Paul Simon Says Hearing Loss May Stop Him From Touring Ever Again
Posted May 24, 2023 by: Admin
Paul Simon, the legendary singer-songwriter, has recently encountered an unexpected obstacle that may bring his performing career to a close. In a candid interview with London’s The Times, Simon openly discussed his health and the uncertainty he now faces in the world of music.
Simon initially became aware of his hearing issues while working on his latest album, “Seven Psalms,” which was released on May 19. Expressing his concern, he shared, “Quite suddenly, I lost most of the hearing in my left ear, and the medical professionals have yet to provide an explanation. This has undoubtedly made everything more challenging for me.”
The 81-year-old musician had initially hoped that the problem would resolve itself over time. He admitted to feeling frustration and annoyance, but not quite anger, as he remained optimistic about a potential recovery. However, Simon’s hearing loss has persisted, leaving him uncertain about his future appearances on stage.
Reflecting on his extensive catalog of songs, the 12-time Grammy winner acknowledged his evolving relationship with his music. “The songs of mine that I don’t feel compelled to perform live, I choose not to sing them,” he shared. Simon described moments during his tours when he questioned his own artistic direction, particularly when performing the popular track “You Can Call Me Al.” He often contemplated whether he was unintentionally imitating a cover band of his own music and pondered retiring from the road altogether.
It’s worth noting that Simon has previously flirted with the idea of retirement. In 2018, he made a statement on his website announcing his decision to conclude touring and recording. At the time, he confessed to experiencing mixed emotions, describing the sensation as both unsettling and exhilarating, while also feeling a sense of relief.
