Merle Haggard Cancels Concerts Due to Respiratory Ailment

Merle Haggard has canceled 10 shows due to illness, but it's likely a chest infection and not anything more serious, say his reps.

When The Boot spoke to Merle just last week, he confirmed he had recently been sick but said it wasn't serious. He was excitedly planning the tour in support of his latest album, 'I Am What I Am.'

"I'm fine. I had a little walking pneumonia," Merle told The Boot. "It was one of those things where you have something in your chest and sinuses and you can't get rid of it, but I finally did."

Unfortunately, when the 73-year-old country legend was traveling outside of Salt Lake City, Utah, over the weekend, he began to feel congested and decided to head back home rather than begin the tour, which was slated to start September 15 in Anderson, Ind.

Merle has been extra cautious about seeking medical care whenever he suspects a respiratory ailment since he underwent lung surgery less than two years ago, after tests showed he had non-small cell lung cancer.

Reps said they expect Merle to recover and reschedule the concert dates soon.

We know Merle's fans join everyone at The Boot in wishing Merle the best and looking forward to his quick recovery!