American country star Randy Travis is in a critical condition in hospital with a heart condition thought to be caused by a virus. The singer-songwriter - who has won several Grammys and Country Music Association awards - spent the night in a Dallas hospital, his publicist told the BBC.

The 54-year-old has struggled with health and legal problems in recent years, pleading guilty to drink-driving in January after being found drunk and naked following a car crash in Texas. However, Travis has made several high-profile appearances since then, including a performance at the funeral of fellow country star George Jones in May.

In June, he performed a well-attended concert in Nashville and told fans he had finished recording an album of country classics. 

Though few details are available on the specifics of Travis's condition, the entertainment website TMZ.com claims he is suffering from viral cardiomyopathy, which is a "disease that weakens and enlarges your heart muscle."

Travis, known for hits Forever and Ever, Amen, Diggin' Up Bones and Deeper Than The Holler, was scheduled to perform in Deadwood, South Dakota on Wednesday (July 10, 2013.)

We here at Contactmusic.com wish Randy Travis and his family and friends the very best at this difficult time. 

Randy TravisRandy Travis At The CMA Music Festival

Randy Travis
Randy Travis Looking Healthy At The CMA Music Festival