Robert Earl Keen s Longtime Guitarist Received an ALS Diagnosis. Texas Music Is Rallying

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Published: 2026-09-28T18:55:37.316Z • Permanent link

Robert Earl Keen's longtime guitarist, John C. Nettles, has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a debilitating neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Nettles, who has been a vital component of Keen's band since the 1980s, was first diagnosed with ALS in 2022, and his condition has been worsening steadily since then. Keen has been keeping Nettles' condition private, but the news has finally come to light, and the Texas music community is rallying around him.

Nettles' diagnosis has sent shockwaves through the music world, with fans and fellow musicians alike expressing their support for the veteran musician. Keen has been a mainstay of the Texas music scene for decades, known for his poignant songwriting and distinctive voice. His music has been praised by critics and fans alike, and he has built a loyal following over the years. Nettles, meanwhile, has been an integral part of Keen's live shows, providing a steady stream of guitar work and backing vocals.

The news of Nettles' diagnosis has also sparked a wider conversation about the impact of ALS on the music industry. According to the ALS Association, there are currently over 60,000 people living with ALS in the United States, with a growing number of cases being diagnosed each year. The disease is often misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed, particularly in the early stages, which can make it difficult for musicians and other high-energy professionals to come to terms with their diagnosis.

The diagnosis of ALS in Robert Earl Keen's longtime guitarist has significant implications for the music industry and beyond. For one thing, it highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of the disease, both within the music community and more broadly. Many musicians and artists are unaware of the risks of ALS, and the disease can be particularly challenging to manage, particularly in the later stages. As a result, Keen's band and other music organizations may need to adapt their touring and performance schedules to accommodate Nettles' needs.

Furthermore, the diagnosis of ALS has significant implications for the research community and the development of new treatments for the disease. According to the ALS Association, there are currently no treatments available to slow or halt the progression of ALS, although researchers are working on a number of promising new therapies. The music industry, with its strong focus on creativity and innovation, may be uniquely positioned to contribute to the development of new treatments for ALS, particularly through the use of music therapy and other forms of music-based intervention.

The diagnosis of ALS in Robert Earl Keen's longtime guitarist is part of a larger pattern of growing awareness and concern about the impact of neurodegenerative diseases on the music industry. In recent years, there have been a number of high-profile cases of musicians and other artists struggling with conditions such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the need for greater understanding and support for those affected. The music industry's response to these challenges has been mixed, with some organizations and artists expressing a strong commitment to supporting those affected, while others have been more slow to respond.