Johnny Mathis has made the poignant announcement of his retirement from the live stage, citing "age and escalating memory concerns" as the driving forces behind his decision. This heartfelt news broke on Wednesday via a statement posted on the 89-year-old legend's Facebook page, which read: "Despite the anticipation surrounding upcoming concerts, it is with profound sadness that we must inform you that all Johnny Mathis performances scheduled from June 2025 onwards have been cancelled."
The statement further conveyed, "As many of you are aware, Johnny Mathis stands on the cusp of celebrating his 90th birthday this year. Therefore, it is with heartfelt reluctance that we announce his retirement from touring and live concerts, owing to the accelerated effects of age and memory-related challenges on Mr. Mathis."
Prior to his official retirement, Mathis' website reveals that the celebrated singer-songwriter still has four concerts lined up as part of his 2025 Voice of Romance tour, spanning locations such as Pennsylvania, Indiana, California, and New Jersey, with his final bow scheduled for May 18. Regarding the four cancelled engagements, the post assured, "Refunds will be promptly processed through the original points of purchase."
"Johnny Mathis, along with his entire team, extends their profound gratitude to his fans across the globe for their unwavering affection and unyielding support for his music. It has indeed been a journey filled with 'Wonderful, Wonderful' moments," the statement concluded, echoing the timeless melody of his hits.
Mathis, whose enchanting voice has brought classics like "Too Much, Too Little, Too Late," "Gina," "What Will My Mary Say," and "Misty" to life, has been serenading audiences worldwide for seven decades since the release of his self-titled debut album in 1956. Throughout his storied career, he has garnered five Grammy nominations and was honored with The Recording Academy's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003. Additionally, three of his recordings – "Chances Are," "It's Not For Me To Say," and "Misty" – have been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as a timeless vocal icon.
