Johnny Mathis says goodbye – struggles with memory decline

Once upon a time, he was the country’s hottest singer and the teenagers’ delight.

But after over six decades of enchanting audiences with his velvety voice, Johnny Mathis, the legendary singer behind unforgettable hits like Misty and Chances Are, is preparing to take his final bow.

The 89-year-old icon now announces his retirement, due to age and memory decline.

Mathis will continue his Voice of Romance tour through the spring, with his final performance scheduled for May 18 at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey.

However, fans who were hoping to see him beyond June 2025 are out of luck —Mathis’ team announced that all shows slated for after June 2025 have been officially canceled.
Johnny Mathis says goodbye – struggles with memory decline
The announcement, posted on Wednesday, included a heartfelt message:

“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 his unforgettable ballads and velvet-voice.

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 iconic and beloved figures in American music.

Mathis studied classical music as a child and began singing professionally at the age of 13. Mathis’s father, a vaudeville singer and pianist, quickly recognized his son’s natural talent. Determined to nurture it, he bought an old upright piano for just $25 (equivalent to $447 today) and fully supported his son’s musical journey.

While growing up in San Francisco, Mathis crossed paths with jazz legends performing in the city, finding deep inspiration in the legendary Duke Ellington.

“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 shared in 1990.
Johnny Mathis says goodbye – struggles with memory decline
Mathis’ breakthrough came in 1957 with the massive hits Chances Are and It’s Not for Me to Say, solidifying his place in pop music history. That same year, his album Johnny’s Greatest Hits broke records, staying on the Billboard charts for an astounding 490 consecutive weeks.

Mathis’ career only flourished from there. With over 70 albums under his belt and more than 350 million records sold worldwide, his contributions to music have left an indelible mark. His classics, including Wonderful! Wonderful!, The Twelfth of Never, and his festive holiday albums, have become synonymous with romance and nostalgia. His voice, smooth and soothing, earned him the beloved title of ”The Voice of Romance.”

Lifetime achievement award
Mathis’ impressive career has not only been commercially successful but has been met with well-deserved accolades.

In 2003, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammy Awards. He also earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was inducted into the Great American Songbook Hall of Fame.

As Johnny Mathis prepares for his final tour, we are left reflecting on the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His music will continue to inspire and touch hearts for years to come. Mathis has announced that refunds for the canceled shows will be processed through the original point of purchase, so fans can rest assured that their tickets will be handled appropriately.
Johnny Mathis says goodbye – struggles with memory decline
It’s a poignant moment as Mathis takes a step back from the stage, but his influence on music will live on. Here’s to Johnny Mathis, whose voice will forever echo in our hearts.