Music legend Ray Dorset, the frontman of the iconic 70s band Mungo Jerry, has been rushed to the hospital following a medical emergency. The 80-year-old singer, best known for the global smash hit 'In the Summertime', took to social media to share his ordeal and express gratitude to the medical staff who cared for him.
Emergency Hospital Visit
On Monday, June 8, Dorset revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that he was taken by ambulance to Bournemouth Hospital after recent surgery. He wrote: 'Once again, I have been taken by ambulance to Bournemouth hospital following my recent surgery.' Despite the discomfort, he found a moment of levity when he heard nurses singing his famous tune. 'A few minutes ago, while lying on my back awaiting an ultrasound scan, I could hear a few nurses singing 'In the Summertime'. I said to myself, 'Oh no, I have been recognised', but I have to admit that I began chuckling despite the discomfort. What a day!'
Fans Show Support
Fans quickly flooded the comments section with messages of support. One wrote: 'Hope you are feeling better soon, mate, and more to the point, that they get to the root cause. Great to see that that song is still alive and kicking after all these years!' Another added: 'I too love the song; wishing you all the best!' A third echoed: 'Wishing you a speedy recovery.'
Health Update
Although Dorset has not disclosed the specifics of his surgery or the reason for the emergency, he has previously spoken about suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and related stomach issues due to touring. In a follow-up update, he reassured fans: 'Thanks again so much for all of the good wishes. I got back from the hospital in the early hours of this morning, & I have to be back tomorrow morning. All of the staff in the hospital could not have been nicer, so massive thanks to all of the staff at the Bournemouth Hospital.'
Mungo Jerry's Legacy
'In the Summertime' remains Mungo Jerry's biggest hit, selling six million copies in its first six months and over 30 million copies to date. The song, written and composed by Ray Dorset, has been a summer anthem since its release in 1970. Mungo Jerry had nine charting singles in the UK, including two number ones: 'In the Summertime' and 'Baby Jump'. Throughout the band's various line-up changes, Dorset remained the constant member. Notable contributors included Paul King (bass), Joe Rush (drums), and Bob Daisley (bass).
The news comes a year after the passing of keyboard player Plato Contostavlos, known as Steve, who was a beloved figure in the music scene during the band's heyday.
