Jeff Lynne‘s Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), a band established in 2014 as a resurgence of one of the most iconic bands in rock history, is getting set to launch some landmark operations by next year. The group—which has ruled the music world for a decade, achieving some of the greatest feats, including an album that debuted at No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart and also ranked highly worldwide—will be rounding off with its final tour. But for Jeff Lynne, retirement doesn’t seem to be in the cards just yet.
However, Jeff Lynne, the founder of ELO, recently shared some intriguing news about the group as well as his own career path in the wake of the imminent disbandment.
Jeff Lynne says he’s not ready for retirement
In an interview with Mojo, the 76-year-old revealed that ELO will officially cease to exist by next year after the final show of its Over and Out Tour on July 13 at London’s Hyde Park. Despite this major announcement, Lynne emphasized that contrary to speculations, he has not considered retiring as his passion for music remains undiminished.
Reflecting on his decades-long career, he noted that even though he enjoyed the thrill and energy of live performances around the world, his priorities are evolving and in the coming years, he intends to shift his focus toward producing studio records, a process he has always deeply cherished.
Jeff Lynne admits he will miss live performances
Lynne acknowledged that the upcoming concert would undoubtedly be an extremely emotional and difficult experience for him. He understood that leaving the stage would be a bittersweet experience because he had always found performing live to be a highly fulfilling experience.
The singer added that he will particularly miss the unique connection he made with the audience during live performances, describing it as an important link. “I am always surprised and delighted by the crowds and the energy they bring,” Lynne stated.