Two legendary musicians announced their retirements from touring this week, marking the end of an era for fans around the world.
During a press conference unveiling his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour on January 24, Elton John took a moment to pay tribute to Neil Diamond, who had just revealed his Parkinson’s diagnosis and subsequent retirement from live performances. Diamond had been set to tour Australia and New Zealand in March and April as part of his 50th-anniversary celebrations, but the illness forced him to cancel those plans.
Reflecting on Diamond’s impact, Elton John shared a heartfelt message. “I want to express my admiration and gratitude for Neil,” he told reporters. “Years ago, when I was just starting out, he introduced me to an influential audience at the Troubadour. He did it purely out of kindness because he loved my record. He was a massive star then, and he remains one today. I’ll be reaching out to him personally, but I also want to say publicly: I love him, and I can’t thank him enough for what he’s done for me.”
As for his own farewell, John confirmed that he will step away from touring after a monumental three-year global tour, kicking off in the U.S. this September and concluding in 2021. Addressing the finality of his decision, he quipped, “I’m not Cher—this is really the end.”
His UK performances are slated for 2019 and 2020, with tickets set to go on sale later this year.
“Performing live has been the heartbeat of my career, and I’m both excited and humbled to have one last opportunity to share my music with audiences across the world,” he said. “But after this tour, it’s time to close that chapter. My priority will be my family, and I’m looking forward to dedicating more time to raising my children.”
With both Elton John and Neil Diamond stepping away from the stage, their legacies remain stronger than ever, cementing their places among music’s greatest icons.
