Toby Keith [ tickets ], currently in the midst of a tour that paves the way for his forthcoming best-of album, continues to add shows to his schedule.

Among the recent additions to Keith's itinerary--which includes a mix of amphitheater, fair and festival appearances--are stops in Connecticut, Ohio, Georgia and Florida.

According to organizers, the tour is drawing large crowds so far: 40,000-plus fans in the Boston area, 21,000 in Pittsburgh, 18,700 in Philadelphia and 20,000 in Washington, DC.

Though Keith's next album, "Greatest Hits 2," doesn't reach stores until Nov. 9, its first single, "Stays in Mexico," is already getting airplay on country radio stations.

According to a recent press release issued by Merle Haggard's camp, Haggard and Keith are recording a pair of duets together, with one song expected to appear on an upcoming Keith album and another to land on a Haggard set.

The track that's headed for a future Keith album--whether it will be on "Greatest Hits 2" is unclear--is being produced by longtime Keith collaborator James Stroud.

Keith's latest all-new album was 2002's "Shock 'N Y'all," which is certified triple-platinum in the U.S.

Keith dominated the 39th annual Academy of Country Music Awards in May, taking home four trophies, including his second straight Entertainer of the Year award. He also won Album of the Year for "Shock 'N Y'all," and ACM/Launch Video of the Year for "Beer for My Horses."