A event around Northeast Ohio was always when Southside Johnny came to town. Whether it was at the Coliseum, Blossom, Cleveland Stadium or more recently at The Kent Stage you knew you were going to get your money’s worth from a Southside show.
After more than 50yrs on the road, the legendary Southside Johnny Lyon is retiring from touring.
“After a hugely successful 50-year run with his band Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, touring non-stop throughout the U.S and overseas, ‘Southside Johnny’ Lyon has made the decision to retire from touring in order to manage ongoing health issues,” reads the statement from Southside Johnny’s management.
On Dec. 14, Southside Johnny left the stage midway through the Asbury Jukes’ show at the Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia. The show was completed without Southside, who did not return.
The 76-year-old Southside was “exhausted” when he left the stage, said a representative. Southside’s representative James Sliman had no comment when asked about the specifics of the health issues, and whether this means just no more touring or no more shows at all.
We hope John’s health improves and he has a long and happy retirement.
