Art Alexakis, singer and frontman of the Grammy-nominated rock band Everclear, recently completed a 43-show tour marking the 30th anniversary of the band’s album Sparkle and Fade. For the 63-year-old musician, the milestone carried extra meaning: he has been living with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) for a decade.
Diagnosed in 2016 after a car accident prompted an MRI, Alexakis learned that lesions on his brain and spine indicated MS. Doctors told him the damage suggested the disease had likely been present for decades. He remembered symptoms going back to his 20s: episodes of vertigo, balance and walking problems, fatigue, odd skin sensations, and occasional weakness in his arm.
“It was a blessing to me to get that diagnosis because a lot of people go through life and never get diagnosed correctly,” Alexakis told Healthline. He said the diagnosis pushed him to work harder to stay active and grateful: playing many shows, navigating airports, and maintaining his music career have helped his mental outlook.
Alexakis’ neurologist, Regina Berkovich, MD, PhD, stressed that MS is not confined to a narrow age range. “We can see it in childhood and as late as senior age,” she said, noting that MS “doesn’t follow any rules.” Treatment for MS has evolved from symptom management to disease-modifying therapies that can change long-term outcomes when matched appropriately to the patient.
Alexakis eventually found success with Tysabri, a monoclonal antibody given by intravenous infusion. He said an earlier medication worked for a while but stopped after he contracted COVID-19 in 2021; since switching to Tysabri he reports the disease is not progressing. He sees his neurologist twice a year.
“Not every medication works the same for different people or even for the same person during different periods of life,” Berkovich said. She hopes Alexakis’ openness encourages others to ask questions, advocate for themselves, and try different therapies until they find one that helps.
Alexakis follows a routine to support his health: he swims because he can’t run like he used to, does physical therapy three times a week, avoids inflammatory foods when possible, and stays on his medication. He also finds joy in family life, cooking, and listening to podcasts—especially ones about the Seattle Seahawks and the Los Angeles Dodgers, whose championship seasons lifted his spirits.
He urges people who recognize similar symptoms in themselves to keep pushing for answers. “If your doctor tells you it’s in your head, go to a different doctor. Keep pushing till you find a diagnosis that makes sense for you,” he said.
Beyond his own care, Alexakis aims to be of service. He credits his sobriety—almost 37 years—and his spiritual program and fellowship with helping him stay focused on helping others. He mentions giving shoutouts at shows to “MS warriors, cancer warriors, wheelchair warriors” and celebrating audience members who persevere despite challenges.
On the music front, Alexakis says Everclear will tour next year for the 30th anniversary of So Much for the Afterglow and is currently in the studio working on a new album. He describes songwriting as catharsis and says the new record will reflect the times.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.
