Marc Cohn, of ‘Walking in Memphis’ Fame, Shares Parkinson’s News

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Marc Cohn, who won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist thanks to his 1991 debut album and the appeal of its hit single, “Walking in Memphis,” announced on January 30, 2025, that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The acclaimed singer-songwriter revealed the news on his Facebook page, noting that he found out “about 5 years ago” and felt the time was right to share the diagnosis beyond his inner circle.

In the heartfelt post, Cohn, who turned 65 last July 5, wrote: I feel like it’s time to tell you, my fans, what many of my colleagues, friends and family already know. About 5 years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. I waited this long to tell you about the diagnosis because I needed time to process the unsettling news myself. But the good news is this: I’m doing everything I can to stave off Parkinson’s progression, and with those efforts, I have been able to continue playing shows for you all. Some nights have been more difficult than others, but there were moments of healing and deep gratitude for my ability to stand at the microphone and continue to do the job I love so much. These past few years have been a time of reflection and a reminder of the preciousness of every moment. Thank you for making my music part of your daily lives. I feel like I’ve been a guest at your weddings, your delivery rooms, your first dances, and all the passages we all go through.

This is just another passage… another opportunity to learn another dance.

I plan on continuing to do shows for as long as possible. Come meet us on the road somewhere.

With love and gratitude,
-Marc

“Walking in Memphis” was promoted by Atlantic Records to album rock, adult contemporary and Top 40 radio. It ultimately reached #13 on the Hot 100 chart, an incredible achievement given the song’s unlikely topic of a man feeling the gospel spirit (“Ma’am I am tonight!”) in the city known for Elvis, Al Green and W.C. Handy, all of whom are name-checked.

The single’s success led to three Grammy Award nominations; Cohn won for Best New Artist. “The timing for Marc’s album couldn’t have been better for us,” says Best Classic Bands’ founder Greg Brodsky, who oversaw Atlantic’s marketing efforts for the album. “We were hitting on all cylinders with acts like Genesis, INXS, Debbie Gibson, and more. But Marc filled a very important void for the label at that time: a male singer-songwriter.” The album was certified Platinum.

Cohn begins a 2025 tour on February 26 that currently continues into early April. Tickets are available here and here.