Country musician Phil Vassar says he 'died twice' amid 2023 health scares

Serious health scares are always a jarring experience for any family, but when they bring a loved one close to death, they can be truly devastating.

Such was the case of beloved country music notable Phil Vassar, who has come forward to describe what he says happened when he “died twice” during an emergency event last year, as Fox News reports.

Heart attack hits first

The renowned singer/songwriter gave an interview to Taste of Country in which he recalled the alarming scenes that unfolded back in the early part of 2023.

According to Vassar, he suffered both a heart attack and a stroke, scenarios that ultimately prove fatal all too often.

He noted that he had begun to feel poorly while on a Christmas tour with fellow musician Deana Carter and it was soon after that he experienced the cardiac event.

Noting that he does not remember “any of it,” Vassar said that, luckily, someone was at home with him at the time and called 911 for emergency assistance.

He reportedly needed to be shocked back to rhythm 11 times, and during the resuscitation process, several of his ribs were cracked.

Stroke follows next

A mere three days following his heart attack, as Vassar recalls, he suffered a stroke while still hospitalized.

Offering recollections of the aftermath, Vassar recounted, “They iced me down and they said I was going, 'Why was it so cold?' Cause you're on ice, you know.”

The situation, he says, was in fact quite dire, adding, “So it was a weird thing, but I dropped dead. I was dead for 30 minutes a couple of times – died. No heartbeat. No heartbeat at all.”

Renewed outlook on life emerges

Clearly grateful for his new lease on life, Vassar mused, “Thank goodness for medicine,” and he has gone on to give audiences his best in 100 subsequent shows.

“When you go through something as life changing as a heart attack, you become more introspective and sentimental. I want to put out music that reflects that,” he added, while also touting a newfound sense of energy and an exuberant readiness to “throw down” that fans everywhere are sure to welcome.