Joe Ely, a beloved country music singer-songwriter from Texas, recently shared with fans that he has received some heartbreaking health news.
The 78-year-old shared the news on his official Facebook page that he has “recently been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease.”
“Together with his wife Sharon, Joe is sharing their journey — not to dwell in hardship, but to bring understanding, awareness, and hope through the healing power of music.”
The Amarillo, Texas native began his career in 1970, and while he made his name in country music he also performed with the likes of Bruce Springsteen, The Clash, Lyle Lovett and Guy Clark.
The heartbreaking news did come with an offering of good news from Ely and Sharon as they revealed that she recently found some of his old recordings that they plan to release.
“Our story is about how music continues to lift us up,” she said in the statement. “Revisiting Joe’s recordings and hearing them brought to life again has given him so much joy, and we want others to feel that same joy too.”
The statement also noted that while his life has changed, Joe “remains what he has always been: a brilliant musician, a storyteller, and a light in the world.
“With Sharon by his side, and the support of those who love him, Joe continues to share his music and his heart,” the statement added.
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