Aerosmith bassist Tom Hamilton expressed mixed feelings about the band’s decision to retire from touring, admitting he felt “surprised but not shocked” by the news.
The iconic hard rock band, known for over five decades of unforgettable live performances, announced their retirement in early August, prompting praise from fellow musicians like Sammy Hagar and Nikki Sixx for their bravery and honesty.
The decision to stop touring came nearly a year after lead singer Steven Tyler injured his vocal cords, leading to the cancellation of the band’s rescheduled “Peace Out” farewell tour.
Hamilton acknowledged how challenging it is to witness peers continuing their careers while Aerosmith takes this significant step.
Reflecting on the band’s journey, Hamilton said, “I find it hard to believe that we’ll never play again. I’ve been surprised by things that have happened with this band too many times to think that the future is closed.”
He praised Tyler’s determination, recounting the incident during a show where Tyler fractured his larynx after hitting a railing.
“I still can’t believe he finished the show. It’s not the first time he’s had an injury during a show and powered through it. I know how hard he worked on healing and getting ready to go on the road again—but it just wasn’t possible.”
When asked about the current state of Aerosmith, Hamilton described the news as “a punch in the gut.”
He expressed hope that the band might perform together again in some capacity, though he emphasized it wouldn’t be a full tour.
In the meantime, he’s keeping busy with a new band called Close Enemies, where they’ve recorded several promising songs and are getting closer to planning their release.
He added, “My Aerosmith bandmates and I are still in reaction mode. It’s hard going online and seeing all the other bands out there, but I try to keep myself from dwelling on it and letting myself go to a dark place inside.
It’s painful thinking about all the fans who were waiting to come see us. I’ll always be grateful to them for being there for us.”
