Neil Diamond has announced his retirement from touring after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
The singer, who was set to perform across Australia and New Zealand in March and April as part of his 50th anniversary tour, has cancelled all his dates on doctor’s advice.
“Legendary singer, songwriter and performer Neil Diamond today announced his retirement from touring due to his recent diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease,” a statement on his website said.
He has already played across the US and Europe for the anniversary tour.
“It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring,” Diamond said.
“I have been so honoured 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.
“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.”
The Australian promoter Paul Dainty, who was working on the upcoming tour, said he was “devastated and saddened” at the news of Diamond’s illness and retirement.
“I have had the honour of promoting Neil’s numerous tours in Australia and New Zealand,” Dainty said. “The is one of the world’s greatest artists and we and his thousands and thousands of fans here will miss seeing him tour down under.”
The singer was set to perform in stadiums, arenas and wineries in Townsville, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, Bendigo, Melbourne, the Hunter Valley, Adelaide, Perth, Christchurch and Napier.
Tickets purchased by credit or debit card will be refunded in full. Ticketek will be in contact with people who bought tickets with cash or using eftpos to arrange refunds.
“… after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”
Looks like the aluminum in the CHEMTRAILS finally got to him.
He was one of my mom’s favorite artists… she was thrilled to see him in concert.
Funny you should mention that. This is from the comment section in the link:
“Two of the riskier occupations for Parkinson’s: farming and ranching. We see it here in central British Columbia, cattle country. We have no idea why.”
It’s all that “fresh air” and “great outdoors”. Perhaps these geniuses should look UP!
Parkinson’s & Alzheimer’s have SKYROCKETED in the last two decades, Martist.
Not long after they first started spraying us like bugs.
Also, Influenza A >>>> Parkinson’s
I like Neil. He gave some beautiful melodies:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6n1TWeEQ4
.