Neil Diamond made a very sad announcement on Monday night:
Due to a recent medical diagnosis, the legendary singer has been forced to retire from touring, effective immediately.
The musician, who turns 77 years old on January 24, confirmed via his official website this evening that he has Parkinson’s Disease.
“It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring. I have been so honored to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years,” Diamond said.
He continued:
”My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows.”
That’s very sweet and very silly, of course.
Diamond does not owe anyone an apology of any kind.
The statement went on to detail how the onset of the Parkinson’s Disease has “made it difficult to travel and perform on a large scale basis but will allow Mr. Diamond to continue his writing, recording and development of new projects.”
Parkinson’s is a neurological disease.
It typically affects one’s motor skills, along with one’s balance and the use of one’s limbs.
There is no known cause.
It is not considered fatal, but there are no known cures, either, and it can be very debilitating.
Added Diamond on his website:
“I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come. My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world.
“You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement.
“This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good’ thanks to you.”
As a result of this diagnosis, the third leg of Diamond’s 50th Anniversary tour has been canceled, including the Australia and New Zealand dates that were scheduled to kick off in March.
Simply put, Diamond is a music legend.
He’s an all-timer.
The musician has sold over 130 million albums and earned a spot in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.
Among his most beloved tracks:
- “I’m a Believer” (1967)
- “Red Red Wine” (1967)
- “Sweet Caroline (Good Times Never Seemed So Good)” (1969)
- “Cracklin’ Rosie” (1970)
Despite his advanced age, Diamond has performed regularly over the past few years.
He was a major draw on FOX’s New Year’s Eve with Steve Harvey: Live From Times Square just a couple weeks ago, for example.
The Recording Academy will honor Diamond with its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award during the Grammy Awards on January 28 on CBS.
We’ll be tuning in.
And we doubt there will be a dry eye in the house.