Bob Seger, the legendary rock singer and songwriter behind hits like “Night Moves,” “Turn the Page,” and “Old Time Rock and Roll,” is no longer touring as of 2019. After over 50 years of performing and recording music, Seger decided to finally hang up his touring shoes at the age of 73.
Bob Seger’s Long Career
Bob Seger burst onto the music scene in 1961 with his band The Decibels and gained major success locally in Detroit with songs like “East Side Story.” He went solo in 1966 and scored his first national hit with 1968’s “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man.” But it was in 1976 that Seger truly broke through to mainstream success with the album Night Moves and its title track hit single. For the next several decades, Seger remained a staple of heartland rock radio with songs like “Still the Same,” “Hollywood Nights,” and “Like a Rock.” His studio and compilation albums continued selling well into the 2000s.
Seger toured steadily throughout his long career, developing a reputation for his passionate, high-energy live shows playing for legions of devoted fans across America. His final concert tour was in 2017-2018, when he played 36 shows to support his most recent album I Knew You When. The tour wrapped up on November 17, 2018 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.
Why Did Bob Seger Retire From Touring?
There were several factors that went into Bob Seger’s decision to stop touring after over 50 years on the road:
- Age – Seger was 73 when he embarked on his last tour and has said his shows require a lot of physical exertion that becomes harder with age.
- Health – Seger has suffered some injuries and health issues in recent years, including spinal surgery.
- Prioritizing family – Seger has two young children he wanted to spend more time with.
- Change of pace – After such a long career, Seger finally felt ready to take a break from the grueling schedule of touring and studio work.
Seger has explained that the physically demanding nature of his live shows made it impossible to continue much longer. His final tour was meant to be a farewell celebration and chance for fans to see him perform one last time.
What Has Seger Been Up To Since Retiring From Touring?
Though he’s no longer touring, retirement doesn’t mean Bob Seger is fading away entirely from music and public life. Some of his activities and interests in recent years include:
- Spending time with family – Seger has two young children he wanted to spend more time with.
- Charity work – He continues to be involved in charity work supporting American troops and families.
- Outdoor activities – Seger enjoys outdoor pastimes like sailing, motorcycling, and riding horses.
- Attending concerts – He still goes out to see live music as a fan and supporter of fellow artists.
- Songwriting – Seger hasn’t ruled out writing new music and songs, even if not touring.
Though his days on the road are done, it’s clear Bob Seger plans to keep active with his various hobbies and philanthropic efforts. Fans may hold out hope that he’ll return to the studio at some point for new material.
Will Seger Ever Tour Again?
Bob Seger has been adamant that his farewell tour in 2017-2018 was his last. “I’m really done,” he told Billboard. “I don’t want to go back out on the road.” He has stayed firm on this decision over the past few years since retiring from touring. Fans hoping Seger will change his mind for one more tour shouldn’t hold their breath – by all indications, the rock icon is committed to enjoying a lower-key life off the road.
Seger recognizes his shows require a huge amount of energy to deliver the powerful experience fans expect. At his age and health status, he likely doesn’t feel capable of putting on the level of show his reputation demands. Short of a major comeback announcement, Bob Seger has likely performed his last concert.
Will Seger’s Music Endure?
While Bob Seger may be retired from the stage, his music will undoubtedly continue entertaining and inspiring fans for generations to come. Seger’s catalog contains dozens of beloved songs that remain staples of classic rock radio. His tracks are sure to be featured in films, TV shows, and cultural events for decades to come.
Evidence of Seger’s enduring popularity and influence isn’t hard to find in modern music. Bands and artists across genres have cited him as an idol and inspiration. His songs are frequently covered by other musicians. “Old Time Rock and Roll” alone will live on forever as a classic rock anthem.
Though he may not be actively touring, Bob Seger’s musical legacy is rock solid. His recordings will be cherished by longtime devotees and discovered by new fans for years to come. Seger may have turned the page on touring, but his songs will never fade away.
Conclusion
Bob Seger’s decades-long career as a touring musician finally came to an end in late 2018 when the rock legend retired from the road at age 73. After hundreds of shows and countless miles traveled performing for fans across America, Seger decided it was time to spend more time with family and enjoy a less hectic lifestyle offstage. Though his diehard fans undoubtedly miss seeing Seger in concert, they can take comfort knowing his iconic catalog of heartland rock songs will endure for generations to come.