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The onset of the disease has made it difficult
for him to travel and perform on a large-scale, a statement on
the site said, adding he will be cancelling upcoming concert
dates in Australia and New Zealand and offering refunds.
"It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce
my retirement from concert touring. I have been so honored to
bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years," Diamond
said in the statement, offering apologies to those who purchased
tickets to his upcoming shows.
Diamond, known for hits including "Sweet Caroline" and "Cracklin'
Rosie," said he plans to remain active in song writing and
recording.
Later this week, Diamond will turn 77 and on Sunday the
Recording Academy plans to honor him with its Lifetime
Achievement Award.
Diamond has sold more than 130 million albums worldwide and 38
of his singles have made it to the Top 40, according to the
academy.
Grammy-award winner Diamond, a fixture in American pop music
since he began recording in the 1960s, has been inducted into
the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
"My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the
world. You will always have my appreciation for your support and
encouragement," Diamond said.
"This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good’ thanks to you,"
he said.
(Reporting by Jon Herskovitz in Austin, Texas; Editing by Neil
Fullick)
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