Julien Baker Cancels "Send a Prayer My Way" Tour, Prioritizing Health

Julien Baker, renowned singer-songwriter and member of the acclaimed supergroup Boygenius, has made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of her "Send a Prayer My Way" tour with fellow musician Torres (Mackenzie Ruth Scott). The announcement, shared jointly on both artists’ Instagram pages on May 4th, cites health reasons as the primary factor behind the cancellation.

The statement conveyed the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that Baker, 29, is prioritizing her well-being and taking necessary time to focus on her health. “Due to recent events,” the message read, “Baker is prioritizing her well-being and taking time to focus on her health. This decision was not made lightly, and we understand the disappointment this may cause for fans. We deeply appreciate your understanding.”

While specific details surrounding Baker’s health remain undisclosed, the news comes after a series of prior cancellations, hinting at underlying issues. Most notably, Baker and Torres had previously canceled a scheduled speaking engagement and performance at Ohio University on March 27th. The reason given at that time was that "one of our key members sustained a concussion and will need to take the next few weeks to recover." It’s not explicitly stated whether this injury is related to the current tour cancellation, but the timeline suggests a potential connection. An appearance at the Big Ears Festival in Knoxville, Tennessee, in late March was also scrapped.

The "Send a Prayer My Way" tour, which commenced on April 23rd, had scheduled stops throughout the summer, encompassing cities like New Orleans, Dallas, and Philadelphia. These performances were intended to showcase the collaborative country album of the same name, released by Baker and Torres on April 18th. The album, a testament to their shared musical sensibilities, garnered critical acclaim, including a four-out-of-five-star rating from Rolling Stone.

The collaboration between Baker and Torres blossomed from a casual exchange during the COVID-19 pandemic. As Torres revealed during a joint appearance on "The Daily Show" in March, the project originated from a simple text message. She reached out to Baker proposing a collaboration on a country album. "Julien was the first person I thought of because she’s from Tennessee, I’m from Georgia," Torres explained. "It just made sense." The album, five years in the making, reflects the artists’ Southern roots and their shared passion for honest and evocative songwriting.

Julien Baker has established herself as a significant force in the indie music scene since the release of her debut studio album, "Sprained Ankle," in 2015. Her emotionally raw lyrics, haunting vocals, and introspective songwriting have resonated with a wide audience, earning her widespread critical acclaim and a devoted following.

Beyond her solo work, Baker is also known for her involvement in the supergroup Boygenius, alongside Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus. The trio’s collaborative energy and musical chemistry have propelled them to international stardom. In 2024, Boygenius achieved remarkable success at the Grammy Awards, taking home three prestigious awards: Best Rock Performance, Best Rock Song, and Best Alternative Music Album. Their win solidified their position as one of the most important and influential acts in contemporary music.

The news of Baker’s tour cancellation coincides with Boygenius’ previously announced hiatus. During a secret show in Los Angeles in February 2024, Dacus confirmed the band’s plans to take a break. "This is our last show, and we’re feeling it," she stated, signaling a temporary pause in the group’s activities. The hiatus announcement came just days before the supergroup’s highly anticipated Grammys debut, adding another layer of complexity to the news cycle surrounding the band.

While the hiatus was already planned, Baker’s health concerns undoubtedly add a new dimension to the situation. It raises questions about the potential impact on future Boygenius projects and the individual trajectories of each member. Fans have expressed concern and support for Baker, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing her well-being above all else.

The cancellation of the tour is a setback for both Baker and Torres, as well as for the fans who were eagerly anticipating their performances. However, the decision underscores the importance of prioritizing health and well-being, particularly in the demanding world of professional musicianship.

The music industry often places immense pressure on artists to maintain grueling schedules and deliver consistent output. This can take a significant toll on their physical and mental health. Baker’s decision to prioritize her health serves as a reminder that even the most successful artists are not immune to these challenges.

The specifics of Baker’s health condition remain private, and it is crucial to respect her privacy during this time. Hopefully, with rest and care, she will be able to return to performing and creating music in the future.

The absence of further details has led to speculation among fans, but without official information, it is important to avoid spreading rumors or misinformation. USA TODAY has reached out to representatives of Baker for more information, but no further updates have been provided at this time.

For now, the focus remains on supporting Julien Baker in her recovery and respecting her need for privacy. Her decision is a testament to her self-awareness and commitment to her own well-being, and it serves as a valuable reminder to prioritize health and mental health. The cancellation of the tour is undoubtedly disappointing for many, but it is ultimately a necessary step for Baker to focus on her health and recovery. Fans are sending their support and well wishes, hoping for a swift and complete recovery.