Legendary singer-songwriter Paul Simon has canceled two scheduled performances on his A Quiet Celebration Tour due to what his team has described as “unmanageable” back pain.
The 83-year-old artist made the announcement via Instagram on Friday, confirming that both shows set for June 28 and 29 at Philadelphia’s Academy of Music would not proceed as planned.
“Regretfully, Paul must cancel two shows tonight, June 28, and tomorrow night, June 29, at Philadelphia’s Academy of Music,” the statement read.
“Paul has been struggling with chronic and intense back pain. Today, it has become unmanageable and demands immediate attention. Unfortunately, we have to cancel these shows at this time, as we don’t have the ability to reschedule them.”
Simon is also scheduled to undergo a minor surgical procedure in the coming days to address the issue. While future performance dates remain unaffected for now, the statement acknowledged that efforts to reschedule the Philadelphia shows are not currently feasible.
“However, we are hopeful after this minor surgical procedure which has been scheduled in the next few days, Paul will be able to complete the tour as well as look into returning to make up these dates,” the statement continued. “In the meantime, please go to your point of purchase or local ticket provider for a full refund.”
The tour has marked a significant return to the stage for Simon, who in recent years has largely stepped back from live performances due to hearing loss. The A Quiet Celebration Tour has been received as a deeply personal and reflective journey through Simon’s extensive catalog.
Fans and concertgoers expressed their well wishes on social media following the announcement, many hoping for a swift recovery and a return to the stage later in the tour.
Simon, known for his work as a solo artist and as half of the iconic duo Simon & Garfunkel, has remained a towering figure in American music for over six decades. His influence spans generations, with classics such as “The Sound of Silence,” “Graceland,” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water” remaining staples in the cultural canon.
At this time, no further cancellations have been announced. Updates on Simon’s recovery and tour schedule are expected in the coming weeks. For refunds, ticket holders are advised to contact their original point of purchase.