Mel Tillis Recovering From Heart Surgery

Country legend Mel Tillis is recovering in Nashville after undergoing heart surgery.

The singer's daughter, fellow country star Pam Tillis, broke the news in a press release Monday (March 10). Her statement follows:

"Over the weekend, Daddy required a routine heart procedure.  He's doing fantastic and is expected to make a full recovery.  In typical Mel Tillis fashion, he's already cutting up and cracking jokes with the nurses.  Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated."

The 81-year-old Country Music Hall of Fame member has scored a slew of hits as both a songwriter and a performer. Artists who have cut his songs include Kenny Rogers ('Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town'), George Strait ('Thoughts of a Fool') and Ricky Skaggs ('Honey, Open That Door').

Tillis' own hits include 'I Believe in You,' 'Southern Rains' and 'Coca-Cola Cowboy.' He is also an actor, appearing in films including 'Every Which Way But Loose,' 'Smokey and the Bandit II' and 'The Cannonball Run.'

BMI named Tillis the Songwriter of the Decade for two decades, and in 2012, President Obama presented him with the National Medal of Arts.

For more information on Mel Tillis, visit his official website.

The Boot extends our best wishes for a full and speedy recovery.