Randy Travis had a rough summer. He suffered a stoke, had emergency surgery to save his life and is currently in recovery. But despite his intense health issues, the singer will release his 21st studio effort, 'Influence Vol. 1: The Man I Am,' this fall.

While Travis himself has inspired the new generation of country stars, here, he chooses to pay tribute to those who exerted influence over his music and catalog. Hence, the title.

“When I think of my musical heroes of yesteryear, or the younger stars of this year, I am reminded that it is true we learn from the ones ahead of us, and teach the ones that follow. hey are the reason I chose to make this album,” the singer explains. That's a beautiful idea, and will make Travis' new album resonate that much more.

On 'The Man I Am,' Travis performs songs by legends like Merle Haggard, George Jones, Lefty Frizzell and more. It's 13 tracks strong. Travis' single 'Tonight I'm Playing Possum' is currently grabbing radio spins.

Travis has traveled this sort of creative path before with his 25th anniversary celebration album, on which he collaborated with modern acts such as Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Carrie Underwood and Tim McGraw.

Randy Travis' 'Influence Vol. 1: The Man I Am' will hit store shelves on Oct. 1.

Randy Travis, 'Influence Vol. 1: The Man I Am' Track Listing:

1. 'Someday We’ll Look Back'
2. 'Big Butter and Egg Man'
3. 'What Have You Got Planned Tonight Diana'
4. 'Ever Changing Woman'
5. 'Pennies From Heaven'
6. 'Thanks a Lot'
7. 'Trouble in Mind'
8. 'My Mary'
9. 'Saginaw, Michigan'
10. 'Always on a Mountain (When I Fall)'
11. '(Because) You Asked Me To'
12. 'Why Baby Why'
13. 'Tonight I’m Playing Possum' (Feat. Joe Nichols)

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