Ray Stevens Breaks Neck in March 29 Fall, Cancels Nashville Shows, New Album Still Set for April 10

87-year-old country singer Ray Stevens broke his neck on March 29, 2026, and is now recovering at home. He will wear a neck brace for about four weeks.
By Newsroom | Country Music, Health News, Nashville |

UPDATE: Injury and Recovery Details Emerge

Ray Stevens, the 87-year-old country music icon, is currently recuperating at home following a serious fall that resulted in a broken neck. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, March 29, led to a brief hospitalization in the Nashville area. Medical professionals have advised Stevens to wear a neck brace for approximately four weeks as part of his recovery process.

Album Release Proceeds Amidst Injury

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Despite the severity of the injury, Stevens is reportedly “in good spirits” and remains “fully mobile”. His team has communicated updates, emphasizing his resilience and positive outlook.

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Amidst his recovery, Stevens is slated to release his new album, "Favorites Old & New," on Friday, April 10th. The forthcoming 13-track collection, which blends classic standards with new material, is still expected to launch as scheduled. This marks another significant artistic endeavor for the veteran performer.

Past Health Concerns

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This recent injury follows a previous health scare for Stevens. Last July, the singer underwent heart surgery after experiencing chest pains. At the time, he had expressed a desire to slow down his work schedule.

FLASH: Public Reaction and Support

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News of Stevens' injury has prompted an outpouring of support from fans worldwide, who have sent messages of concern and well wishes via social media. The artist, known for his humor and hits like 'The Streak' and 'Everything Is Beautiful', has a long-standing career spanning decades.

Impact on Performances

As a result of his injury, Stevens has been forced to cancel scheduled performances at his CabaRay Showroom in West Nashville during his recovery period. He had previously returned to performing at the venue in December to promote his album "Say What?" after an earlier recuperation.

UPDATE: Background:Ray Stevens, a Grammy-winning artist and Country Music...

Background:Ray Stevens, a Grammy-winning artist and Country Music Hall of Famer, has enjoyed a career in music since the late 1950s. His work is characterized by a blend of country, pop, and novelty songs, often infused with humor. His recent fall and broken neck, occurring just before a new album release and following a past heart surgery, highlight a period of personal health challenges for the enduring performer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened to Ray Stevens recently on March 29, 2026?
Ray Stevens, 87, broke his neck after a fall on Sunday, March 29, 2026. He was in a Nashville hospital briefly and is now recovering at home. Doctors say he needs to wear a neck brace for about four weeks.
Q: Will Ray Stevens' new album "Favorites Old & New" still come out on April 10, 2026?
Yes, his new album, "Favorites Old & New," is still planned to be released on Friday, April 10, 2026. The 13-track album will have both old and new songs. His team confirmed the release will go ahead as scheduled.
Q: Why did Ray Stevens cancel his shows at CabaRay Showroom in Nashville?
Ray Stevens canceled his shows at his CabaRay Showroom in West Nashville because he broke his neck. He needs time to recover from the injury. He cannot perform while wearing a neck brace for the next few weeks.
Q: How is Ray Stevens doing after his broken neck injury?
Ray Stevens is reportedly "in good spirits" and can still move around well, even with a broken neck. He is recovering at home in the Nashville area. Fans have sent many messages of support to him.
Q: Did Ray Stevens have other health problems before this neck injury?
Yes, Ray Stevens had heart surgery in July 2025 after he felt chest pains. He had just returned to performing in December 2025 after that recovery. This neck injury is his second health issue in less than a year.