Legendary country musician Willie Nelson, 91, had to cancel several concert appearances this past weekend on doctor’s orders. The iconic singer was slated to kick off the Outlaw Music Festival Tour on Friday, June 21, but had to pull out last minute due to health concerns.
Nelson’s team announced the cancellation on social media just hours before the scheduled performance. “We regret to inform you that Willie Nelson is not feeling well and, per doctor’s orders, has been advised to rest for the next four days,” the statement on Nelson’s official X (formerly Twitter) account read. The post reassured fans that Nelson is expected to make a quick recovery and will rejoin the tour next week.
In the interim, Willie’s son Lukas Nelson and the Family Band stepped up to fill his father’s shoes, performing a special set that included many of Willie’s classics. Other headliners like Bob Dylan, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, and Celisse performed as planned, ensuring that the festival continued despite the unexpected change.
Nelson’s representative also provided an optimistic update, stating, “Willie will be fine. I live in Los Angeles and will fly next week to see the performances on the East Coast. I can’t wait.”
While a precise return date wasn’t confirmed, Nelson is expected to be back on stage for the June 26 show in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The Outlaw Music Festival Tour, which features a star-studded lineup, is anticipated to be one of the biggest and best yet. On the tour’s website, Nelson expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “This year’s Outlaw Music Festival Tour promises to be the biggest and best yet with this lineup of legendary artists. I am thrilled to get back on the road again with my family and friends playing the music we love for the fans we love.”
Despite the setback, Nelson remains committed to his passion for performing. In an interview with AARP around his 90th birthday last year, he shared his love for touring: “Working is really good for me, no matter what kind of show it is.” When asked about retirement, he humorously added, “Jokingly, I retire after every tour. But I’m always ready to go back again. I like the bus. I have everything I need on the bus. I never have to go into a hotel room anywhere. It’s not that bad.”
As fans await his return, they can take comfort in knowing that Willie Nelson’s resilience and dedication to music continue to shine, even in the face of health challenges.
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