Country Music Legend Ronnie McDowell Hospitalized During Performance
Country music legend Ronnie McDowell was urgently taken to a hospital on Saturday night after he began slurring his words mid-performance at the Summer Solstice Music Festival in Oley, Pennsylvania.
According to WKRN, the 75-year-old singer was just “three or four songs” into his act when he started slurring and his words became incoherent. His tour manager reported to the station that he escorted McDowell offstage to check on his well-being.
At that moment, McDowell expressed to the manager, “No,” and mentioned he feared he might be experiencing a stroke. The report noted that McDowell remained hospitalized in Reading on Sunday as doctors conducted various tests.
McDowell’s son, Tyler Dean McDowell, an artist in his own right, shared updates on Facebook. “Just wanted to let everyone know—I arrived in Pennsylvania,” he posted on Sunday. “Ronnie Dean and I are in the room with Dad. He’s conversing with us, and we’re awaiting the MRI results. As soon as I know more, you all will too. Love Forever.”
Three hours later, Tyler offered some uplifting news. “2nd update: Brought Dad some Popcorners and Kombucha (his favorite snacks),” he shared. “Ronnie Dean brought his cozy shows, cherished brush, and Vietnam hat. Dad was thrilled with all of it — like a child in a candy store. Thought you might enjoy a little light-heartedness.”
Since his career launch in 1977, McDowell has charted over 30 songs in the top 40 of Billboard’s country music charts. His hits “Older Woman” and “You’re Gonna Ruin My Bad Reputation” both secured the top position. He also scored 11 more top 10 singles.
McDowell is famously known for “The King Is Gone,” his poignant tribute to Elvis Presley following Presley’s death in 1977, which became a cross-genre hit in both country and pop.
Fellow country singer Bobby Mackey expressed his support for McDowell on Sunday via Twitter. “Memorable show at #americashonkytonk back in the day,” he tweeted alongside a photo of McDowell performing on stage. “Sending healing prayers and thoughts to Ronnie McDowell.”