After wrapping up his spring tour with three nights at Cary, NC’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Billy Strings used his time off between tours to give back by paying a visit to the young patients at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI.

“Blue Glass Studios became Blue Grass Studios yesterday as we welcomed [Billy Strings], a Grammy-winning singer, guitarist, and songwriter,” the hospital wrote in a social media post detailing Strings’ appearance. This was no publicity stunt, however. The post continued:

Billy and his wife, Ally, welcomed their son last year who ended up in our NICU. Thankful for the care they received, they knew they wanted to come back for a special visit.

“I really wanted to come play music to distract kids from going through a rough time,” Billy said.

He was a guest during one of the studios’ live shows hosted by our Music Therapists, Lydia and Abby, to perform and share his music expertise.

The visit was finished with mini-performances on each floor, including the NICU.

Thank you, Billy, for taking the time to play some tunes and bring smiles to our patients, family members and team members. This was a day we will never forget! 💙

Strings replied to the hospital’s post with gratitude of his own, commenting, “Had a blast! Thank you for having me!! Hope to come back with the full band sometime 🪕 ❤️”

Check out photos from Billy Strings’ visit to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI below.

Strings is gearing up to help kick off Willie Nelson‘s traveling Outlaw Festival along with Bob Dylan, Sierra Hull, Lake Street Dive, and more. Find tickets and tour dates here.