All good things come to an end – just ask Elton John, who wrapped up his long and illustrious career as a touring artist in July 2023, playing his last-ever gig in Stockholm, Sweden. He’s not the only musician stepping back from the road this year – a host of fellow rock icons have announced their retirement. There are two caveats: the is that some are only retiring from touring, rather than ceasing to exist as a band, while the second is that musicians often do change their minds (we’re looking at you, Mötley Crüe, with your so-called ‘Cessation Of Touring’ contract). But here are nine bands who are definitely saying goodbye in 2023, so make sure you get your tickets before they disappear from the stage for good.
