Mark Chesnutt Hospitalized Again Amid Ongoing Health Struggles—Cancels Shows, Fans Rally with Support
Country music fans were met with concerning news this week as Mark Chesnutt, the beloved voice behind classics like “Too Cold at Home” and “Brother Jukebox”, was rushed to the hospital on Thursday morning (Oct. 16), just hours before he was set to perform in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
The Medical Emergency That Halted His Return
Chesnutt was scheduled to open for Alabama at the Raising Cane’s River Center, but the venue released a statement revealing he had been hospitalized “for medical reasons.” According to his manager Tony Conway, the 62-year-old singer suffered from a dangerously low sodium count and extremely high blood pressure—a potentially life-threatening combination that required immediate medical attention and further testing.
Though Chesnutt’s band still played the show without him, the singer had to cancel his next scheduled performance at the One Portales Wine, Beer and Music Festival in New Mexico. Chesnutt released a heartfelt apology through his management team, promising to make it up to fans in both cities.
“Mark wants to apologize to his fans… and hopes to come back to both cities in the very near future,” said Conway.
A History of Health Battles
This isn’t Chesnutt’s first encounter with serious health issues. Over the past few years, he has endured:
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Emergency back surgery in 2023 after suffering from a fractured spine
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A heart health scare in June 2024, which required emergency quadruple bypass surgery
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A decades-long battle with alcohol addiction, which he publicly opened up about in 2025, revealing that he nearly died before getting sober in November 2023
These battles have cast a shadow over the once-tireless touring artist, but they’ve also revealed the depth of his strength and resilience.
Still Standing, Still Singing
Despite all of this, Mark Chesnutt has remained committed to his music. According to his official tour schedule, his next show is planned for October 22 at the Blue Gate Performing Arts Center in Shipshewana, Indiana. His tour dates stretch as far ahead as February 2026, proving that the fire within him hasn’t gone out.
A Community of Support
Fans across the country are sending love, prayers, and messages of encouragement. Many remember Chesnutt as the man whose music defined the ‘90s country sound—a time when his voice filled every honky-tonk and radio dial from coast to coast. He gave us No. 1 hits, heartfelt ballads, and even a controversial cover of “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” which he later admitted he regretted recording.
But today, the focus isn’t on chart positions or regrets. It’s on healing, survival, and gratitude.