Grammy-winning bluegrass musician Billy Strings delivered a heartfelt performance in Lexington, Kentucky, on Friday, June 20, just hours after receiving news of his mother’s death.

Addressing the audience at Rupp Arena, Strings, known for his song ‘Taking Water,’ shared that his mother, Debra Apostol, had passed away. He expressed vulnerability,stating that the concert would be “probably going to be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.”

Strings cautioned the crowd that the evening’s outcome was uncertain, dependent on his ability to find strength and rely on their support. He explained that after a performance in Michigan the previous night, he and his crew drove directly to Lexington, where he fell asleep in the early hours.

Strings recounted that his wife woke him later that morning to deliver the news that “my stunning mother, Debra Apostol, had passed away in her sleep.”

Holy shit this is heavy as fuck. Billy’s mom passed away last night and this home boy just owns it and just comes out and lets it go. Some amazing stuff. wow.
RIP mama strings.. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/u2TqWTC7ca

– chuck the wöök (@wook_chuck) June 21, 2025

Following the devastating news, Strings said he instinctively began walking and found solace at an old country church, where a woman welcomed him. “She stayed with me and prayed with me for a while, and eventually gave me a ride back to where I was staying,” he shared.

strings then decided to proceed with the Rupp Arena concert “because that’s what my mom would’ve wanted me to do.”

“She really loved this group of people,” he told the crowd.”She loved y’all so much.”

6.20.25 | Lexington, KY 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/35xRr9mRXG

– Billy Strings (@BilStrings) June 21, 2025

Addressing the audience, he said, “She really loved this group of people. she loved y’all so much. The last couple years where some of her happiest because of a lot of you folks right here. Y’all became some of her best friends, and I really want to thank you for that. The reason I decided not to go home and be with my family right now is because I already am.”

Strings,overcome with emotion,asked the audience to make noise for his late mother. He then introduced his band for an emotionally charged performance of ‘I’ve Just Seen the Rock of Ages’.

Bluegrass Music: A Deep Dive

Bluegrass music, a genre deeply rooted in American history, has seen a resurgence in recent years, captivating audiences with its intricate instrumentals and heartfelt lyrics. It’s a genre known for its fast tempos, complex harmonies, and improvisational solos, often featuring instruments like the banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, and upright bass Britannica. Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, blending influences from Scottish, Irish, and English customary music with African american blues and jazz IBMA.

Upcoming Performances

Strings is scheduled to perform in Australia and New Zealand next month, followed by another leg of US tour dates starting in August.