Johnny Mathis is finally stepping away from a career of nearly seven decades. After many years of gracing fans with his ballads and voice, Johnny Mathis performed what may be his final concert on May 18, 2025. The performance was at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey, weeks after officially announcing his retirement from touring.
Fans gathered to celebrate his music, including classics like “Chances Are,” “Moon River,” and “Wonderful! Wonderful!” filling the theater one last time. It was an emotional evening, made even more special by the presence of Today weatherman Al Roker, a long-time fan.
Johnny Mathis’ retirement
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After the show, AI Roker shared a video of Johnny’s final performance with a beautiful caption. “Tonight, we were so lucky to be at the [Bergen PAC] to see the legendary Johnny Mathis for his very last concert,” He wrote and added that he had admired Mathis’ music since he was a child when his parents usually played it.
Johnny Mathis became known for his romantic vocals, which earned him the nickname “The velvet voice.” From his breakout hit “Chances Are” in 1957 to the 1978 “Too Much, Too Little, Too Late,” his songs have gone across generations. Mathis’ 1958 Merry Christmas album became a favorite that still graces homes every winter. Meanwhile, his influence is not just musical. BergenPAC recently honored Mathis before the concert, inducting him into the venue’s Walk of Fame. In a touching tribute, the center played video messages from music legends and entertainers like Patti LaBelle, Lionel Richie, Chaka Khan, Whoopi Goldberg, and Barry Manilow.
A final bow
Mathis first announced his retirement in March, noting the challenges of aging and memory issues that had begun to affect his performances. Though he had initially intended to continue touring into the fall, those plans were later canceled. The BergenPAC concert became his official farewell, allowing fans to say goodbye in person.
Even as he steps away from the stage, Johnny Mathis’ legacy continues through his recordings and the memories his music helped create. While he has no immediate plans for new projects, his team leaves the possibility that this goodbye may not be his last with music.