The music world is in mourning following the death of acclaimed American country singer and songwriter Todd Snider at the age of 59. His passing was confirmed in a poignant statement shared on his official social media channels, coming just days after he was hospitalised with pneumonia.
A Final Health Battle
The sad news emerged on Saturday, November 15, 2025. A day prior, a health update on Snider’s pages had prepared fans for ‘difficult news to share’. The statement revealed that after returning home to recover, Snider began having trouble breathing and was admitted to a hospital in Hendersonville, Tennessee.
Doctors diagnosed him with a previously undetected case of walking pneumonia. His condition grew more complex, necessitating a transfer for additional treatment. His care team and close friends and family remained by his side, with the public asked to keep him in their thoughts.
A Legacy of Songwriting
The official announcement of his death paid a moving tribute to his unique talent. ‘Where do we find the words for the one who always had the right words,’ it began, celebrating his ability to distil life's essence through song.
It highlighted his distinctive voice, which combined devastating, hilarious, and impactful phrases, creating work that felt like ‘an old friend or a favourite blanket’. The tribute noted his relentless work ethic, stating he got up every morning to write, aspiring to stand alongside the songwriting giants he admired.
These influences included Guy Clark, John Prine, Kris Kristofferson, and Jerry Jeff Walker. Snider released his debut album, ‘Songs for the Daily Planet’, in 1994 and went on to produce 19 more records over his prolific career.
A Turbulent Final Month
Snider's health struggles were compounded by a traumatic incident earlier in the month. He was forced to cancel dates on his ‘High, Lonesome and Then Some… 2025 US tour’ after being the victim of a violent assault outside his hotel.
His team stated the attack left him with severe injuries, requiring an undetermined amount of time off for medical treatment. The assault led to his admission to Holy Cross Hospital. In a subsequent, chaotic turn of events, Snider was arrested in Salt Lake City after returning to the hospital to ‘air grievances’.
Police Detective Michael Ruff confirmed Snider was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct, trespassing, and making a violent threat towards staff. He was released a few hours later.
This was not the first time health issues had interrupted Snider's career. He had previously taken a three-year break from touring due to complications from spinal stenosis, a condition that causes pressure on the spinal cord.
Fans across the globe have flooded social media with tributes, remembering him as a legendary storyteller whose songs of love, compassion, and peace will endure. The final message from his official page encouraged listeners: ‘Today, put on one of your favourite Todd Snider records and “play it loud enough to wake up all of your neighbours”’.
