MT VERNON, Ky (April 23, 2026): Country music artist JD Shelburne performed a private concert for patients and their families at Rockcastle Regional Hospital.
The Kentucky native played a 90-minute show Thursday afternoon for dozens of patients on ventilators and their families.
“I’ve played hospitals before. My first gig was in a nursing home in 2007,” Shelburne said.
Lora Beth McKee of Rockcastle Regional Hospital said she reached out to Shelburne’s team to arrange the performance.
“I reached out to his team and they were just fantastic. Willing and ready to come and perform. They have been wonderful to work with from beginning to end,” McKee said.
Patient Tissy Hodge said the performance felt personal.
“As I was listening, it was like he is family. He talks about Kentucky being his home,” Hodge said.
Patient Bree Branham said the music had a therapeutic effect.
“I don’t know it reaches your soul maybe. It’s deep,” Branham said.
Shelburne grew up on a Kentucky tobacco farm and discovered the guitar while a student at the University of Kentucky.
“I just love meeting people. I think music heals, being able to play before the folks for 90 minutes,” Shelburne said.
Shelburne recently played the Grand Ole Opry and has recorded 7 albums. He has millions of followers. He performed in Las Vegas before the hospital show and will perform at the Kentucky Derby next week.
“We’re excited to share music and lift people’s souls,” Shelburne said.
Shelburne met with patients and took pictures with fans after the performance.
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