Willie Nelson has been forced to miss the opening show of his joint tour with Bob Dylan “per doctor's orders.”
The 91-year-old singer was scheduled to kick off the Outlaw Music Festival Tour with the “Like a Rolling Stone” hitmaker in Atlanta, Georgia on Friday (June 23, 2024), but canceled the show along with other dates in Charlotte and Raleigh.
However, audiences will still be able to enjoy Willie's songs in concert, as his son, Lukas Nelson, will perform a “special set.”
A statement shared online read: “Willie Nelson has been feeling unwell and has been advised by his doctor to rest for the next four days.”
“He will recover quickly and will be joining the Outlaw Music Festival tour next week.
“Meanwhile, Lukas Nelson and the Family Band, along with several guests, will be performing a special set including some of Willie's classics and more.”
The “Blue Skies” singer recently admitted he's surprised his career has lasted this long.
When asked how he's managed to sustain such a long career, he said in December: [know] Neither. I have the energy and desire to do it…
“I haven't quit yet. I'm 90 years old now, so maybe I should quit.”
But Willie admitted he thinks about retirement often.
He said: “Every night I quit. Every time a tour ends I say that's it, but then I get the urge to go back.”
The 'On the Road Again' hitmaker still practices martial arts every day, which gives him “confidence”.
He added: “There's nothing to be worried about.”
Willie has long been a supporter of marijuana use, but earlier this year he revealed he had given up drinking and smoking in an effort to extend his life.
He told People magazine about his sobriety: “I'm sure it's added a few days to my life.”
Willie acknowledged that his hearing is “no longer at its best,” but he still feels young at heart.
He said, “I'm still having a good time.”