British supergroup The Hollies have announced an end to touring after more than six decades of continuous performances.
Despite changes in line-ups over that time, the group, which has sold more than 60 million records, has never disbanded.
Tony Hicks and Bobby Elliott, who both joined the group in 1963, released a statement this week saying that Hicks had decided to step away from touring for health reasons.
“Out of respect for Tony and everything they have shared throughout their remarkable journey together, Bobby has also decided to retire from touring,” the group said in a statement.
“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.”
The group’s big hits include:
He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother (1969)
Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress) (1972)
Bus Stop (1966)
The Air That I Breathe (1974)
Carrie Anne (1967)
Stop, Stop, Stop (1966)
I’m Alive (1965)
Just One Look (1964)
The Hollies were formed in Salford, England, in 1962 by Allan Clarke and Graham Nash.
They were regarded as one of the most successful British bands of the 1960s and 1970s, with the first successful line-up consisting of Clarke, Nash, Hicks, bassist Eric Haydock, and drummer Don Rathbone.
Rathbone was replaced by Bobby Elliott in late 1963, while Haydock was replaced by Bernie Calvert in mid-1966.
Nash left the group in late 1968 to co-form Crosby, Stills & Nash, and was replaced by Terry Sylvester. Nash returned briefly during the 1980s.
