Ronnie McDowell

Ronnie McDowell — Photo: CTD file photo

Ronnie McDowell is a Vietnam veteran and country singer from Portland, Tennessee who got his start with "The King Is Gone," a tribute he wrote after Elvis Presley died in 1977. He went on to sing the chart toppers "Older Women" and "You're Gonna Ruin My Bad Reputation." He also sang 36 songs for the TV movie Elvis starring Kurt Russell.

Hometown: Portland, Tennessee

Most read Ronnie McDowell stories

Latest Stories

A few years ago, country singer Ronnie McDowell performs under stage lights, speaking into a microphone before his recent surgery complications.

Country Music Star Ronnie McDowell Recovering From Serious Surgery Complication

Ronnie McDowell is recovering from surgery after a stroke and serious complication, but the country legend says he's still walking and ready to return to the stage.

July 30, 2025 8:10 AM CDT

Ronnie McDowell looked strong in 2022. And after that mid-show stroke this week, he's proving he still won't back down.

Country Music Veteran Ronnie McDowell Suffers Stroke Mid-Show and Gets Rushed to the Hospital

Ronnie McDowell suffered a mini-stroke mid-performance in Pennsylvania and was rushed to the hospital. He's now recovering and cleared to perform again soon.

June 26, 2025 7:41 AM CDT

Ronnie McDowell’s Top 10 Songs Over His 40 Year Career

Playlist, Songs & Music

Top 10 Ronnie McDowell Songs Over His 40 Year Career

Ronnie McDowell songs dominated the country charts during the first half of the ’80s – and it happened fast without no signs of slowing down.

October 14, 2021 9:21 PM CDT