Very upsetting news announced today by Rolling Stone, rock n roll legend Neil Diamond announced on Monday that he will no longer be touring after recently being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. This unfortunate development in his health has caused Diamond to cancel his upcoming Australia tour dates celebrating the 50th anniversary.
The singer shared his sad news on his website, writing “It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring,” Diamond said in a statement. “I have been so honored to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years. My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows.” He Continued to comment “”I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come,” Diamond added. “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,” a nod to his hit “Sweet Caroline.”
In an interview with Rolling Stone Magazine in 2016, Diamond stated about is illustrious career “It’s been very heartening to me. I’ve been doing this 50 years and to have an audience that’s out there and anxious and enthusiastic is exciting,” Diamond said. “As a matter of fact, when I started having hit records you think your career might be one or two or three records. And that’s it. You were finished when one bombed. That’s all the chance you got. Next!”
Even though fans of Diamond all around the world will be nothing short of disappointed about this news, it is not without the knowledge that the icon is looking towards his health rather than his career, and that should comfort anyone, especially adoring fans.
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