Country Star Says He ‘Died Twice’ During Health Ordeal: ‘No Heartbeat At All’

Country singer Phil Vassar underwent a life-changing health struggle recently—literally coming back from the dead.

The 62-year-old opened up about the ordeal during a recent interview with Taste of Country , first noting that he is doing well, saying, "I feel great." Vassar then went into detail about how he "literally died twice in early 2023," as described by the publication on YouTube .

Vassar had a heart attack as a result of genetic heart disease, with a stroke following three days later.

"I dropped dead. I was dead for 30 minutes a couple of times. No heartbeat. No heartbeat at all," he shared.

At the time, the country singer was on tour with singer Deana Carter shortly before it happened, and he said that he didn't feel well at the time but was working hard to stay healthy. According to Vassar, his doctor said, "You had no chance. You were gonna die, you just had bad genetics."

Vassar's determination to live healthily might've helped him survive the situation, and thankfully, Vassar was at home with someone who quickly called for help after the heart attack.

Recalling what happened after medical professionals got there, Vassar said: "They brought me back. They had to shock me 11 times and cracked some ribs. Broke my ribs. But I don't remember any of that. But they did a heck of a job getting me back, you know?"

The "Just Another Day In Paradise" crooner already seems to be feeling better, sharing that he's touring again and that he feels great. But he stated that he's taking it at a slower pace, saying, "I'm not pounding it like I used to. I think I did 100 shows that one year ... the year I croaked."

Vassar is currently touring in the U.S. throughout the summer and fall, with his last 2024 date in late November.

Next: Watch Phil Vassar and Vince Gill's Energetic Live Performance of "Liza Jane" and Try Not to Start Dancing