Jelly Roll’s song choice during NBC’s Toby Keith tribute special, Toby Keith: American Icon, was deeply emotional.

When he took the stage in the second half of the show, the singer dedicated his performance to Keith’s family. “Toby inspired me to be a better American, a better person, a better songwriter, and with songs like this, most importantly, he inspired me to be a better father,” the “Save Me” singer told the crowd.

As Jelly Roll sang “My List,” photos of Keith with his children and his wife Tricia Lucus when they were all much younger were shown on the screen behind him. The combination caused several people in the audience, as well as some of Keith’s family members, to cry.

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About “My List” by Toby Keith

The song is structured as the singer’s “list” of things to do, and as he goes through the items, he reflects on which ones are important and which aren’t. “Wouldn’t change the course of fate, Mowing the lawn would just have to wait, ‘Cause I got more important things, Like pushing my kid on the swing in the backyard,” he says, resolving to put faith and family first.

“My List” was released in December 2001 and eventually reached the top of the country charts. The music video is about a firefighter and family man and references the events of September 11, 2001. Keith himself also appears in a firefighter’s outfit. Before its release, Keith performed the song in an episode of the TV series Touched by an angel.

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Toby Keith’s dedication to serving men and women

Throughout his career, Keith’s own “list” prioritized performing for the troops. He played over 280 USO shows in 18 countries, visiting 132 military bases and locations to entertain over 250,000 service members. He also made more visits to active combat zones than the last four U.S. presidents combined!

Toby Keith: American Icon will air on NBC on Wednesday, August 28 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT. The special will honor the country superstar’s legacy with performances from his peers.