Caleb Klauder Recovering After Vocal Chord Surgery
When it comes to country music artists still making country music the right way, and doing it criminally under-the-radar in a selfless manner, Caleb Klauder might be at the top of the list. An essential member of the long-running and influential Foghorn Stringbad, and the leader of the Caleb Klauder Country Band, Caleb has revitalized the spirit of country music for so many crowds across the United States and Europe with his genuine, infectious, and natural love for song. Though mandolin could be considered his primary instrument, Klauder is steeped in the singing traditions of country, Cajun, folk, old time, and bluegrass that trace all the way back to the origins of the music, and can sing and blend harmonies in an authentic style as good as any.
That is why is was so alarming to hear that the long-time touring musician had developed vocal chord polyps from years of performing.
“Polyps are a common occurrence in performers ranging from opera singers to actors to public speakers,” Caleb said to his fans in a letter posted just before his surgery. “It seems the thing I love the most has brought me yet another big life challenge. But, I’m alive and happy and positive and ready to face the situation straight on and to go through the paces to recover successfully.”
On June 16th, Caleb went under the knife of Ear, Nose & Throat doctor James Thomas at Portland’s Emanuel Hospital. The prospect of surgery meant Caleb would not be able to speak for 10 to 14 days after his surgery, and would not be able to sing in performances for three months. “Already many of you know my situation and I have received tremendous support and love,” said Caleb. “I sincerely thank you all for your support. Truly it is my family and you all that keep me positive and moving forward. Thank you sincerely. Sing-to-you-soon”¦”
Saving Country Music is happy to report that Caleb’s surgery last Monday was successful. “I’m already home from surgery,” he wrote. “Feeling good but with a sore throat ( that’s normal). My son Elijah is with me and talking care of me … Things are looking good around here. Now, relaxing and silence some have been prescribed for a while.”
Though Caleb won’t be able to sing for a few months, since both his bands have other singers, Caleb will still be playing during his recovery, lending his equally-impressive guitar and mandolin skills to his respective projects, including a show as early as June 24th in Portland at the Spare Room Lounge. As hard as the surgery was, it will probably be an equal test of will for Caleb not to join his friends in harmony.
“Thanks for all of your support. I feel very lucky,” says Caleb.
And so are the rest of us for not losing one of independent country’s finest voices.
Photos by almostoutofgas.com
One of the last performances before his surgery:
June 23, 2014 @ 8:57 am
Hopefully he has a good recovery. I’ve been waiting on news about a new album from his Country Band. Really like both Western Country and Dangerous Mes and Poisonous Yous.
June 23, 2014 @ 9:35 am
Best wishes for your continued recovery, Caleb.
Very nice new clip from Foghorn Stringband, too! 🙂
June 23, 2014 @ 10:00 am
To me this his is the most authentic voice in country music. So glad to hear he is well.
Caleb Klauder Recovering After Vocal Chord Surgery | Quicksilver Productions
June 24, 2014 @ 10:32 am
[…] Last Monday, Caleb Klauder announced that he would be under going Vocal Chord surgery for Polyps. Kyle Coroneos, talks recovery and how Foghorn Stringband, and Caleb Klauder Country Band fans alike look forward to hearing this influential artist’s voice again soon. Read the full article here. […]
June 24, 2014 @ 11:06 am
Howdy friends. Thank you again for your support and your kind words. Its hard to express just how much love I feel from folks allover the place, many of whom I do not even know yet. I look forward to meeting you and talking with you soon.
Its been just over a week now since I had the surgery. I saw the doc on monday for a post op and things are looking good. I still have a long ways to go but the healing is on the right track. I can talk a bit now and that feels good, much easier than it did before the surgery, so that is another positive sign.
FYI, I am working on a new album and its almost done. Surgery has put a bump in the road but it’ll be released in the fall if everything goes smooth from here on out.
My sincere thanks to you all.
cheers,
caleb
June 24, 2014 @ 7:42 pm
Trigger – I was stoked to see an article about Caleb Klauder, despite the circumstances. Hands down one of my favorite artists, and now I see him posting on my newly found and favorite website!
Caleb – Sorry to hear about this fork in the road with the surgery, but of course best wishes on a speedy recovery. Possible new album in the fall…always enjoy new music from you and the bands. Looking forward to it.
Thanks to you both for sharing your gifts…continued blessings!
-rjkusn
June 24, 2014 @ 9:52 pm
i’ve had to buy Rattlesnake Tidal Wave three times. had it stolen twice. once by a buddy who has it in afghanistan right now and an ex girlfriend. the ex-gf one still kinda annoys me.