Mark Chesnutt undergoes emergency heart surgery and cancels shows

Rick Diamond/Getty Images for Country Thunder

Country singer-songwriter Mark Chesnutt is recovering after emergency heart surgery.

According to a June 18 post on Chesnutt’s Instagram page, he was experiencing heart problems and was hospitalized on Sunday. He underwent emergency bypass surgery and is currently recovering. Due to the surgery and recovery, Chesnutt also had to cancel some upcoming shows.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the cancellation of my upcoming shows,” Chesnutt said in his statement on social media. “I send my love and gratitude to my family and friends, the band and the fans for their understanding, prayers and support and look forward to seeing you all again soon at a honky-tonk near you.”

A spokesman for Chesnutt did not immediately respond to BillboardPlease leave a comment.

Chesnutt was scheduled to perform in Louisiana and Texas on June 21 and 22 and take part in Dauphin’s Country Fest in Dauphin, Manitoba, Canada on June 30.

“Dauphin’s Countryfest is extremely saddened by the news that Mark Chesnutt will not be on our stage this summer,” the festival said in a statement on social media. “We continue to send healing vibes to Mark and his family during his recovery. Our team is working diligently to secure another act for our wonderful Sunday program and will make an announcement as soon as possible.”

Chesnutt’s official website currently lists upcoming shows starting in September.

Chesnutt has scored eight No. 1 Country Airplay hits on the Billboard charts, including multi-week chart-toppers “It’s a Little Too Late,” “Brother Jukebox” and “I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing.” The Beaumont, Texas native has also forged his enduring career with songs like “Blame It On Texas,” “Old Flames Have New Names” and “It Sure Is Monday.”

Below you will find his statement about his operation and the show cancellations: