Tracy Lawrence Reflects on Life-Altering Trauma from 1991

Country artist Tracy Lawrence opened up about a traumatic experience that changed his life more than 30 years ago. In May of 1991, while he was recording his debut album “Sticks and Stones,” he was walking to a hotel in Nashville with his girlfriend when they were confronted by armed robbers. During this robbery, Lawrence was shot four times and had to undergo major surgery to remove the bullets.

Now, looking back, he acknowledges that he should have sought professional help after surviving the shooting. Frankly, he realizes he didn’t fully understand the impact it would have on him.

“I was angry at the time,” Lawrence shared. “It felt like they were trying to rob me of my future. I didn’t seek the emotional support I needed.” He went on to explain that he often suppressed his feelings, which created ongoing issues in both his personal life and career.

Lawrence mentioned developing what he calls a “bit of a God complex” following the incident, feeling invincible in some respects. “Going through something life-altering like that pushed me further than I might have gone otherwise,” he said.

He stresses the importance of discussing traumatic events. “When something like that happens, it’s vital to talk it out. Suppressing your feelings just leads to bigger problems later.”

After the shooting, Lawrence was hospitalized for several days at Vanderbilt Medical Center, going through multiple surgeries. Doctors chose not to remove a bullet lodged in his lower back, which he still feels. He recalled his fear during recovery, especially fearing amputation after being shot in the knee. “For a bit, I really thought they’d have to take my leg,” he admitted. “That was pretty traumatic; I’m still dealing with that injury.”

Though the incident could have derailed his career—he was a rising star at the time—his passion for music and faith kept him grounded. “I feel blessed to have a career I love and to have pursued this dream since I was about 12,” he reflected. “Now that I’m 58, I still have that same passion, which feels rare.”

Lawrence is currently preparing for his 2026 No Alibis Tour, which kicks off in March and runs through August. He expressed excitement about reconnecting with fans he hasn’t seen in years. “It’s a good time to get back out there,” he said, looking forward to performing at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.