Singer Johnny Mathis, known for his smooth voice and romantic ballads, has announced his retirement from touring after nearly 70 years in the spotlight. The 89-year-old artist will perform a few more shows before his final concert on May 18 at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey.
Mathis began his career in 1956 with the release of his self-titled album. Over the decades, he has maintained a loyal fan base and recorded an impressive 53 studio albums from 1960 to 1990. Despite the changing music scene, his popularity has endured.
In a heartfelt statement shared on his Facebook page, Mathis expressed gratitude to his fans for their ongoing support. The announcement cited his age and recent memory issues as factors in his decision to retire from live performances. The statement read, “It’s truly been ‘Wonderful, Wonderful.’”
For fans who purchased tickets for shows scheduled in June, the announcement included information about refunds. Before his final performance, Mathis is set to take the stage in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania on April 10, Shipshewana, Indiana on April 26, and Santa Rosa, California on May 10.
Recently, Mathis received praise for a concert in Prior Lake, Minnesota. A reviewer from the Minneapolis Star Tribune noted that, despite his age, his voice remained strong and clear, delivering a beautifully romantic performance. Mathis even earned a standing ovation after singing “Moon River.”
In past interviews, Mathis has discussed how his health affects his career. He emphasized the importance of being physically fit to perform, as a vocalist’s voice can be fragile. Mathis has received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and has been honored in the Grammy Hall of Fame for three of his recordings.
As he prepares to say goodbye to touring, Johnny Mathis leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the music world, cherished by fans around the globe.
