Once the nation’s most beloved crooner and a favorite among generations of fans, Johnny Mathis has captivated audiences for over six decades with his signature smooth voice. Known for unforgettable hits like Misty and Chances Are, the legendary singer is now preparing to step away from the spotlight.
At 89 years old, Mathis has announced his retirement, citing the challenges of aging and memory decline. Despite these personal struggles, he will continue to grace stages with his Voice of Romance tour, set to conclude on May 18 at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey.
However, for fans hoping to see him perform beyond June 2025, it’s a bittersweet farewell, as Mathis’ team has confirmed that all performances after that date have been canceled.
On Wednesday, a heartfelt announcement was made, sharing bittersweet news with fans:
“As many of you may know, Johnny Mathis is nearing his 90th birthday this year. It is with deep sadness that we announce his retirement from touring and live performances due to Mr. Mathis’ advancing age and memory challenges.”
This marks a poignant farewell to a music legend who has enchanted audiences for decades with his timeless ballads and unmistakable smooth voice.
The Voice of Romance
Born on September 30, 1935, in Gilmer, Texas, and raised in San Francisco, California, Johnny Mathis became a household name for his romantic ballads that resonated with generations of listeners. His unique style quickly cemented his place as one of the most beloved figures in American music.
Mathis’ journey began at a young age. By 13, he was already honing his craft, studying classical music and developing his passion for singing. His father, a vaudeville performer and pianist, saw the spark in his son and fully supported his budding musical talent. To fuel Johnny’s dreams, he bought an old upright piano for just $25—equivalent to about $447 today.
Growing up in San Francisco, Mathis was surrounded by jazz legends who performed in the area, with one particular figure leaving a lasting impact on him: Duke Ellington.
“Ellington was one of my heroes because of his intellect. He was a stylish man, sophisticated without being pompous or arrogant, and his music absolutely reflected his appearance,” Mathis recalled in a 1990 interview.
Ellington’s influence helped shape Mathis’ distinctive sound, one that would go on to captivate audiences and make him an icon in the world of music.
Johnny Mathis reached a monumental milestone in 1957 with his chart-topping hits “Chances Are” and “It’s Not for Me to Say,” songs that solidified his place in pop music history. That same year, his album Johnny’s Greatest Hits broke records by remaining on the Billboard charts for an astonishing 490 consecutive weeks.
From there, Mathis’ career soared. With over 70 albums and more than 350 million records sold worldwide, his influence on the music industry is undeniable. Iconic songs like Wonderful! Wonderful!, The Twelfth of Never, and his cherished holiday albums have come to represent timeless romance and nostalgia. His rich, velvety voice earned him the enduring moniker of “The Voice of Romance.”
A Lifetime of Achievement
Mathis’ extraordinary career has been marked not only by commercial success but also by widespread recognition. In 2003, he received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammy Awards. He was also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and inducted into the Great American Songbook Hall of Fame, further cementing his legacy as one of the most celebrated artists in American music.
As Johnny Mathis prepares for his final tour, we celebrate the immense legacy he leaves behind. His music will continue to inspire and evoke cherished memories for generations to come. Mathis has also ensured that refunds for canceled shows will be processed at the original point of purchase, offering peace of mind to fans who had hoped to see him perform live one last time.
As Johnny Mathis takes his final bow from the stage, it’s a bittersweet farewell, but his legacy in music will live on forever. His songs will continue to touch our hearts for generations to come. Here’s to Johnny Mathis, whose voice will always echo in our memories.
Do you have a favorite Johnny Mathis song that has a special place in your heart? Share it with us in the comments below!