Legendary singer Johnny Mathis, known for his smooth voice and timeless hits, has officially announced his retirement from touring. At nearly 90 years old, Mathis has decided to step away from live performances due to ongoing concerns about his age and memory.
A Career Spanning Multiple Genres
Unlike many artists who stick to one style, Mathis explored a variety of musical genres, including pop, soul, blues, country, and even disco. Drawing inspiration from greats like Bing Crosby and Nat King Cole, he recorded beloved songs such as When a Child Is Born, My Love For You, and Maria. Over the years, his remarkable talent earned him a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame.
The Final Performances
Despite approaching his 90th birthday in September, Mathis had been actively touring with his 2025 Voice of Romance Tour. He had planned concerts on April 10, April 26, and May 10, with his final show set for May 18 at the Bergen PAC in Englewood, New Jersey. However, with all performances after May 18 now canceled, ticket holders will receive refunds.
His team shared the retirement news on Facebook, writing:
“As many of you may already be aware, Johnny Mathis is approaching his 90th birthday this year. So, it’s with sincere regret that due to Mr. Mathis’ age and memory issues, which have accelerated, we are announcing his retirement from touring and live concerts.”
A Fond Farewell
Along with announcing his retirement, Mathis’ team expressed gratitude to his fans, encouraging them to attend his final concerts. They signed off with a heartfelt nod to one of his famous songs, saying:
“Johnny Mathis and his entire staff send their heartfelt gratitude to all Mathis fans worldwide for your continued love and support of his music. It’s truly been ‘Wonderful, Wonderful.’”
Fans Share Their Love and Memories
Following the announcement, fans flooded the comments section with appreciation and admiration for Mathis. One person shared, “Johnny has always been my favorite singer since my mom introduced me to his music when I was 2. My husband and I have been married 55 years, and The Twelfth of Never has been our song since day one. Johnny, I will love your voice and style until the end of time!”
Another fan wrote, “This is very sad. We were fortunate to see him in Worcester several years ago. Truly a class act with a golden voice. Thank you for the endless joy you’ve blessed us with!”
A Lasting Legacy
While Johnny Mathis may no longer tour, his incredible voice and music will live on for generations. His songs have provided the soundtrack to countless love stories, and his impact on the music industry is undeniable. Fans around the world will continue to cherish the magic of his music, just as they have for decades.
