Amid Cancer Battle, Lady A’s Charles Kelley Sings Powerful Cover Of Tim McGraw’s “Live Like You Were Dying”
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Just weeks after sharing his cancer diagnosis, Lady A’s Charles Kelley performed a song about making the most out of life and treating every second like it’s your last.
Lady A (comprised of members Hillary Scott, Dave Haywood, and Kelley) performed at the Country Music Hall of Fame’s Medallion Ceremony on Sunday (October 18). They delivered a tribute to Modern Era inductee Tim McGraw.
The trio covered one of the most emotional songs in his catalog, “Live Like You Were Dying.” The track was written by Tim Nichols and Craig Wiseman, and was released by McGraw in 2004.
It’s told from the perspective of a man whose friend receives a devastating diagnosis. This compels him to pack his days with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, expressing that everyone should get the chance to “live like they are dying.”
Although the song wasn’t written about him specifically, it’s often associated with McGraw’s father, MLB star Tug McGraw, who died of cancer in January 2004. He was only 59 years old.
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Considering Charles Kelley’s recent diagnosis, it hit extra hard to hear him take the lead on “Live Like You Were Dying” when Lady A covered it at the CMHOF. We imagine there wasn’t a dry eye in sight by the time they finished singing.
A video of the trio’s performance surfaced on social media after the ceremony, and you can watch it below. Although it may be a good idea to grab a few tissues before you press “play.”
What Type Of Cancer Is Lady A Singer Charles Kelley Battling?
In a video he posted with his wife, Cassie, on September 29, Lady A’s Charles Kelley announced he’s battling a “rare” form of blood cancer. He was diagnosed with multiple myeloma.
The Mayo Clinic explains that multiple myeloma develops in plasma cells, which then accumulate in the affected patient’s bone marrow. Symptoms of multiple myeloma include bone pain, weak or easily broken bones, and shortness of breath.
In his video, Kelley said he learned about his diagnosis after suffering some seemingly random rib fractures. This prompted his doctors to run some bloodwork, and that’s when they discovered the cancer.
Despite his diagnosis, Kelley is optimistic, telling his fans he wants to continue working as long as he can. “I feel confident we’re going to get through it,” he said.
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After singing for Tim McGraw’s CMHOF induction, Kelley reflected on how meaningful it was to perform “Live Like You Were Dying” that night. First, he thanked his wife, Cassie, saying she was his “rock” and “biggest supporter” throughout the evening.
“She’s been through all the emotions these past few weeks as we’ve navigated our new normal,” Kelley wrote.
He continued, saying,”I know this journey for us is gonna be as much mentally taxing as it will be physical. I couldn’t get through it without you my love!”
The Lady A singer also thanked McGraw and complimented his speech. He ended his message by writing, “Moments like last night make it worth all the powering through it days!“
You can read Kelley’s entire post and see some photos from his night at the CMHOF below. He, his wife Cassie, their sons, and his bandmates will all be in our continued prayers.
