Neil Diamond Announces Immediate Retirement Amid Health Crisis
It’s the end of an era. How else can you describe a world that will no longer have Neil Diamond wandering it, with his guitar slung over his shoulder like a medieval troubadour.
Granted, the famed singer/songwriter is still with us, but he will no longer be walking the streets among us.
On Monday, Diamond announced his immediate retirement.
That means for the first time in over half a century, a crowd will not be packed into an arena singing “Sweet Caroline” with this American song-master.
Diamond made his announcement in a release on Monday in which he said:
“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.”
Unfortunately, the decision to stop touring was not entirely his to make. Diamond was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.
While he hoped that he would be able to continue performing at his regular pace, in fact he had a series of shows celebrating his 50th Anniversary as a performer, he came to understand that the disease was just too limiting.
It is not, though, going to stop him from singing. He still plans to record and write. He’ll also still be appearing at various events.
For example, Diamond will be given a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Grammy Award ceremony.
It’s just one of many times the prolific musician has been honored.
He’s also a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and a Kennedy Center honoree. And then there are his 38 “Top 10” hits!
It’s been quite a career for the man who started out penning songs for The Monkees (“I’m a Believer”).
Just one of the many hits that has had the world belting it out in their cars.
In his announcement, Diamond did not dwell on his medical condition, instead turning his focus to those who have been with him through every note.
“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.”
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