Beloved pop singer Johnny Mathis announces retirement

Veteran U.S. musician Johnny Mathis has announced that he will be bringing an end to touring and performing at live concerts.

The statement on Facebook read, “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’s age and memory issues which have accelerated, we are announcing his retirement from touring and live concerts.”

It continued, “Johnny Mathis and his entire staff send their heartfelt gratitude to all Mathis fans worldwide for your continued love and support of his music! It’s truly been ‘Wonderful, Wonderful.’”

Although he had several shows scheduled for the year, he will only be taking on 4 more before ending on May 18 at Englewood, New Jersey.

Mathis is commonly considered to be one of the country’s great romantic balladeers. He boasts a collection of festive classics that can still be heard often today including When a Child Is Born, Sleigh Ride and It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.

He previously discussed how his health would play a role in how long his career would be, “It revolves around whether or not you’re physically able and in good health. That’s the most important thing because you won’t feel like doing anything if you’re not healthy. And being a vocalist, you have another thing to worry about. The vocals cords are flesh and blood so anything can happen to them … You take care of the thing that got you to the dance.”