Jackson Browne has tested positive for COVID-19, he revealed in an interview with Rolling Stone’s Angie Martoccio. The singer-songwriter is currently recovering at his home in Los Angeles.
Browne mentioned that he came into contact with “several people” who also tested positive for the coronavirus at the Love Rocks NYC benefit concert at the Beacon Theater on March 12. “There was already a question of being careful and saying, ‘I’ll bump elbows and not shake hands and won’t hug anybody,’” he told Rolling Stone. “But still, you’re in close quarters and you’re breathing the same air.”
“As soon as I had a small cough and a temperature, I tested [for COVID-19],” Browne said. He described his symptoms as mild and said he didn’t require medication or hospitalization. He “quarantined immediately” upon learning the news.
“I feel lucky that I’m not really affected,” Browne said. “I guess I’ve got a really strong immune system. There’s so much we don’t know. The one thing you can do is not go anywhere, not show up anywhere. Now I wish I hadn’t gone to New York and done this benefit. I think to myself, ‘How much simpler would it have been had I just called in and said no, I’m not going to travel on a cross-country flight and spend two days in New York with all these people that are singing all over the country.’”
He said he’s spending his time in quarantine listening to music, catching up with his friends and family, and reading news reports about the pandemic. Browne also opened up about the importance of discussing his positive test. “Our experiences will be helpful for others to know,” he said. “I don’t think my case is that important, but it might be helpful to know that some people don’t get this really bad. The idea that we can contribute to the overall herd immunity. You get over this as quickly as you can and be available to help others.”