After decades shaping the soundtrack of generations, a number of iconic rock artists stepped away from live performance in 2025. From monumental final tours to emotional goodbyes, this year marked the end of several remarkable live-show chapters in classic rock history.
The Who: A Storied Goodbye
Forty-five years after their first “last tour,” The Who brought their 2025 The Song Is Over farewell tour to a close on October 1 at the Acrisure Arena in Thousand Palms, California. Guitarist Pete Townshend acknowledged the moment as a meaningful end, saying, “I suppose, you know, it’s goodbye to what we know as The Who.” While he left open the possibility of future collaborations with singer Roger Daltrey, the band’s traditional touring era appears to be over.
Jeff Lynne’s ELO: Over and Out
Electric Light Orchestra, led by Jeff Lynne, embarked on their Over and Out farewell tour in 2024, and continued into 2025 before circumstances forced an early end. While the band completed the majority of the North American leg, plans for a brief UK run in July were canceled when Lynne suffered an illness and was unable to perform. In a message to fans, he expressed his disappointment but heartfelt gratitude for their support.
Ozzy Osbourne: Final Curtain With Back to the Beginning
After years of health setbacks and postponed plans, Ozzy Osbourne finally delivered a farewell performance that lived up to its name. On July 5, 2025, the Prince of Darkness headlined Back to the Beginning, a star-studded celebration of his music and legacy — capped by his solo set and a special performance with Black Sabbath founding members Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. Less than three weeks later, Osbourne passed away at age 76, making that night his true final bow.
David Coverdale / Whitesnake: A Last Ride
For David Coverdale, the journey that began with Deep Purple and continued through Whitesnake reached its conclusion in November 2025 when he announced his retirement from performing. Although the band’s farewell tour was derailed by health issues and cancellations over the past few years, Coverdale ultimately decided the time had come to step away after more than five decades on stage. He thanked fans, bandmates, crew, and family for their support in an emotional statement.
Ace Frehley: A Final Stage and Lasting Legacy
Guitarist Ace Frehley remained active on the road and in the studio for many years, touring consistently and releasing his 2024 album 10,000 Volts. However, what would become his final concert took place on September 5, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island. Six weeks later, Frehley died at age 74 from injuries sustained in a fall at his home studio. Before his passing, he was honored with the Kennedy Center Honors alongside his former Kiss bandmates — an achievement he described as a dream come true.
