'Walmart yodeling kid' gives sad update after disappearing from spotlight
Mason Ramsey became a viral internet meme in 2018 after performing in the supermarket
The kid who went viral eight years ago for yodeling in Walmart has issued a heartbreaking update.
Mason Ramsey had the internet eating out of the palm of his hand back in March 2018, when his family shared a video of him performing country anthem 'Lovesick Blues' by Hank Williams at the US supermarket.
The Illinois-local was just 11 years old at the time, winning over millions with his crisp white shirt, red bow-tie, bright denim jeans, cowboy boots and an almighty metal belt buckle.
Within days, the cute clip littered the social media feeds of millions of users, becoming something of a meme and collectively garnering over 25 million views. Many fans were left impressed by Ramsey's vocal range, his rare knack for yodeling, and his courage to perform publicly. As a result, the youngster subsequently signed record deals with the national production firm Atlantic Records, and the Nashville-based label, Big Loud.
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Along with releasing a number of chart-topping singles, the years that followed saw Ramsey performing as an invited guest at both Coachella music festival and the Grammy Awards.
He also sang at Fenway Park in Boston alongside Lana Del Rey, and even featured on a viral remix of Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus' country hit, 'Old Town Road', with Young Thug.
In 2024, Ramsey's debut album I'll See You in My Dreams was released, after which he seemed to take something of a break from the public eye.
Sadly, by the talented youngster's own admission, the collection didn't bang as much as he thought it would, and taking to Instagram this week, Ramsey revealed he'd been dropped by his record label last year.
In an emotional update, the 19-year-old revealed he'd previously undertaken a 'much needed break' from the online world, 'so I could get my business and head on straight'.
"I wanted to say thank you for the birthday wishes in November and all the Merry Christmas messages I got in December," he continued. "Last year was one of the most difficult years of my life.
"My label dropped me, my agency left me and I had to part ways with my manager."
Thankfully, Ramsey went on to confirm that things aren't all doom and gloom - in fact, he claimed to have brought in a 'whole new team' with the aim of relaunching his music career.
"[I] have been making music that I have never been more excited about," he continued. "I can’t wait to share everything I’ve been working on and to get back on the road.
"I’ll be a lot more active on here so feel free to say hi! Much Love - MR."
And by the look of the comment section, Ramsey's fans couldn't be more thrilled that he's back in business, with one gushing: "Aww wow welcome back Mason - you got this."
Another wrote: "So sorry to hear but proud of you for persevering through it! cannot wait to hear the exciting new music! been cheering you on since day one young king."
"I saw you play at the crocodile in Seattle and it was the highlight of my year!" a third added.
"You’re an absolute star - can’t wait to see what the future brings you!"
A fourth continued: "Sometimes closed doors means open ones other places. Just keep doing what you love, and I’ll keep supporting you!
"You’re amazing dude!"
Rhianna Benson