Aerosmith, the iconic Boston-based rock band, announced its retirement from touring on Friday, a decision precipitated by the enduring vocal challenges faced by frontman Steven Tyler.
“Sadly, it is clear, that a full recovery from his vocal injury is not possible.”
Tyler, 76, sustained a laryngeal fracture during a concert last September, an injury that has proven to be more debilitating than initially anticipated. Despite extensive medical treatment, the band concluded that a full vocal recovery is unattainable.
“As you know, Steven’s voice is an instrument like no other,” the band said in a statement. “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,” the statement read.
“We have made a heartbreaking and difficult, but necessary, decision – as a band of brothers – to retire from the touring stage,” the band continued. “We are grateful beyond words for everyone who was pumped to get on the road with us one last time.”
Aerosmith saluted their fans for supporting them during their 50-year career, and for cheering them on through their final tour.
“Thanks to you, our Blue Army, that spark caught flame and has been burning for over five decades,” the statement read. “Some of you have been with us since the beginning and all of you are the reason we made rock ‘n’ roll history. 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 concluded.
Aerosmith’s Social Media Statement:
“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. 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.
“We’ve always wanted to blow your mind when performing. As you know, Steven’s voice is an instrument like no other. 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.
“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.”
