Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Glenn Hughes has announced his retirement from touring and live performances. The development also affects The Dead Daisies’ upcoming shows.
Hughes has been advised by his doctor to undergo open-heart surgery. As a result, he has decided to step back from live performances for the foreseeable future.
“Glenn Hughes Announcement: Live Shows Cancelled. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Glenn Hughes announces his retirement from touring and live performances,” the statement read. “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.”
Hughes also shared a personal message reflecting on his health journey and expressing gratitude to his fans.
“This past year, I’ve had some health issues,” Hughes said. “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.”
The Dead Daisies’ scheduled performances have also been impacted. The Canyon Agoura Hills confirmed the cancellation of their upcoming show.
“Unfortunately, The Dead Daisies with Glenn Hughes on October 2 will have to cancel,” the venue announced. “Artist health must always be a priority. We truly wish Glenn Hughes the best of luck with his surgery and recovery as he takes on this new chapter in life.”
No further details regarding a potential return to live performances have been announced at this time.
This latest development marks a significant turning point in the career of one of rock’s most enduring voices. It did not arrive without warning signs.
Hughes, 74, had already cancelled his 2026 U.S. spring tour earlier in the year due to what was described at the time as a minor health issue. That cancellation drew concern from fans and now appears to have been an early indicator of the more serious condition that has since come to light.
This is not Hughes’ first major medical challenge. He underwent surgery in 2013 to repair an enlarged aorta. The current open-heart procedure will be his second significant cardiac operation. The recurring nature of his heart-related health issues underscores the seriousness of his decision to step away from live performance entirely.
Hughes has built one of the most storied careers in rock history over the course of five decades. He is best known for his tenure with Deep Purple, but his work has also spanned Black Sabbath, Black Country Communion, Trapeze, and most recently The Dead Daisies. These contributions have cemented his reputation as one of the genre’s most versatile and celebrated figures.
Hughes has been a central figure in The Dead Daisies’ recent activity. His absence leaves a considerable void for a group that had been actively touring. The full extent of how the band will move forward remains unclear.
For now, the focus remains firmly on Hughes’ health and recovery. Fans and fellow musicians across the rock world have rallied with messages of support as the legendary artist prepares to face his most personal challenge yet.
