Blake Shelton introduced the show by paying tribute to the artist, who passed away in February at 62 years of age.
Toby was a devoted spouse. Shelton, 47, spoke about her father. His presence was palpable. He would never wave the white flag.
During the broadcast, Aldean, who is 47 years old, got on stage and sang "Should've Been a Cowboy,"
Keith's breakthrough single from 1993 that peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs list.
The song was played in the background by photographs of Keith performing throughout his career as Aldean played guitar for his solemn cover of it.
As a memorial to the late musician, the crowd sung along with the chorus, and some even broke down in tears.
Aldean hinted at his tribute to Keith before the awards ceremony.
In an Instagram Story post from Tuesday, May 14, he commemorated his friend,