Jeff Scott Soto has shared an emotional response to Glenn Hughes’ retirement announcement.
Glenn Hughes, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, recently announced his retirement from touring and live performances. The decision followed his doctor’s advice to undergo heart surgery. Soto took to social media to express his feelings about the news and reflect on his shared memories with Hughes.
“Sad to hear this news, godspeed Glenn, you got this sir!!” Soto said. “I’m so happy I have an incredible amount of live memories with you both onstage or merely watching you do your THANG!!”
Soto also offered words of encouragement, acknowledging the challenges that come with age while expressing his faith in Hughes.
“Father Time is against us now but we know many ways on how to sneak around him, God Bless Papa Hughes!!” he continued.
Hughes confirmed that the decision was made upon medical advice. The legendary musician is stepping back from live performances for the foreseeable future as he prepares for heart surgery.
The retirement marks the end of an era for one of hard rock’s most enduring voices. His career has spanned more than five decades and left a permanent mark on the genre.
Hughes built his reputation as a singer and bassist across some of rock’s most iconic acts, including Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, and Black Country Communion. His versatility and powerful vocal range earned him the title “The Voice of Rock,” a distinction that followed him throughout his career.
This is not Hughes’ first serious health battle. He underwent surgery in 2013 to repair an enlarged aorta. The current retirement decision follows further medical tests — including MRIs, CT scans, and an echocardiogram — which revealed the need for another open-heart surgery.
At 74, Hughes has made clear that his health must now take priority over performing. The decision reflects the seriousness of his medical situation and the advice of his doctors.
Soto’s reaction speaks to the deep bonds formed over years of shared stages and mutual respect within the rock community. His words captured the sentiment felt by many fans and fellow musicians who have followed Hughes’ remarkable journey across decades of live performance.
Source: instagram.com/p/DbocZzISY5U
