Willie Nelson, 91, receives standing ovation at first performance since health scare

Country music legend Willie Nelson returned to the stage on Thursday to a thunderous standing ovation after briefly stepping away from performing due to health concerns.

According to videos posted on social media, Nelson’s appearance at his annual Fourth of July Picnic event in Camden, New Jersey, was met with enthusiasm and love from fans.

“He’s bbaaacccckkkkk,” the singer wrote via Instagram, sharing footage of the crowd. 

As he sat on a stool, Nelson then launched into a set of his classic hits, including “On the Road Again,” “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” and “Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground.”

Additionally, he treated the audience to the debut performance of his new song “The Border.”

Nelson, 91, recently had to miss several shows at the Outlaw Music Festival due to “doctor’s orders.” 

He was set to kick off the tour on Friday, June 21, but hours before showtime, his decision not to appear was announced with a statement from his team on X, formerly Twitter.

“We regret to inform you that Willie Nelson is not feeling well and, per doctor’s orders, has been advised to rest for the next four days,” the statement read. “In the meantime, [Willie’s son] Lukas Nelson and the Family Band will perform a special set to include Willie’s classics and other songs.”

The statement concluded: “He is expected to make a quick recovery and join the Outlaw Music Festival tour next week.”

Bob Dylan, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, and Celisse were the other tour headliners in the lineup and performed as planned. 

Despite occasional health setbacks, the Grammy-winning artist remains committed to performing.

In 2019, he postponed shows due to a “breathing problem,” but bounced back after “resting and getting better.”

When reflecting on the longevity of his career, Nelson gives all credit to his positive mindset. 

“I appreciate everything I get and I’ve been lucky,” he told Forbes in April 2023. “I’m a little bit amazed that I’m first of all still here, [And] I’m having a good time. I’m enjoying the singing, I think it’s good for me. People come up, right away, pay some money to come hear me or somebody sing, and it’s a great energy exchange out there and I look forward to it every time.”

Last year, Nelson told AARP that he didn’t mind spending his big 90th milestone on the road.

“Working is really good for me, no matter what kind of show it is,” he said at the time.

When asked about retirement, he responded: “Jokingly, I retire after every tour.”

“But I’m always ready to go back again,” he continued. “I like the bus. I have everything I need on the bus. I never have to go into a hotel room anywhere. It’s not that bad.”