BOSTON -- Neil Diamond has had a presence on th Billboard music charts for more than 40 years and his song "Sweet Caroline" is a fan-favorite at Fenway, but Monday night the musician announced his retirement following a Parkinson's Disease diagnosis.
Rolling Stone was the first to report Diamond's retirement, citing a post on his website about the mid-tour cancellation of shows on his shows in Australia and New Zealand.
"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," said Diamond in a lengthy post. "My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows."
Diamond will turn 77 this month.
"My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world. You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good’ thanks to you," he said.
In addition to "Sweet Caroline," Diamond's numerous hits include ''America," ''Love on the Rocks" and "Hello Again."
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