By Brian Lindner, PennLive.com | Justin Moore has joined the list of country music stars stepping away from the stage to focus on their health. He made that announcement on Monday, becoming the seventh artist to take time off this year.
Three artists announced they were going on hiatus to deal with mental health issues, and one left the stage to ensure a safe pregnancy. Another big star didn’t specifically mention mental health, but made it clear that he was worn down by life on the road.
The following is a look at the talented young performers who have walked away for now:
Taylor Holder
Holder recently announced that he is stepping away from the stage.
“To my fans, friends, and everyone who planned to come see these shows, this is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make, but I need to cancel my upcoming shows,” he wrote on Instagram. “Over the past several months, I’ve been in a constant struggle with my mental health in ways that I can no longer ignore. I’ve tried for a while now to put my head down and just push through this and give everything I have to the music and the people who support me, but truthfully, I’ve reached my limit right now and I need to take a step back and focus on getting healthy.
“I’m doing everything I’ve ever dreamed of and I still feel so lonely, so unfulfilled,” he continued. “Performing for you guys is the greatest privilege of my life , and this decision was not made lightly. I know many of you made plans, spent money, and were looking to these nights together. And I’m deeply sorry for the disappointment this causes.”
Holder, 28, had a handful of shows remaining in May, one in June and one in November.
“I’m taking this time to rest, seek support, and reconnect with myself away from the pressure and pace of touring,” he wrote. “My hope is that this break will allow me to return stronger, healthier, and able to give you guys the performances you deserve.
“Thank you for your patience, compassion and continued support,” Holder added. “It means more than you’ll ever know. Please take care of yourselves and each other. Talk to y’all soon.”
Fans and even fellow musicians were quick to respond.
“Man lifting you up in prayer right now!” Brandon Lake replied. “That the spirit of panic would break and God would flood your heart and mind with peace. Recognize (the lie), Replace (with truth), and Repeat … has helped me a ton when I’ve battled mentally. Love you dude and believing for a quick shift.”
“The strongest man I know,” Zoey Aune replied. “I know I love you so much and will be here for you no matter what.”
Randall King . . .
. . . . . . . . . .
Go here to read the full list (so far):
https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/justin-moore-is-the-7th-country-star-to-step-away-this-year-here-s-the-full-list/
Photo: J.R. Runnels with Justin Moore
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1502249127923107&set=pb.100044141018722.-2207520000&type=3
