Farewell to Legends: The Final Concerts of Classic Rock Icons in 2025
In 2025, five of classic rock’s most cherished artists bid adieu to the concert stage, each leaving behind a legacy that will resonate for generations. Here are the stories of their final shows:
The Who
After nearly 45 years since their first farewell tour, The Who concluded their 2025 ‘The Song is Over’ farewell tour with a memorable performance on October 1 at the Acrisure Arena in Thousand Palms, California. The band opted not to take this tour to the UK or Europe, citing the challenges of touring in those regions.
As the concert drew to a close, guitarist Pete Townshend poignantly expressed, “I suppose, you know, it’s goodbye. To what we know as the Who, it’s goodbye.” He left a glimmer of hope for future collaborations with fellow founding member Roger Daltrey, while firmly stating, “But for this kind of thing, it’s goodbye. And you were last!”
Watch the Last Show of The Who’s ‘The Song is Over’ Farewell Tour
Jeff Lynne / Electric Light Orchestra
Following a successful 31-date North American leg of their ‘Over and Out’ farewell tour in 2024, Jeff Lynne’s ELO faced a setback in 2025 when they had to cancel the final two shows of a planned five-date tour in England. Lynne suffered a broken left hand, which prevented him from performing at the July 5 opener, and a subsequent illness led to the cancellation of their shows in Manchester and London.
“I am now at home recovering,” Lynne shared with fans. “I was absolutely gutted to have to cancel the final two shows. I send my heartfelt thanks to all of the fans as well as my band and crew for all their support and love.”
Watch Jeff Lynne’s ELO Perform Their Final Show
Ozzy Osbourne / Black Sabbath
After enduring years of health struggles and postponements, Ozzy Osbourne finally achieved his long-awaited farewell with the star-studded ‘Back to the Beginning’ show on July 5, 2025. The event featured numerous hard rock and metal icons who paid tribute to Osbourne and Black Sabbath with cover performances.
Osbourne closed the monumental live-streamed event with a solo set, followed by a final performance alongside his original bandmates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. Tragically, less than three weeks later, Osbourne passed away at the age of 76. His death marked the end of any potential future activity under the Black Sabbath name, as he had not performed with the band since their last farewell tour in 2017.
Watch Ozzy Osbourne’s Final Show
David Coverdale / Whitesnake
After a series of health issues hindered Whitesnake’s farewell tour, David Coverdale announced his retirement in November 2025, over three years since their last performance on June 23, 2022, at Hellfest in France. Coverdale reflected on his extensive career, including his time with Deep Purple and Whitesnake, stating, “It’s time really for me to hang up my rock ‘n’ roll platform shoes and my skintight jeans.”
He added, “I love you dearly. I thank everyone who’s assisted and supported me on this incredible journey. But it really is time for me to just enjoy my retirement, and I hope you can appreciate that.”
Watch Whitesnake’s Last Show
Ace Frehley
Ace Frehley maintained a vibrant performance schedule over the past two decades, culminating in his final concert on September 5, 2025, in Providence, Rhode Island. Sadly, just six weeks later, Frehley passed away on October 16 at the age of 74 due to injuries from a fall at his home studio.
Despite his untimely death, Frehley was honored posthumously with the Kennedy Center Honors award in August. He referred to the recognition as “a dream come true that I never thought would materialize.”
Watch Ace Frehley’s Final Performance
Conclusion
The farewell shows of these legendary rock artists in 2025 marked the end of an era in music history. Each artist left an indelible mark on the world of rock, and their final performances were a testament to their enduring legacies. As fans reflect on these poignant moments, the music of these icons will continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.
FAQs
1. Why did The Who not tour in the UK or Europe for their farewell tour?
The Who cited difficulties associated with touring in the UK and Europe as the reason for not bringing their farewell tour to those regions.
2. What caused the cancellation of Jeff Lynne’s final shows?
Jeff Lynne suffered a broken left hand and later an unspecified illness, which led to the cancellation of the last two shows of their farewells tour in England.
3. How did Ozzy Osbourne’s final performance come to an end?
Ozzy Osbourne’s final performance included a solo set followed by a collaboration with his original Black Sabbath bandmates, marking a significant moment in rock history.
4. What led to David Coverdale’s retirement announcement?
David Coverdale announced his retirement after facing health challenges that had previously interrupted Whitesnake’s farewell tour.
5. How did Ace Frehley receive recognition posthumously?
Ace Frehley was honored with the Kennedy Center Honors award, which he described as a dream come true before his passing.
