Oley, PA – Country music icon Ronnie McDowell was rushed to the hospital over the weekend after suffering a mini stroke mid-performance at the Summer Solstice Music Festival in Oley, Pennsylvania.
The 75-year-old artist, known for classic hits like “Older Women” and “The King is Gone,” began noticeably slurring his speech while performing on Saturday. According to WKRN Nashville, McDowell had completed just three or four songs when his tour manager pulled him off stage, concerned for his health.
Backstage, McDowell reportedly told his team that he wasn’t feeling well and feared he may be having a stroke. He was immediately taken for medical evaluation.
A representative confirmed to Page Six on Monday that McDowell did suffer a minor stroke but is now “doing much better” and undergoing additional tests before returning home to Nashville.
Family Update and Support
McDowell’s son, Tyler Dean McDowell, flew to Pennsylvania to be by his father’s side and has been sharing updates with fans via Facebook.
“Dad is alert and waiting on an MRI,” Tyler wrote in an initial post. Later, he added, “Brought Dad some Popcorners and a Kombucha—snacks he likes. He was so excited, like a kid in a candy store.”
Tyler thanked fans for their concern and asked for continued prayers, while also requesting privacy as the family navigates the recovery process.
“I know you’re all concerned. I promise, no one is more worried than I am,” he shared. “Please understand this is an incredibly stressful time. If there’s anything that needs to be shared, I promise we will.”
He closed his message with a heartfelt appeal: “If you can, pray.”
An Enduring Career
Ronnie McDowell has been a beloved figure in country music for over four decades, first rising to fame in 1977 with his Elvis Presley tribute, “The King is Gone.” He went on to score multiple chart-topping singles and has remained a staple of the genre through consistent touring and recording.
McDowell’s team has not yet announced whether upcoming performances will be postponed, but fans and fellow musicians have flooded social media with messages of support for the longtime performer.
