AUSTIN, Texas -- Asleep at the Wheel's lead singer, Ray Benson, has tested positive for coronavirus. The 69-year-old shared the news Tuesday morning on his personal Facebook page, saying, in part, “Well folks, the bad news I've contracted the corona virus!! Been feeling tired for about 10 days!”
The Texas country music icon goes on to say he initially went to the doctor on March 21, but due to no tests being available, he returned home with mild symptoms. After he continued to experience symptoms of fatigue and head pain, Benson says he returned to the doctor and was able to get tested. Tuesday morning, he found out he tested positive.
Exactly one week ago, Benson hosted an online fundraiser to generate money for musicians affected by COVID-19. The five-hour live-streamed event was called 'Til Further Notice, an online concert which replaced Willie Nelson's canceled Luck Reunion. Thousands of people tuned in to the show and soaked in Benson's comic relief and the sounds of musicians performing from their respective living rooms. In addition to his role in helping to raise more than $170,000 by the end of the night, Benson also played a role in bringing hope to people tuning in from all around the world.
The Asleep at the Wheel frontman has taken the lead on numerous benefits like this over the years. Every year, the singer's annual event, Ray Benson's Birthday Bash, raises thousands of dollars for the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians. The way he celebrates his birthdays is a great example of how Benson feels about the Texas music scene, and the success of the event is a great example of how the Texas music scene feels about Benson. The country star has contributed to crafting the supportive reputation that the Texas music scene is so well known for, and now support is flooding in for him in return.
Within two hours after he shared the news of his diagnosis on Facebook, Benson’s post received nearly 450 comments and almost 400 shares. "Get Well" wishes have poured in from all parts of the world. The good news from the singer is that he currently doesn’t have the usual symptoms like a cough or fever. While he'll be hoping for the best, Benson told his Facebook friends "I'll be ok sure do miss playin music and seein everyone!"