The entertainment world is in mourning as news spreads of the passing of legendary country music artist Toby Keith at the age of 62, following a courageous battle with stomach cancer. Many celebrities have been grieving his loss such as Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Dolly Parton and Danielle Vasinova, who starred opposite Keith in the iconic music video “Bullets in the Gun.”
Danielle Vasinova, took to social media to express her sadness upon learning of Toby Keith’s passing. In a heartfelt post, she reminisced about their time working together on the “Bullets in the Gun” music video, citing it as her favorite project of all time to shoot. Vasinova described Keith as an incredible artist with a huge heart, a true legend, and patriot who departed from this world far too soon.
“Saddened to hear about the loss of @tobykeith – we did the music video “Bullets in the Gun” together which was my favorite video of all time to shoot. Such an incredible artist with a huge heart, a true legend & patriot gone way too soon. Toby, you will be missed #rip #tobykeith” Vasinova wrote.
“Bullets in the Gun,” the title track from Keith’s fourteenth studio album, showcased Vasinova as the lead actress opposite Chad Bannon. The music video, directed by Michael Salomon (who has also directed projects for Garth Brooks, Madonna, Mick Jagger, Janet Jackson, Billy Joel, Whitney Houston, Bon Jovi, and many others), fascinated audiences with its cinematic storytelling and action-packed scenes. Vasinova and Bannon spent three days filming the action sequences in Lancaster, California, under Salomon’s direction.
The video Bullets of the Gun, was presented at the ACA Awards as the most cinematic video of the year.
Reflecting on the news of Toby Keith’s passing, Vasinova shared her initial thoughts and emotions. “Toby Keith was such a compelling storyteller and musician. I was struck by a deep sense of sadness and loss, particularly with his passing at a young age,” she said. “It was another harsh reminder that tomorrow is promised to none of us.”
Regarding the creative process behind “Bullets in the Gun,” Vasinova shed light on the collaborative effort that brought the music video to life. “From the beginning, the video was meant to be very cinematic. Every word Toby sings is summed up by the action on film,” she explained. “The story of two lovers caught up in a tragic crime is timeless, almost like a modern-day western. It became easy to react and interact with my co-stars and enable the cinematic world of the music video to come to life.”
Throughout his battle with cancer, Toby Keith leaned on his faith and the support of his family, including his wife Patricia. In an interview with News 9, Keith expressed gratitude for their unwavering support and credited his faith for providing him with peace and strength during his illness.
“You take it for granted on the days that things are good, and you lean on it when days are bad,” Keith told host Robin Marsh. “It has taught me to lean on a little more every day.” Keith shared on his interview.
“I was going through all the chemo, radiation, surgery, and I got to the point where I was comfortable with whatever happened. I had my brain wrapped around it, and I was in a good spot either way.”
As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues alike, Toby Keith’s legacy as a prolific musician and philanthropist will undoubtedly endure. Danielle Vasinova’s poignant words serve as a testament to the impact Keith had not only as an artist but as a compassionate human being.
Published By: Aize Perez
