There are about 15 weeks until July 4 (which is 15 weeks too many in my opinion) so what better way to get into the spirit as early as possible than with a little Toby Keith?
There’s no argument that “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue” and “Made In America” are obviously the two classic patriotic anthems; however, Keith’s 2003 chart-topping hit “Beer For My Horses” featuring Willie Nelson also belongs in that category. Released as the fourth and final single from his 2002 album, Unleashed, it has since been certified 3x platinum by the RIAA, remaining a fan-favorite staple in his discography.
In honor of “Big Dog Daddy” Keith and this absolute staple in his discography, country legend Jamey Johnson, alongside singer-songwriter Ernest, performed the hit on the Grand Ole Opry stage for Johnson’s July 2025 50th birthday celebration. The Opry has recently been rolling out clips of the previously recorded program on their Facebook/Youtube and this duo was a standout from the night.
Beyond the fact that the audio from this performance is crisp as day, both men serve this song justice. Jamey Johnson singing Toby Keith is the most perfect pairing given their oddly similar registers.
Also, considering this was Johnson’s birthday bash after all, it makes sense why he’d want to spend the night giving his late pal Keith a little memento. Around the same time, in an interview with Dillon Weldon on July 15, 2025, Johnson noted that he always saw Keith as a big brother figure and an encouragement to continue his career, “Toby was always there nudging me along, ‘Hey, why aren’t you writing? What are you doing?’ It mattered to him.”
The Opry also noted that they’re going to continue to release more live broadcasts every Saturday night at 9/8c in case you need a weekend activity. For now, sit back and enjoy what one comment rightfully proclaimed is the “best rendition I’ve heard.”