Legendary singer-songwriter Neil Diamond announced today he’e been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. He’s immediately giving up touring, and has canceled shows in Australia and New Zealand.
Diamond, who will be 78 this week, says he will continue to write and record, however.
“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,” he says .”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. You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good’ thanks to you.”
Diamond will be honored this weekend by the Grammy Awards with a tribute on Sunday night’s show and a lifetime achievement award. His massive number of hits include “Sweet Caroline,” “I’m a Believer,” “Solitary Man,” “Song Sung Blue,” “Cherry Oh Baby,” “Coming to America,” and so on and so on.
Parkinson’s is not a death sentence, as demonstrated by Michael J. Fox, the late Muhammad Ali, and so many others who’ve courageously fought it. Neil Diamond certainly isn’t going to let it get the best of him!
#Neil Diamond So,so sorry to hear about the great Neil Diamond’s illness. I’m rooting for you Neil! Fight on from another Brooklyn boy!
— Barry Manilow (@barrymanilow) January 23, 2018
