Aerosmith, the legendary rock band renowned for hits like “Dream On,” “Walk This Way,” and the 1998 film “Armageddon” theme song “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” has announced their retirement from touring due to irreversible damage to lead singer Steven Tyler’s vocal cords.
In a statement released on Friday, the band revealed that Tyler, who has been struggling with a vocal cord injury since last September’s “Peace Out: The Farewell Tour,” will not fully recover. Despite extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, the injury has proven to be permanent.
“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 said. “We have made a heartbreaking and difficult, but necessary, decision — as a band of brothers — to retire from the touring stage.”
Tyler’s powerful and distinctive voice has been central to Aerosmith’s identity since the band’s inception in 1970. His vocal prowess helped define classics such as “Love in an Elevator,” “Livin’ on the Edge,” and “Sweet Emotion.”
The injury occurred during what was intended to be the band’s final tour. Tyler had initially expressed optimism about his recovery, revealing on Instagram that the injury had caused bleeding but hoping to return to the stage after rescheduling a few shows. However, the damage has been more severe than anticipated.
The band underscored the significance of Tyler’s voice in their live performances, stating, “We’ve always wanted to blow your mind when performing. As you know, Steven’s voice is an instrument like no other.”
Aerosmith, consisting of Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton, and Joey Kramer, has left a lasting impact on rock music. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees and four-time Grammy winners have sold over 150 million records globally.
In their statement, the band expressed their appreciation to fans: “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.”
While Aerosmith’s touring days are over, it remains uncertain whether the band will continue to record new music or explore other performance opportunities.
Related topic:
Top 10 Best Country Music Songs
In Which Country Did Rock Music Originate?
Who Influenced Country Music Before Ken Burns Started It?