Renowned country music legend Willie Nelson, at the age of 90, continues to tour the United States with his band, the Nelson Family Band, showcasing his enduring commitment to his musical craft. However, last year, he faced a concerning health incident that affected both him and his band.
During a tour, Nelson had to make a tough decision to cancel their headlining gig at the Jazz Fest. It was discovered that a member of the Willie Nelson Family Band had tested positive for COVID-19. Surprisingly, it was later revealed that it was Nelson himself who had contracted the virus.
Awakening in the middle of the night on his tour bus, Nelson struggled to breathe, facing a terrifying ordeal. A rapid PCR test confirmed his fears: he had indeed contracted COVID-19. Given his age, the situation was dire due to his vulnerability to the virus.
To aid in his recovery, Willie’s wife, Annie, shared the measures they took. “I had a nebulizer on the bus. I started everything I could at that point, including Paxlovid. He had the monoclonal antibodies. He had steroids,” she told Country Music Television. They transformed their home in Spicewood, Texas into a makeshift hospital, enlisting an entire medical unit to monitor his recovery.
The road to recovery was challenging, but after six days, Nelson found the strength to return to the stage. Just two weeks later, he resumed his touring schedule with shows in New Braunfels, Texas. His resilience and determination were awe-inspiring.
Throughout this ordeal, Annie admitted that there were moments when she was unsure if he would make it. Recalling those uncertain times, she said, “There were a couple of times when I wasn’t sure he was going to make it.”
However, true to his nature, Nelson maintained his trademark wit, stating, “COVID ain’t nothing to laugh at, that’s for sure.” His ability to find humor even in the face of adversity is a testament to his strength of character.
Following the shocking COVID scare, Willie Nelson and his Family Band continued touring, demonstrating their unwavering spirit. In September, they attended the Farm Aid 2022 Music Festival in Raleigh, North Carolina, where they were joined on stage by an incredible lineup of artists, including John Mellencamp, Margo Price, Chris Stapleton, and Sheryl Crow, among others.
Not only is Willie Nelson an icon of country music, but he is also an inspiration to many for his resilience and determination. Despite the challenges he faced, he remains committed to his passion, bringing joy and music to audiences across the country.