Founding the rock band Electric Light Orchestra in 1970, Jeff Lynne gained a following with songs like “Mr. Blue Sky” and “Don’t Bring Me Down.” Now 77, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer planned to wrap up his career with a bang, embarking on the Over and Out Tour in August 2024. Sadly, a mysterious illness recently forced Lynne to cancel ELO’s second-last tour ever. And sadly, the band has announced they must also scrap their career finale as that illness persists.
Videos by American Songwriter
Jeff Lynne Is Still Unable to Perform At Final Electric Light Orchestra Show
Taking to their X/Twitter account, Electric Light Orchestra announced a day ahead of their July 13 BST Hyde Park show that a “heartbroken” Jeff Lynne is still too unwell to perform.
As the Songwriter Hall of Fame member continues to battle “a systemic infection,” doctors have advised him that taking the stage “is simply not possible at this time nor will he be able to reschedule.”
“The legacy of the band and his longtime fans are foremost in Jeff’s mind today — and while he is so sorry that he cannot perform, he knows that he must focus on his health and rehabilitation at this time,” the statement read.
— Jeff Lynne's ELO (@JeffLynnesELO) July 12, 2025
Ticketholders can visit bst-hydepark.com for information regarding refunds.
Online, fans wished the “Evil Woman” crooner speedy healing. “Get well soon Jeff. We were at Manchester on Wednesday and were concerned about you then xx,” one fan wrote on X/Twitter. “so glad we got to see you perform and was one of the best concerts we’ve seen.”
“This Is Not a Farewell to Music”
While this tour marked the end of Electric Light Orchestra, Jeff Lynne has insisted that his performing days are not behind him.
“I am happy with what I’ve done, and the crowd reactions to the shows and the music have been amazing,” the former Traveling Wilbury told Mojo in December 2024. “This is not a farewell to music. I am excited to return to the studio full-time, which is what I love!”
Featured image by Dimitrios Kambouris/WireImage for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.