This moment was captured after Toby Keith had spent nearly three decades on the road — alongside a longtime friend, somewhere backstage, in the later years of his life. He threw one arm around his buddy’s shoulders, the other holding that familiar red cup. Toby always had a way of making people feel at ease. Whether it was a big show or a cramped backstage hallway lit by fluorescent lights — he remained true to himself: simple, funny, and fully present in every moment.

Introduction “Cryin’ For Me (Wayman’s Song)” is a poignant mid‑tempo country‑jazz ballad, written and recorded...