Neil Diamond cancels Aussie shows, announces retirement from touring
Following the legendary musician's recent diagnosis with Parkinson's disease
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.
Reporting from inside the Australian music business since '94.
Check out Neil Diamond's 'Sweet Caroline':
Neil Diamond 50th Anniversary Australian Tour
Tuesday, March 20th 1300 Smiles Stadium, Townsville, QLD
Thursday, March 22nd Sunshine Coast Stadium, Bokarina, Queensland
Saturday, March 24th Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane, QLD
Tuesday, March 27th Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney, NSW
Saturday, March 31st Sutton Grange Winery, Sutton Grange, VIC
Tuesday, April 3rd Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, VIC
Saturday, April 7th Roche Estate, Hunter Valley, NSW
Wednesday, April 11th Botanic Park, Adelaide, SA
Saturday, April 14th Sandalford Estate, Perth, WA
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Reporting from inside the Australian music business since '94.
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