The Hollies have announced they are retiring from touring after six incredible decades performing together.
The iconic Brit pop group, formed in Manchester in 1962, have had an evolving line-up over the years.
On Thursday, the band revealed their touring days have come to an end ‘out of respect’ for guitarist Tony Hicks, 80, who stepped away due to ill health.
The band wrote in a statement on Instagram: ‘Due to health reasons, Tony has decided to step away from touring.
‘Out of respect for Tony and everything they have shared throughout their remarkable journey together, Bobby has also decided to retire from touring.
‘After more than six decades, The Hollies’ touring career will come to a close with immense gratitude to the fans who have supported them around the world.’
Fans were left upset after hearing news of their retirement as they took to the comments section to share messages.
The Hollies have announced they are retiring from touring after six decades (Bobby Elliott, Graham Nash, Eric Haydock, Tony Hicks and Allan Clarke pictured in 1965)
On Thursday, the band revealed their touring days have come to an end ‘out of respect’ for guitarist Tony Hicks, 80, who stepped away due to ill health (pictured)
The iconic Brit pop group, formed in Manchester in 1962, has had an evolving line-up over the years
Fans were left upset after hearing news of their retirement as they took to the comments section to share messages
Users wrote: ‘This is gutting. Lots of love to Tony and Bobby who have worked their socks off over the past 60+ years, to put it lightly! One of the greatest bands of the era. Very sorry I never saw you. Happy retirement. ,’
‘Tony and Bobby are the 2 most underrated musicians of the British Invasion’, ‘man … I’m sad to hear this but I’m glad everyones prioritizing their health. LONG LIVE THE HOLLIES,’
‘I’m sad I never got to see them live but I’m glad that he is putting his health first.’
The Hollies found fame in the 60s as a pop/rock group best known for their distinctive three-part vocal harmony style.
They became one if the leading British groups of the decade, managing to maintain 231 weeks on the UK singles charts – the ninth highest of any artist of the decade.
The group was formed by Allan Clarke and Graham Nash in 1962 and saw a number of shake-ups in the line-up over their long performing history.
In March 2010, Eric Haydock, along with Allan Clarke, Graham Nash, Tony, Bobby Elliott, Bernie Calvert and Terry Sylvester were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Among his many achievements, Eric was one of the first British musicians to play a Fender Bass VI, a six-string bass.
