After his battle with stomach cancer, country singer Toby Keith made a triumphant return to the stage with two surprise concerts in Oklahoma over the holiday weekend. This was his first time performing since revealing his diagnosis last summer.

Keith, who owns the bar and music venue Hollywood Corners in Norman, Oklahoma, performed two 2.5-hour sets on June 30 and July 1. In an Instagram post, he shared, “Toby’s first rehearsal turned into a 212-hour pop-up show,” where he sang all his hit songs as well as the Bus Songs.

In pictures posted on his Instagram, Keith could be seen laughing and holding a guitar with his longtime friend and business partner Scotty Emerick. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for Keith, who had been undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery since his cancer diagnosis.

In a recent interview, the 61-year-old singer shared that he was feeling pretty good and intended to resume touring by the end of the year if his strength allowed. He expressed his gratitude for the positive direction his health was moving in.

Keith also revealed that his blood tests were improving, and his tumor had shrunk by about a third. Alongside his ongoing chemotherapy, he mentioned seeing a dietician and undergoing immunotherapy.

While Keith acknowledged the uncertainties of cancer, he spoke optimistically about his future plans. He hoped to test his endurance by performing for two or three days with his band and take a short break from treatment to see if he could handle the demands of a longer tour.

Despite needing some time to rest and heal, Keith’s passion for performing remained strong. He looked forward to getting back on the road once his health was back on track.

Toby Keith’s return to the stage not only showcased his resilience but also served as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. His music continues to touch the hearts of fans, reminding them of the power of perseverance and the joy of live performances.