Veteran country music star Ray Stevens is recovering after a recent fall that left him with a serious neck injury.
Stevens sustained a broken neck after falling on Sunday (March 29), prompting a brief hospitalization in the Nashville area before he was discharged to continue recovery at home, his rep confirmed to Rolling Stone. According to a press statement, doctors have advised him to wear a neck brace for approximately four weeks as a precaution. Despite the severity of the injury, he remains “fully mobile” and “in good spirits” while recuperating.
The incident comes as Stevens prepares to release his forthcoming album, Favorites Old & New, due Friday, April 10 via Curb Records. “I had a lot of fun creating this album, Favorites Old & New,” Stevens said in a statement. “It really does contain a few of my favorite old songs as well as favorite new ones penned by some talented writers. I just hope Ray Stevens fans enjoy it as much as Ray Stevens!”
The project features renditions of classics such as “The Look of Love,” “It Had to Be You,” and “Come Rain or Come Shine,” all delivered in his signature style. It also introduces new material, including “I Guess You’ve Never Been in Love With the Moon,” “Moving Out Is Easier Than Moving On,” and “Time Machine.”
This latest health setback follows earlier concerns in July 2025, when Stevens experienced a minor heart attack and underwent surgery.
A Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Stevens is widely celebrated for his versatility, blending humor and social commentary in hits ranging from the chart-topping novelty song “The Streak” to the pointed and reflective “Mr. Businessman.”
The 87-year-old released his most recent album, Say Whut?, in March 2025, and recently unveiled his new single, “Savannah,” this past February.
