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Legendary arena rockers announce retirement after five decades: ‘You’ve made our dreams come true’

August 3, 2024 | | Print Article

Aerosmith announced that they are retiring, bringing an end to the career of one of America’s most iconic and beloved rock and roll bands.

On Friday, the group released a statement announcing that it would be calling it quits after singer Steven Tyler damaged his vocal cords and fractured his larynx last September, officially canceling their “Peace Out” farewell tour.

“It was 1970 when a spark of inspiration became Aerosmith. Thanks to you, our Blue Army, that spark caught flame and has been burning for over five decades. Some of you have been with us since the beginning and all of you are the reason we made rock ‘n’ roll history,” the Boston-based rockers said in a statement posted to social media.

“It has been the honor of our lives to have our music become part of yours. In every club, on every massive tour and at moments grand and private you have given us a place in the soundtrack of your lives,” the band said.

“As you know, Steven’s voice is an instrument like no other,” the statement read. “He has spent months tirelessly working on getting his voice to where it was before his injury. We’ve seen him struggling despite having the best medical team by his side. Sadly, it is clear, that a full recovery from his vocal injury is not possible. We have made a heartbreaking and difficult, but necessary, decision — as a band of brothers — to retire from the touring stage.”

Formed in Beantown in 1970, Aerosmith was one of the top bands from the golden era of classic hard rock with few having the staying power of Tyler, guitarists Joe Perry and Brad Whitford, bassist Tom Hamilton, and drummer Joey Kramer who exploded onto the scene with their anthems “Dream On” and “Sweet Emotion,” going on to tour for half a century during which they cranked out numerous hits.

“We are shocked and saddened by this news from earlier today. Nothing but love and respect to our friends in [Aerosmith]. Heartfelt thanks for all of the incredible memories,” opening act The Black Crowes wrote in a post to X.

“We are grateful beyond words for everyone who was pumped to get on the road with us one last time. Grateful to our expert crew, our incredible team and the thousands of talented people who’ve made our historic runs possible. A final thank you to you – the best fans on planet Earth. Play our music loud, now and always. Dream On. You’ve made our dreams come true,” Aerosmith said in its statement.

The band also announced that all tickets purchased by fans will be fully refunded.

Chris Donaldson
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