Jake Worthington is back after stepping away from music earlier this year to focus on himself and his family.
Worthington is one of the few modern country artists that take pride in bringing the classic country sound to the table. The saying “out with the old and in with the new” typically applies in most areas, but not with modern country music. It’s in with the old right now, and artists like Worthington (and Zach Top) are at the forefront of that movement.
The “Not Like I Used To” singer prides himself in paying tribute to the country music stars of yesteryear, but back in May, the country singer took to social media to announce that he had followed down the path of legends a little too closely. Worthington admitted that the life he had been living had gotten the best of him, and that he was stepping away from his country music career to take time to focus on himself, his wife, and his daughter:
“I live a life as my heroes did, but that life gotten a hold of me. I love my family, my friends, and my fans too much to let it take over me. I need to take some time to work on myself for my wife and my daughter. I promise I will come back even better. God bless country music.”
Though it was sad to see the talented Jake Worthington walk away, everyone was happy to see him prioritize himself over his career to get the help he needs. It’s no secret that tour life can take a toll on you in more ways than one. Whether it’s your physical health, your mental health, or you’re just having a little too much fun, trying to power through it can lead to an even worse situation in the end. Good for Jake for recognizing that.
The neotraditional country artist joined a number of other artists who took time out of their 2026 to focus on themselves. Chase Rice, Randall King, and Colter Wall have all made announcements to their fans this year that they needed to step away (Rice and King have since come back). Though worrisome, it’s good to see that all of them are prioritizing their health.
And it’s great to see that Worthington got everything straightened away to feel comfortable enough to get back on the road. Just hours ago, the country singer shared a photo (and a video of him sitting at an airport) with a message thanking everyone for the patience and understanding. He also made it known that he was getting back on the road, and that it was a “sure footed” move:
“Hey y’all, just want to thank y’all for the opportunity and time given, along with all the love and support. To my family, friends, fans and work peers thank you. We’re hitting the pavement, Sure Footed.”
We here at Whiskey Riff – along with all of the Jake Worthington fans out there – are happy to see that the “Hell of a Highway” singer took the time he needed to better himself. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup, and it appears that Worthington got his cup filled back up and is ready to get back out there in front of the fans.