Source: Loop Caribbean
David Rudder has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.
Rudder, however, said that his condition won’t stop him from performing.
Speaking to Loop News, Rudder said he will no longer do the four-hour-long type of concerts that he does every five years. Instead, his performances will be limited to shorter appearances.
Rudder said he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2020 following the death of people close to him such as longtime drummer Barry Howard and musical director, writing partner and friend, Wayne Bruno.
He said that opened the door for him to get tested because of some strange feelings he was experiencing.
Asked to elaborate, he said he began walking slower and when telling jokes, his face would remain expressionless. He said speaking was also more challenging.
Asked how he felt when he got the diagnosis, the musical legend said he was relieved to know what was going on with him.
According to Mayo Clinic, Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system and the parts of the body controlled by the nerves.
Symptoms start slowly and degenerate over time.
Rudder said he was told it may take 10 to 20 years for the disease to progress.
“It’s definitely not uphill but downhill,” he joked.
He said he is on medication and has to work out daily which is challenging because of the amount of time he spends travelling across the world.
“I only move when I am on stage,” he said.
Despite his diagnosis, Rudder said he still has lots to do such as work on his autobiography and put out more music.
He said he did a song for Carnival 2023 called The Rising which was not released due to circumstances beyond his control. He also working on another song called The Windrush.
On May 6, his 70th birthday, Rudder will headline a concert entitled Rudder 7.0 at Sound Forge.
Rudder said he wants people to come out and have a good time because we are celebrating the “Livingness of Life”, a line from his song “Lovely Day”. The concert will feature popular Rudder songs as well as old songs that may not be as well-known.
Rudder is urging patrons to come out and for the duration of the night to forget all the negativity in the world.
Asked how he was feeling, Rudder said he is in a good place but he has moments when he is down.
He said he decided to make his condition public to nip any speculation about his health in the bud.
David Rudder 7.0 takes place on May 6 at Sound Forge, Maraval Road from 8.30 pm. Tickets available at Islandetickets.com