Published: September 30, 2026 · 2:49 AM EDT
The 45-year-old singer says doctors discovered the rare blood cancer after tests prompted by several rib fractures and that he remains hopeful about treatment
Lady A singer Charles Kelley has revealed that he has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare form of blood cancer. Kelley shared the news on September 29 in a video alongside his wife, Cassie, explaining that the diagnosis followed a series of medical tests after he experienced several rib fractures.
Kelley said one of the blood tests eventually revealed the cancer. Multiple myeloma develops in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in bone marrow. Kelley has not publicly disclosed a stage or detailed prognosis, and no additional medical information beyond what he and his wife shared has been announced.
Despite the diagnosis, Kelley said he feels hopeful and intends to remain active professionally while undergoing treatment. He explained that he expects the first six months of treatment to allow him to continue working, although he acknowledged there will likely be difficult days.
“I feel really hopeful,” Kelley said while discussing the diagnosis. He added that sharing the news publicly helped him approach the situation in much the same way he has discussed his sobriety journey: taking things one day at a time and focusing on what he can control.
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Lady A — Kelley, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood — currently remain scheduled to begin their This Winter’s Night Tour on December 10. The run includes New York, Greensboro and two performances at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on December 21. The trio is also scheduled to appear on the Boots on the Water cruise in February 2027.
Kelley also confirmed that Lady A have a new record on the way, although further details about the project have not yet been announced. He said continuing to make music, spend time with his family and do the work he loves will remain important as treatment begins.
Cassie Kelley said the couple is grateful for the medical team caring for him in Nashville. Following the announcement, Kelley received public messages of support from fellow musicians including Martina McBride, Carly Pearce, Richard Marx, Jake Owen, Jordan Davis and Lady A bandmates Scott and Haywood.
Kelley, who celebrated four years of sobriety earlier this year, said the diagnosis represents another hurdle rather than an end to his work, adding that he remains confident about moving forward with treatment and continuing his life with Lady A and his family.
Watch Lady A’s official “Need You Now” music video, featuring Charles Kelley, below:
Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist
IMAGE CREDIT: Hodges Usry.
