’s concert special Toby Keith: American Icon with an energetic performance of “A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Action.” PEOPLE has an exclusive first look at her tribute.
Addressing the crowd at Bridgestone Arena, Underwood, 41, said, “Nashville! We are all here for one reason — this incredible man,” as a large photo of Keith appeared behind her.
Recently announced as a returning judge on American Idol, Underwood’s dynamic performance of Keith’s 1993 hit, from his debut album, promises to get fans on their feet.
Following Toby Keith’s passing from stomach cancer in February at age 62, Carrie Underwood shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, posting several photos of them together. She wrote, “Saddle up the horses, Jesus, ‘cause a true blue COWBOY just made his ride up to heaven!!!” adding, “Introduce him to all the Okies and sign that boy up for the choir! We’re gonna miss you, Toby, but my heart has no doubt that you are standing in the presence of our King right now!!! See you again someday, friend.”
Underwood, known for her hit “Two Black Cadillacs,” is among numerous artists coming together to honor Keith’s life and legacy.
In addition to Carrie Underwood’s performance, the special Toby Keith: American Icon will feature a lineup of country stars honoring Keith’s music:
- Eric Church will perform “As Good as I Once Was.”
- Brantley Gilbert and HARDY will take on “How Do You Like Me Now?!”
- Riley Green and Ella Langley will sing “Who’s Your Daddy?”
- Ashley McBryde will handle “Wish I Didn’t Know Now.”
- Luke Bryan will perform Keith’s signature song “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” while wearing a black cowboy hat.
- Lainey Wilson and Jamey Johnson will team up for “Beer for My Horses.”
- Darius Rucker will cover “God Love Her.”
- Jordan Davis and Clay Walker will perform “I Love This Bar.”
- Tyler Hubbard will lead a lively version of “Red Solo Cup,” joined by Jelly Roll, HARDY, Jordan Davis, songwriters Jim and Brett Beavers, and the Warren Brothers.
Krystal Keith, Toby Keith’s daughter, will also perform in the tribute concert. The event will feature appearances by various stars, including Brett Favre, Trace Adkins, and Parker McCollum.
Toby Keith’s passing earlier this year marked the end of a remarkable career, during which he achieved 42 Top 10 songs, 33 No. 1 hits, and sold 44 million albums.
