Johnny Mathis Announces Retirement After Six Decades of Enchanting Audiences
Once the country’s hottest singer and a teenage heartthrob, Johnny Mathis, known for timeless hits like Misty and Chances Are, is preparing to retire after more than 60 years of captivating audiences with his velvety voice.
At 89 years old, Mathis has announced his retirement, citing age and memory decline as the main reasons for stepping back from the stage. While he will continue his Voice of Romance tour into the spring, his final performance is scheduled for May 18, 2025, at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey. However, any shows beyond June 2025 have been officially canceled.
A Heartfelt Farewell
A statement from Mathis’ team shared the news with fans:
“As many of you may already be aware, Johnny Mathis is approaching his 90th birthday this year. So, it’s with sincere regret that due to Mr. Mathis’ age and memory issues which have accelerated, we are announcing his retirement from touring and live concerts.”
It’s a bittersweet farewell for the man who has serenaded generations with unforgettable ballads and has become synonymous with romance.
The Voice of Romance
Born on September 30, 1935, in Gilmer, Texas, and raised in San Francisco, California, Johnny Mathis rose to fame with his smooth romantic ballads, becoming one of the most beloved figures in American music. Mathis, who began studying classical music as a child, started his professional singing career at just 13 years old. His father, a vaudeville singer and pianist, recognized his son’s natural talent and fully supported his musical journey.
During his time in San Francisco, Mathis found inspiration in jazz legends like Duke Ellington, whose sophisticated style deeply influenced him. “Ellington was one of my heroes because of his intellect. He was a stylish man, sophisticated without being pompous or arrogant, and his music absolutely sounded like he looked,” Mathis reflected in 1990.
A Monumental Career
During his time in San Francisco, Mathis found inspiration in jazz legends like Duke Ellington, whose sophisticated style deeply influenced him. “Ellington was one of my heroes because of his intellect. He was a stylish man, sophisticated without being pompous or arrogant, and his music absolutely sounded like he looked,” Mathis reflected in 1990.
A Monumental Career
Mathis’ breakthrough came in 1957 with hits like Chances Are and It’s Not for Me to Say, securing his place in pop music history. That same year, his album Johnny’s Greatest Hits set a record, staying on the Billboard charts for an astonishing 490 consecutive weeks.
With over 70 albums and more than 350 million records sold worldwide, Mathis became a fixture of romance and nostalgia. Songs like Wonderful! Wonderful!, The Twelfth of Never, and his holiday albums became iconic, earning him the title “The Voice of Romance.”
Lifetime Achievement and Recognition
Mathis’ illustrious career didn’t just bring commercial success; he also received numerous accolades. In 2003, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammy Awards and earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He was also inducted into the Great American Songbook Hall of Fame.
As he prepares for his final tour, Mathis leaves behind a remarkable legacy. His music will continue to inspire and touch hearts for generations. Refunds for canceled shows will be processed through the original point of purchase, ensuring fans’ tickets are handled appropriately.
A Lasting Legacy
As he prepares for his final tour, Mathis leaves behind a remarkable legacy. His music will continue to inspire and touch hearts for generations. Refunds for canceled shows will be processed through the original point of purchase, ensuring fans’ tickets are handled appropriately.
A Lasting Legacy
As Johnny Mathis takes a step back from the stage, his influence on music remains undeniable. His voice will forever echo in the hearts of fans, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire.
Do you have a favorite Johnny Mathis song that you’ll always cherish? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Mathis’ retirement marks the end of an era, but his iconic songs will continue to resonate with fans for years to come.
