Rock legend Glenn Hughes has announced his retirement from live performances after revealing he needs open-heart surgery.
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The 74-year-old singer and bassist is best known for his work with Deep Purple, Trapeze, Black Sabbath, Black Country Communion and The Dead Daisies.
He shared the news in an emotional statement to fans.
Rock Legend Glenn Hughes Shares Health Update
Hughes announced on social media Tuesday that he is stepping away from touring on the advice of his doctors.
"Upon his Doctor's advice, Glenn will have to undergo heart surgery and has made the difficult decision to step back from live performances for the foreseeable future," a statement read.
The post also included a personal message from Hughes, who explained the seriousness of his condition.
"This past year, I've had some health issues. The results from numerous MRIs, CT scans, and an echocardiogram have alerted my medical team, that I need another open-heart surgery," he wrote.
"I really have no option and no choice as health is my number one priority. Grateful to have been chosen with a life full with the gift of music... Thank you for walking beside me."
The announcement marks another setback for Hughes, whose health has disrupted his touring schedule in recent years.
In January, he canceled a planned six-week U.S. spring tour, citing "a minor health issue that requires [my] attention over the upcoming months."
Glenn Hughes Reflects on Legendary Career
Hughes joined Deep Purple in 1973 after recording three albums with Trapeze.
He became a key member of the band's Mark III and Mark IV lineups, performing on the classic albums Burn, Stormbringer and Come Taste the Band.
Beyond Deep Purple, Hughes appeared on Black Sabbath's 1986 album Seventh Star. He also recorded five studio albums with Black Country Communion and two with The Dead Daisies.
His solo career spanned nearly five decades, beginning with 1977's Play Me Out.
Hughes released a total of 15 solo albums, with his latest, Chosen, arriving in 2025. It marked his first solo release in nine years and only his second in the previous 17 years.
Now, as he prepares to undergo open-heart surgery, Hughes has brought his celebrated touring career to a close while focusing on his recovery.
