Just weeks after revealing his cancer diagnosis, Lady A’s Charles Kelley took the stage to perform a song about embracing life and making every moment count.
Lady A, featuring Hillary Scott, Dave Haywood, and Kelley, performed at the Country Music Hall of Fame’s Medallion Ceremony on Sunday, October 18. The group honored Modern Era inductee Tim McGraw with a special musical tribute.
For the occasion, the trio chose “Live Like You Were Dying,” one of the most moving songs in McGraw’s catalog. Written by Tim Nichols and Craig Wiseman, the track was released by McGraw in 2004.
The song follows a man whose friend receives a devastating diagnosis, prompting him to fill his remaining time with extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Its central message encourages everyone to embrace life fully and get the chance to “live like they are dying.”
While the song was not written specifically about McGraw, many listeners associate it with his father, Tug McGraw, the MLB star who died of cancer in January 2004. He was just 59 years old.
With Charles Kelley’s recent cancer diagnosis, hearing him take the lead on “Live Like You Were Dying” during Lady A’s tribute at the CMHOF carried an even deeper emotional weight. By the time the trio finished their performance, it was easy to imagine many in the audience had been moved to tears.
Footage of the performance appeared on social media following the ceremony, giving fans a chance to watch the heartfelt moment below. You might want to have a few tissues handy before pressing play.
What Type of Cancer Has Lady A Singer Charles Kelley Been Diagnosed With?
On September 29, Lady A’s Charles Kelley revealed in a video alongside his wife, Cassie, that he had been diagnosed with a “rare” type of blood cancer. The singer has multiple myeloma.
According to The Mayo Clinic, multiple myeloma is a cancer that begins in plasma cells, which can build up in the bone marrow. Common symptoms include bone pain, bones that become weak or fracture easily, and shortness of breath.
Kelley explained in the video that his diagnosis came after he experienced several rib fractures that seemed to occur unexpectedly. His doctors ordered blood tests to investigate, and the results revealed the cancer.
Even after receiving the diagnosis, Kelley has remained hopeful. He told fans he intends to keep working for as long as he is able, adding, “I feel confident we’re going to get through it.”
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.
Source: Various
