Country music icon updates fans after heart attack: ‘Got a lot of work I want to do’

The country music world has been praying for legendary singer Ray Stevens since he revealed that he was hospitalized in Nashville after a heart attack back on July 4.

And fans recently good some good news as the 86-year-old Country Music Hall of Famer continues his recovery.

“Ray Stevens is pleased to share that his recovery from the heart attack he suffered in July is progressing very positively,” a post to Stevens X account read. “He is doing well following the live-saving procedures that took place earlier this year. Stevens remains upbeat and active, now back working full-time in his recording studio as he regains strength and continues forward with confidence.”

The statement included a quote from Stevens that read, “I’m trying to get strong enough to continue performing, but in the meantime, I’ve got a lot of work I want to do in the recording studio, so I intend to focus my attention there for now.”

Stevens actually announced heading into 2025 that he planned retire, but he backtracked on that before suffering the heart attack.

The announcement on X provided an exciting note for fans about his studio work.

“With renewed energy and a creative spark driving him, Stevens is preparing for the release of his forthcoming single, ‘Savannah,’ which will be available via Curb Records on February 12, 2026,” it read. “Stevens remains optimistic as health and strength continue to build.”

Stevens was admitted to the hospital back on July 4 after complaining of chest pain. A heart catheterization found that he had a heart attack. He then underwent surgery to correct issues that led to the heart attack.

The comedic songwriter and singer has been performing since 1957.

Stevens was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2019. He is also a member of the Grand Ole Opry, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Georgia Music Hall of Fame and the Christian Music Hall of Fame.