Sammy Hagar paid a heartfelt tribute to his late friend and fellow musician, Toby Keith, last week on the Rock Legends Cruise.
Hagar performed one of Keith's songs, "I Love This Bar", last Thursday night, in memory of the country star who passed away earlier this month from stomach cancer. He said he had a "hard time singing" the song but felt he "had to do it" for his buddy.
The tribute was inspired by a gesture from a fan in the audience, who placed a red solo cup and a t-shirt with the word "TOBY" on stage. Hagar took the shirt and kissed it, showing his respect and affection for Keith.
The next day, during a Q&A session hosted by Premiere Radio's Sal Cirrincione, Hagar opened up about his friendship with Keith, whom he described as "honest and direct", "a good American", and "a dear friend". He said doing the song was "good" for him, and that he "had some closure".
Hagar and Keith had shared the stage for the last time in December, in Las Vegas, where they performed together and had a blast. Hagar said Keith was "the kind of guy that, when you have him as a friend, it's like, you ask him to do something, he don't ever say, 'Well, let me get back to you.' It's either yes or no."
Hagar also praised Keith's musical talent and legacy, saying he was "one of the greatest songwriters of our generation". He said he loved Keith "for that alone", and that they were "buddies", not just "two celebrities getting together".
Toby Keith died on February 5th, at the age of 62.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]