Country-Soul Legend Big Al Downing Hospitalized in Massachusetts

NASHVILLE, TN. (Big Al Downing PR Team) - Country-Soul legend Big Al Downing has been hospitalized in Massachusetts reports his wife of 27 years, Beverly. Recently diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, the singer with the big voice, the big smile and the big heart will begin chemotherapy treatment immediately.

Best known for his hits, "Mr. Jones" and "Touch Me," Downing's impact on the country genre is far- reaching. His music, a soul-based, "true" country sound, has won this veteran songwriter, musician and performer fans around the globe. A recipient of Billboard's New Artist of the Year and Single of the Year in 1979, his lengthy career is a testament to his many talents.
In 2003, he released the critically- acclaimed CD, ONE OF A KIND, and was recording tracks for an upcoming CD when stricken with this illness. A beloved entertainer, Downing has continued to perform over 75 key dates per year, and recently appeared at Ontario's prestigious Havelock Country Jamboree with Kenny Rogers and Roy Clark. Plans for his upcoming European tour have been put on hold.

The family respectfully requests no telephone calls at this time, but cards and best wishes may be sent to:

Big Al Downing
65 Watson Street
Leicester, MA 01524
More information will be released as it becomes available.