NASHVILLE (AP) - Country Music Hall of Fame singer Mel Tillis is recovering in Nashville after heart surgery over the weekend.

According to a statement from his daughter, Pam Tillis, the 81-year-old singer required a "routine heart procedure," but is expected to make a full recovery.

"In typical Mel Tillis fashion, he's already cutting up and cracking jokes with the nurses," Tillis said in a statement. Four scheduled shows have been canceled due to his surgery.

Tillis became a successful songwriter and singer despite dealing with a stutter. He has recorded more than 60 albums, and his hits include "Good Woman Blues," ''Coca Cola Cowboy," and "Southern Rain." He's written top songs for George Strait, Ray Price, Bobby Bare, Kenny Rogers and many more.