The country music world was at a loss when singer-songwriter Toby Keith passed away in February of last year. The singer had a long fight with stomach cancer, which first began with a diagnosis he received in June 2022. Colt Ford, who was a "super close" friend of the singer, revealed that it was actually Toby Keith he saw when he had a near-death experience after having a heart attack.
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After a performance in Gilbert, Arizona, Ford underwent a 10-hour surgery and was placed on life support. It was during his hospital visit that he "died twice"and had a heavenly encounter with his late mentor, who he shared used to call him "Little Dog Daddy."
He shared with Taste of Country Nights, "There was a bell, it was a bright light and Toby stepped out and said, 'They're not ready for you yet Little Dog, go on back down there.' That's how I woke up. I literally just opened my eyes, I didn't know what happened, I didn't know anything had transpired."
He also revealed the funny truth behind the singer's nickname for him on the Charlie Rymer Golf Show. "He used to call me 'Little Dog Daddy.' He was the 'Big Dog Daddy.' I guess I can be the 'Little Dog Daddy' because he is about a foot taller than me."
Colt Ford and Toby Keith Go Way Back
Before he ever pursued music, Colt Ford was a successful golfer who made a living playing the sport for over ten years. It was through the game that he met Keith, whom he would later describe as a "mentor" to him when he pursued his music career. Keith and Ford would play golf together and formed a strong bond that would later help Ford professionally.
In 2014, the rapper opened for Keith on two tours, and in 2019, he signed to TKO artist management, which Keith represents. "He took a chance on me... The friendship has been unbelievable, " he shared.
In November of 2024, Ford posted an old photo of himself and Keith on Instagram, sitting on the golf course. He captioned it, "Came on my memories today. Miss ya, Big Dog, never be another one Like You."
Of seeing the singer during his near-death experience, Ford described Keith as being "larger than life."
Photo by: Rick Kern/Getty Images for iHeartMedia
