GLENN HUGHES announces retirement from touring and live performances
05-08-2026
Legendary DEEP PURPLE bassist/vocalist Glenn Hughes has announced his retirement from touring and live performances.
Upon his doctor’s advice, Glenn, who will turn 75 later this month, will have to undergo heart surgery and has made the difficult decision to step back from live performances for the foreseeable future.
Glenn comments: “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. 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.”
– Your friend Glenn
Glenn‘s most recent live performance took place on May 30, 2026 at the legendary Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, Illinois when he reunited with THE DEAD DAISIES. Glenn joined guitarist Doug Aldrich, drummer Tommy Clufetos and guitarist David Lowy for this rare performance — under THE PURPLE DAISIES banner — delivering a 50/50 split set, kicking off with 10 of THE DEAD DAISIES‘ favorite tracks followed by almost as many iconic DEEP PURPLE classics. Following the incredible response to the sold-out St. Charles concert, THE PURPLE DAISIES announced a second show on October 2, 2026, at The Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, California. However, as a result of Glenn‘s retirement, the Agoura Hills concert has now been canceled.
This past January, Glenn canceled his spring 2026 USA tour due to what was described at the time as a “minor health issue” that required his attention over the ensuing months.
Glenn‘s latest solo album, “Chosen”, came out on September 5, 2025 via Frontiers Music Srl.
Glenn collaborated with Robbie Williams on his single “Rocket”, which was released on May 22, 2025. The track also features a collaboration from Iommi and was the first time Glenn had been featured on a record with Tony since 2005, when they released “Fused” together.
Glenn also recently joined forces with SATCHVAI, a new collaboration by legendary guitar icons Joe Satriani and Steve Vai, by writing and singing on their single “I Wanna Play My Guitar”.
