5 Classic Rock Groups That Ought to Consider Retirement in 2024
via Jim Powers / YouTube
Rock ‘n’ roll never dies, or so the saying goes. Yet, even the greatest rock anthems come to a fade-out, and the icons behind them eventually step away from the limelight. The endurance of classic rock bands often astounds fans and critics alike, as year after year, these legends fill stadiums and enrapture audiences with their timeless music. However, as the years roll on, even everlasting rockers must face the music when it comes to the inevitable slowdown of a long and vibrant career. Below we examine five classic rock groups who, despite their indelible contributions to music history, might want to consider hanging up their guitars and taking a well-deserved final bow in 2024.
Motley Crue
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When it comes to Motley Crue, it feels like the band has been hinting at retirement longer than some musicians’ entire careers. They’ve embarked on farewell tours that seem to drag on endlessly, much like a star athlete who announces retirement only to return season after season. It’s become a bit of a joke, really. The guys are no longer the wild rockers they once were; age and a healthier lifestyle have quieted the once notorious band.
Yet, there’s a certain sadness in watching these rockers refuse to leave the stage. Their relentless touring begs the question: what’s a band to do when their most notorious days are behind them? After their peak with the album “Dr. Feelgood,” the buzz around the band has faded, and their continuing to tour feels like an attempt to grasp at a bygone era. Perhaps it’s time for them to bow out and make room for fresh blood.
Aerosmith
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Aerosmith’s so-called Peace Out tour in 2023 started with great energy but quickly hit a wall. Just a handful of shows in, and they’ve already experienced a significant setback. Steven Tyler’s vocal cords have failed him, and now all eyes are on 2024 for their return. It leaves one to wonder if they’re pushing their luck.
What started as a brief hiccup in their plans has turned into an indefinite hiatus, leaving many fans in limbo. Is this an omen for Aerosmith’s future? Even Joe Perry seems uncertain, optimistically hoping for a comeback in the latter half of 2024. Yet, with each member now well into their 70s, the band’s resilience is under scrutiny. They’ve had an exceptional run, but perhaps it’s time to seriously consider a final bow.
Eagles
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As for the Eagles, they’ve successfully milked their nostalgic hits, touring with a formula that keeps their long-time fans happy. But they’re not the same band without Glenn Frey, and the reunion felt like it should have been a brief homage to their heydays rather than an extended cash grab. Now, it’s less about adding anything new to their legacy and more about reminding people what used to be.
The band’s dynamic has noticeably shifted, and with it, so has the energy of their performances. Classic tracks like “Hotel California” still bring everyone to their feet, but the magic isn’t quite the same. With a career that spans decades, it might be time for the Eagles to enjoy their legacy rather than continuing to cover ground they’ve already mastered.
The Rolling Stones
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Meanwhile, The Rolling Stones seem almost immortal, with Mick Jagger’s on-stage moves defying his age, but even legends have their limits. The bands’ members are all well into their 70s and 80s, making their relentless touring schedule appear as though they’re defying time itself.
Each concert brings up the question of “will this be their last?” To the Stones’ credit, they’ve managed to keep the concerts coming and the fans satisfied, but at some point, every performer must take a final bow. As they’ve rocked through generations, there’s a dignity in recognizing the perfect moment to exit and let the curtains close on a high note.
AC/DC
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Finally, there’s AC/DC, whose rift-heavy rock anthems have thundered through speakers for ages. After the loss of Malcolm Young and the departure of Brian Johnson due to hearing issues (though he has since rejoined), the band isn’t what it once was. Axl Rose stepping in as a guest vocalist was a twist, but fans can’t help but feel the band’s identity slipping away.
The group has been relentless, but as they churn out tours, the strain is showing. AC/DC’s signature sound thrives on raw energy, something that naturally fades over time. It may be wise for these icons to channel their remaining vigor into a farewell tour that gives fans a thunderous finale worthy of their legacy.
