Country singer Hal Ketchum has passed away at age 67. His wife Andrea confirmed the “Small Town Saturday Night” singer died on Tuesday (Nov. 24) from complications related to dementia.
“With great sadness and grief, we announce that Hal passed away peacefully last night at home due to complications of Dementia,” she wrote. “May his music live on forever in your hearts and bring you peace.”
With great sadness and grief we announce that Hal passed away peacefully last night at home due to complications of Dementia. May his music live on forever in your hearts and bring you peace. Andrea
Posted by Hal Ketchum on Tuesday, November 24, 2020
Born April 9, 1953, Ketchum grew up in New York City. But much like Jerry Jeff Walker, he migrated to Austin, Texas where he began a singing career. In the late 1980s, Ketchum finally made it to country music’s home in Nashville where he continued exploring his music.
During his almost four decade career, Ketchum released a total of 11 studio albums. Some of his greatest hits included “Small Town Saturday Night,” “Pass the Point of Rescue,” and “Hearts Are Gonna Roll.” He continued to play and record until 2019. Over the course of his career, at least 17 of Ketchum’s songs made the Billboard country charts.
Hal Ketchum Was Diagnosed with Dementia
According to People Magazine, Ketchum officially retired from music in 2019. Doctors diagnosed the country artist with both dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. Ketchum’s wife Andrea spoke for him and discussed the illness in a statement.
“I know everyone is wondering why there are no future tour dates, and speculations as to the reason. Our family would like to share the cause for this,” Andrea said in a statement. “Unfortunately, Hal is suffering from Alzheimer’s/ Dementia. He has been battling this for some time now, but because of his love for his fans, he continued performing as long as it was possible.”
“Dementia is an exhausting and confusing illness and now it’s time for Hal to stay home with loved ones,” she continued. “Hal is otherwise healthy and happy, enjoying time with his family and friends. We all deeply appreciate how much love that you all have for Hal and how much his music means to you!”
Ketchum is the latest noteworthy country musician to pass away in 2020. Chris Stapleton may have said it best. Musicians like Ketchum will “live on” in the music they shared.
