In a heartfelt announcement on his Facebook account, legendary singer Johnny Mathis has revealed his retirement from live performances at the age of 89. Citing “age and memory issues that have accelerated," Mathis expressed his deep love for his fans while recognizing the need to step back from the touring circuit that he has graced since his debut in 1956.

While Mathis prepares to end this significant chapter of his life, he still has a few concerts lined up. His final performance is set for May 18 at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey, adding a bittersweet touch to his farewell tour. Unfortunately, all concerts scheduled from June 2025 onwards have been canceled, with ticket refunds available at the point of purchase.

The announcement made it clear that, despite the challenges he faces, Mathis is incredibly grateful for the unwavering support he has received over the decades. He stated, "It’s truly been ‘Wonderful, Wonderful,’” capturing the essence of his long and illustrious career. His official website currently lists only four remaining dates for his tour: April 10 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania; April 26 in Shipshewana, Indiana; May 10 in Santa Rosa, California; and the much-anticipated May 18 concert in New Jersey.

Despite the onset of age-related challenges, recent performances have shown that Mathis still possesses the remarkable vocal ability and the charm that captivated audiences for generations. Critics have noted that his voice remains strong and emotive, with many reminiscing about the golden days of his career. Jon Bream of the Minneapolis Star Tribune recently praised Mathis’s performance at Mystic Lake Casino, calling it “the most beautifully romantic concert in a theater in recent memory." He highlighted the singer's powerful voice, stating, “You could have closed your eyes and imagined it was 1960-something,” despite Mathis acknowledging that he hadn’t sung in a while.

The enduring appeal of Mathis is punctuated by his ability to connect with audiences, as evidenced by a standing ovation he received for his rendition of “Moon River.” Even amid mentions of physical challenges—like a “gimpy knee”—Mathis has demonstrated a commitment to sharing his passion for music, making the decision to retire one that is met with mixed emotions from fans and critics alike.

As the curtain falls on Johnny Mathis's remarkable 70-year career in live performance, music lovers around the globe will undoubtedly celebrate his contributions to the industry and reflect on the magic he brought to countless stages. Will you be there to witness the final notes of this music legend? Don't miss the chance to say goodbye to a true icon!