Country music's young stars have been stepping away from the stage. Here's why

Country music’s latest year-to-date wave has been about artists stepping back from touring and the spotlight to address mental health. Ernest announced last week that he’s pausing touring for a couple of weeks after saying “the road” has been dragging him down “from mental to physical health.” The rising songwriter, whose real name is Ernest Kenny Smith, said he owes it to himself and others affected by his actions and thanked Ella Langley for having him on tour. At 34, he has released four albums, including Deep Blue (May 1, 2026). The report frames him as the eighth country star to make a similar health-focused announcement in 2026.