Songwriter Nat Myers Has Stage IV Cancer. He Just Wants to Play His Next Show

Nat Myers, a blues musician whose recent album Yellow Peril was produced by Dan Auerbach, has been confronted with a severe health challenge: a diagnosis of Stage IV intimal sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer affecting the heart and pulmonary artery. This revelation came unexpectedly in early 2025 during a tour, when a persistent and worsening back pain escalated into a medical emergency requiring prolonged hospitalization.

Myers’ journey to diagnosis began with symptoms he initially attributed to the rigors of touring—the physical toll of constant travel, subpar accommodations, and heavy equipment. However, the pain intensified and was soon accompanied by respiratory difficulties, prompting his girlfriend to insist on urgent medical evaluation. The diagnosis was grim; doctors estimated a very limited prognosis due to the tumor’s location and severity.

Before his diagnosis, Myers’ life was deeply intertwined with music and poetry, shaped by his experiences growing up as an Asian American in Kentucky. Influenced by blues legends like Charlie Patton and a foundational interest in poetry, Myers’ work blends storytelling with rich musical traditions. His 2023 album Yellow Peril reflects his perspective on social injustice and the heightened anti-Asian sentiment exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite his career’s promising trajectory—marked by tours across the U.S. and Europe alongside artists such as Parker Millsap and Charley Crockett—Myers faced sudden health setbacks. His diagnosis led to a shift from live performances to intensive chemotherapy treatments, with six rounds requiring extended hospital stays. The financial burden of this care is formidable, particularly as Myers, like many independent musicians, lacked health insurance prior to his illness.

Myers’ experience underscores significant systemic issues within the music industry, where many artists operate as independent contractors without access to employer-provided health benefits. The rising costs of insurance and medical care, exacerbated by policy changes that reduced Affordable Care Act subsidies, leave many musicians vulnerable. Organizations like Music Health Alliance work to mitigate these challenges by assisting artists in navigating insurance options, but rising premiums continue to pose obstacles.

Throughout his treatment, Myers has maintained a public dialogue about his condition, both to demystify the realities of rare cancers and to combat misinformation that often circulates online regarding alternative treatments. He has expressed frustration at the prevalence of unscientific claims promoted by some public figures, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based medical care.

Upon returning to the stage following chemotherapy, Myers encountered a complex mix of support and discomfort, as fans often approach him with prayers and sympathy that can overshadow his role as a musician. Nevertheless, he remains committed to his craft, viewing his music as a vital part of his identity and recovery process.

Myers also credits advancements in medical technology, such as AI-driven analysis from companies like Tempus, with helping tailor his treatment plan. This intersection of technology and personalized medicine offers a glimpse into evolving cancer care, particularly for rare diagnoses.

The story of Nat Myers highlights the precarious balance many artists face between creative passion and the realities of health and financial insecurity. His determination to continue performing amidst daunting odds brings attention to broader conversations about healthcare access and support systems for musicians in America. While the future remains uncertain, Myers’ resolve to share his journey and music speaks to the enduring spirit of artists navigating adversity.