News January 23, 2018

Neil Diamond cancels Aussie shows, announces retirement from touring

Neil Diamond has today cancelled all his upcoming Australian and New Zealand tour dates following his announcement that he is retiring from touring, effective immediately.

In a statement posted on his website, Diamond, who turns 77 tomorrow, admitted that this decision is due to his recent diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease, and his difficulty to travel and perform on a large scale.

“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,” said Neil Diamond. “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,” he continued. “You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good’ thanks to you.”

Neil Diamond had announced Australian dates for his 50th anniversary tour back in November, with the singer planning to perform nine dates around the country between March and April. Diamond’s website advises that all ticket holders will receive full refunds from Ticketek.

Undoubtedly, this is terrible news for both the music world, and for Neil Diamond as well. We wish him in the best in his future endeavours as he continues to write and record, and our thoughts go out to him in light of his diagnosis.