Michael Bolton, the renowned singer, had a touching moment with his daughters following his brain surgery in 2023. Despite undergoing an operation to remove a tumor that was later identified as glioblastoma, Bolton displayed his love for music by singing the 1969 Creedence Clearwater Revival hit “Proud Mary” just moments after coming out of surgery. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Bolton’s daughters, Holly, Taryn, and Isa, shared the heartwarming experience of hearing their father sing with such power and passion, bringing comfort and reassurance during a time of fear and uncertainty.
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The daughters described how Bolton’s powerful voice filled the hospital room, leaving them in awe of his resilience and love for music. Holly, Taryn, and Isa found solace in their father’s familiar voice, which remained unchanged even after surgery. Bolton’s dedication to his craft and his immediate return to work after the surgery showcased his unwavering passion for music, a constant source of strength throughout his life and career.

With a career boasting two Grammy Awards and over 65 million records sold, including hit songs like “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You” and “When a Man Loves a Woman”, Bolton has always found comfort and inspiration in music. In the face of his glioblastoma diagnosis in December 2023, music, alongside the unwavering support of his family, has been pivotal in his battle against this aggressive form of brain cancer. Bolton speaks openly for the first time about how music has been a lifeline for him during this challenging time.
Despite the impact of chemotherapy and radiation treatments on his memory, speech, and mobility, Bolton remains dedicated to his music. He continues to write songs, take voice lessons, and express gratitude for the extraordinary life he has lived. Through sharing his journey with glioblastoma, Bolton hopes to offer solace and support to others facing similar battles, emphasizing the importance of knowing that one is not alone in their struggles.
Acknowledging his fans as a precious gift, Bolton expresses deep gratitude for their unwavering support and thoughtfulness throughout his illness. Despite being known for his private nature, Bolton’s decision to share his experience publicly reflects his desire to connect with and uplift those facing similar challenges. By sharing his story, Bolton hopes to inspire others to find strength in unity and solidarity during difficult times.
Bolton’s resilience and determination to overcome the odds serve as a beacon of hope for many. His willingness to open up about his personal struggles underscores the power of vulnerability and human connection in navigating adversity. As Bolton continues his journey with glioblastoma, he remains committed to spreading a message of courage and unity, reminding others that they are never alone in their battles.
For more on Michael Bolton’s inspiring story and his courageous battle against glioblastoma, the latest issue of PEOPLE is a must-read. Bolton’s journey serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music, family support, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. His unwavering commitment to sharing his experience offers a beacon of hope and solidarity to all those fighting their own battles.
In conclusion, Michael Bolton’s touching moment with his daughters post-surgery underscores the healing power of music and family in times of adversity. His openness about his battle with glioblastoma serves as a beacon of hope and solidarity for others facing similar challenges. Bolton’s resilience and determination to overcome the odds exemplify the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
