What's happened
Legendary singer Johnny Mathis, 89, has announced his retirement from live performances due to age and memory issues. His final concert is scheduled for May 18, 2025, in Englewood, New Jersey, after a career spanning nearly seven decades. Refunds will be issued for canceled shows.
What's behind the headline?
Impact of Retirement
- Legacy: Johnny Mathis is a pivotal figure in American music, known for his romantic ballads that defined a genre. His retirement marks the end of an era for many fans.
- Health Considerations: The announcement highlights the impact of aging on artists, raising awareness about the challenges faced by performers as they grow older.
- Fan Response: Mathis's fans have expressed gratitude for his contributions to music, and his final concert is expected to be a significant event, reflecting his enduring popularity.
- Future of Music: While Mathis retires from touring, there are hints of potential new music, suggesting that his artistic contributions may continue in some form.
This retirement not only signifies the end of live performances for Mathis but also serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of artistic careers and the importance of celebrating their legacies.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, Johnny Mathis's retirement announcement was made due to 'accelerating age and memory issues,' emphasizing the singer's health concerns as he approaches his 90th birthday. The NY Post noted that Mathis's farewell concert is already sold out, with tickets fetching high prices on resale sites, indicating his lasting appeal. The Guardian highlighted Mathis's extensive career, mentioning his numerous hits and the impact he has had on the music industry, particularly in the romantic ballad genre. Each source reflects a deep respect for Mathis's contributions to music and the emotional weight of his retirement.
How we got here
Johnny Mathis began his career in 1956 and became known for romantic ballads like 'Misty' and 'It's Not for Me to Say.' He has faced health challenges in recent years, leading to the decision to retire from touring.
Go deeper
- What were some of Johnny Mathis's biggest hits?
- How has Mathis influenced the music industry?
- What can fans expect from his final concert?
Common question
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Why Did Johnny Mathis Announce His Retirement from Touring?
Legendary singer Johnny Mathis has announced his retirement from live performances at the age of 89, citing health concerns. This decision marks the end of an era for a beloved artist whose career has spanned nearly seven decades. Fans and music lovers are left wondering about the impact of his retirement and the legacy he leaves behind.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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John Royce Mathis is an American singer-songwriter of popular music. Starting his career with singles of standard music, he became highly popular as an album artist, with several dozen of his albums achieving gold or platinum status and 73 making the Bill
