As fans of The Cure eagerly await the band’s first new album in 16 years, frontman Robert Smith has revealed plans to remain active for only another five years.
In a recent interview with The Times, the 65-year-old singer shared his shifting perspectives on mortality and how it influences The Cure’s music.
“Our songs always had a fear of mortality,” he reflected.
“I don’t feel my age at all, but I’m aware of it. As you get older, that fear becomes more real.
Death feels more present. When you’re younger, you romanticize it, but then it touches your family and friends. I’m a different person from when we made the last record, and I want that to come through.
It can sound trite; people might say, ‘Oh, we’re all going to die — surprise me!’ But I strive to connect emotionally with that concept.”
Smith, who celebrated his 65th birthday in April, seems to have mapped out a timeline for his career. According to The Times, The Cure plans to tour until 2028, marking the band’s 50th anniversary, with Smith indicating that retirement would follow shortly after.
“I’ll be 70 in 2029,” he stated firmly. “And that’s it, that really is it. If I make it that far, that’s it.”
Reflecting on his life, Smith noted, “I’ve led a very privileged life. I can’t believe how lucky I’ve been.
I’m still doing what I’ve always wanted, but the fact that I’m still upright is probably the best thing about being me, especially considering there were times I didn’t think I would make it to 30, 40, or 50.
My mind may not function as sharply as it once did, but I’m much more relaxed and easier to get along with now.”
When Does The Cure’s New Album Come Out?
Songs of the Lost World, The Cure’s first new album since 2008’s 4:13 Dream, is set to release on November 1.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers have already unveiled two singles from the album: “Alone” and “A Fragile Thing.” Additionally, several new songs were live-premiered during the band’s 2022-23 tour, including “Endsong,” “And Nothing Is Forever,” and “I Can Never Say Goodbye.”
