Paul Simon, the acclaimed singer-songwriter famed for his work with Art Garfunkel and his solo career, has canceled multiple East Coast concerts due to chronic and intense back pain that necessitates minor surgery. The 83-year-old artist shared the news on his Instagram account, stating that the procedure is planned for the next few days, with hopes of resuming the tour.
Simon’s decision to cancel the performances at Philadelphia’s Academy of Music was met with disappointment from fans, but the artist expressed optimism about his recovery. The statement also mentioned that the shows could not be rescheduled, and fans were encouraged to seek refunds from their ticket providers. This health issue adds to Simon’s recent challenges, including hearing loss, which has already impacted his touring schedule and performance settings.
Apart from the back pain, Simon has been openly discussing his hearing loss, a condition he mentioned in a recent interview. This loss has influenced his choice of venues, shifting towards smaller, more intimate settings where the acoustics are better suited to his current abilities. His wife, Edie Brickell, has been a significant part of his recent tours, performing a duet with him in the closing section of his latest album, which includes the poignant lyrics,