Craig Morgan Just Released a Cover of Toby Keith’s Iconic “American Soldier” And He Had His Family’s Blessing!

Craig Morgan is honoring America, the men and women who serve, and a dear friend whose music continues to mean so much to country fans.

The country singer has released a powerful new 11-song album titled My Country, arriving November 6 in celebration of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary and Veterans Day.

But one song on the project carries a particularly special meaning.

Morgan has recorded his own version of Toby Keith’s iconic hit “American Soldier,” and he revealed that he received the personal blessing of Toby’s family before releasing the cover.

For Morgan, this is more than simply recording a beloved country song. It’s a way to honor a friend, a fellow patriot, and an artist whose music left a lasting mark on the country music community.

Craig Morgan Releases New Album My Country

Morgan announced the release on social media, sharing his excitement about finally bringing the project to fans.

“‘My Country’ is out now! 11 songs celebrating the country I love, the music that raised me, and the men and women who serve it. Proud to finally share this one with you,” he wrote.

The album features 11 tracks celebrating American values, military service, family, faith, and the country music traditions that helped shape Morgan’s career.

The complete tracklist includes:

1. “I’m Country Music”
2. “American Soldier”
3. “The Will”
4. “Long May You Wave”
5. “That Ain’t Gonna Be Me”
6. “Blue Collar Prayer”
7. “Soldier”
8. “That’s What I Love About Sunday”
9. “Almost Home” – Craig Morgan & Jelly Roll
10. “International Harvester” – Craig Morgan & Lainey Wilson
11. “God, Family, and Country”

The project brings together familiar themes from Morgan’s music and celebrates the people and experiences that have shaped his life.

Toby Keith’s Family Personally Blessed the “American Soldier” Cover

One of the most meaningful moments surrounding the album is Morgan’s decision to record “American Soldier,” originally released by Toby Keith in 2003.

The song became one of Keith’s signature recordings, telling the story of a service member’s dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting the country.

Morgan revealed that he was privileged to receive the blessing of Toby Keith’s family, including his widow, Tricia, and their children, Shelley, Krystal, and Stelen.

“I’m privileged too to have the blessing of my friend Toby Keith’s family to record and release my own version of his iconic song, ‘American Soldier,’ on the project too. I can’t wait for everyone to listen!” Morgan shared in a statement.

That personal approval makes the recording especially meaningful.

Rather than simply revisiting a famous song, Morgan is paying tribute to someone he considered a friend and whose love of country and military service closely reflected his own.

Craig Morgan and Toby Keith Shared a Special Bond

Morgan and Keith shared more than a connection through country music. Both had a deep appreciation for America and the men and women who serve in the armed forces.

In a recent interview with Taste of Country, Morgan opened up about his friendship with Keith and revealed that the two had even discussed plans to tour together before Keith passed away.

He also recalled one of their final conversations, which centered on Morgan’s decision to return to military service.

Morgan remembered sitting on Keith’s tour bus after a show when the country star was already struggling with his health.

They talked about their military experiences and Morgan’s consideration of reenlisting.

Keith, known for his humor, playfully questioned whether Morgan would be able to keep up with the younger soldiers.

“I remember sitting on his bus after a show, and he wasn’t doing well at all, and talking about our service to our nation. I had just then contemplated going back into the military. I remember he poked fun. He’s like, ‘You know, are you going to be able to hang with these guys?’” Morgan recalled.

It’s a touching memory that offers a glimpse into their friendship and the humor they shared even during difficult times.

Craig Morgan’s Military Service Makes This Album Personal

Morgan’s connection to the subject of My Country comes from personal experience.

He joined the United States Army in 1982 and served until 1997. During his military career, he spent nine years with the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions, followed by six years in the Army Reserve.

His service included deployment during the United States invasion of Grenada in 1983.

In 2023, Morgan made the decision to return to military service, reenlisting in the Army Reserve during a ceremony on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry.

Earlier in 2026, his service was also recognized by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth during a promotion ceremony.

That background gives the songs on My Country a deeply personal connection. Morgan isn’t just singing about military service and patriotism — he has lived that experience.

A Tribute to Toby Keith and the Men and Women Who Serve

With My Country, Craig Morgan has brought together two important parts of his life: his love of country music and his commitment to honoring America’s service members.

The inclusion of “American Soldier” makes the project even more special, particularly with the blessing of Toby Keith’s family.

And knowing that Morgan and Keith shared conversations about their military experiences makes this tribute feel especially personal.

Toby Keith’s original recording remains a powerful part of country music history. Now, Morgan is giving the song a new interpretation while keeping its message alive for another generation.

For fans of both artists, this is a meaningful musical tribute — one rooted in friendship, respect, and a shared love of country.

Craig Morgan’s My Country is out now, and his version of Toby Keith’s “American Soldier” is one of the most meaningful tracks on the album.