Rod Stewart Announces Retirement from Touring
The legendary singer, 81, will embark on his final tour, 'The Final Encore,' next year.
Sir Rod Stewart, 81, announced that he will be retiring from live performances after more than six decades on the road. His upcoming tour, titled 'The Final Encore,' is scheduled to be his last, marking the end of an extensive career in rock and roll.
The singer, who recently underwent heart surgery, shared the news with his fans via a video message, stating it's "time to say farewell to life on the road." He expressed gratitude to his audience for the experiences and memories created throughout his career and hopes to have given them something in return.
'The Final Encore' tour will commence in Dublin on April 23 next year and conclude in Hannover, Germany, on July 24. The tour includes several UK dates in cities such as Glasgow, Birmingham, Manchester, and London. Howard Jones, known for his 1980s hits, will be the support act for the UK and Ireland dates.
Stewart had a coronary stent fitted last month after doctors discovered a blockage related to an "underlying heart issue." This surgery led to the cancellation of some dates on his 'One Last Time' farewell tour earlier this year. His wife, Penny Lancaster, had stated that he was recovering well and expected to return to his normal activities.
The singer's spokesman confirmed that Stewart was advised by doctors to take four weeks to recuperate and regain full fitness before returning to the stage. He apologized to fans for the cancellations and expressed his eagerness to get back on stage.
Stewart, who began his musical journey in the 1960s, has achieved significant success as a solo artist, with 25 UK Top 10 singles and six number-one hits, including "Sailing" and "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?" The decision to retire from touring comes after a career that has spanned over sixty years.