Country music artist Conner Smith made a poignant return to the stage for the first time since a tragic car accident in June, which resulted in the death of an elderly woman. The performance, which took place at the Grand Ole Opry, was marked by deep emotion and reflection on his faith journey. Smith’s representatives shared a video with Fox News Digital, showcasing the singer addressing the crowd and opening up about the aftermath of the accident.
During the event, Smith was introduced by fellow Christian artist Steven Curtis Chapman and performed a set filled with emotion and worship, debuting a personal new song titled “Songs of David,” which he described as a “version of a prayer” he had been writing over the past two months. Before stepping onstage, Smith addressed fans directly with a heartfelt post on his blog titled “The First Step,” candidly discussing the emotional aftermath of the fatal crash and his private journey since then.
His performance follows a period of mourning and reflection, as he had canceled multiple shows in the wake of the accident to grieve and focus on his emotional well-being. Smith explained that while performing has often served as a source of healing for him, this moment required him to take a step back. The accident, which occurred in June, left a 77-year-old woman dead, and Smith was issued a misdemeanor citation for failure to yield, resulting in a fatality.
In a post on July 11, Smith shared his thoughts on the tragedy, stating, “Four weeks ago, I was involved in a tragic vehicle accident that resulted in the loss of a life. Not a day has gone by that I haven’t grieved, prayed, and mourned for Ms. Dobbins and her family.” The incident has been widely discussed, with media outlets shedding light on its impact on both the artist and the community involved.
The event highlights the personal and professional challenges faced by Smith in the wake of the accident, as well as the broader implications for public safety and legal accountability. His return to the stage, while deeply personal, also serves as a testament to his resilience and commitment to his craft despite the profound tragedy he has experienced.