Zombies Cancel Tour After Argent's Stroke
The legendary rock and roll band The Zombies have been forced to cancel upcoming tour dates after founding member Rod Argent suffered a stroke.
Argent, the keyboardist and primary songwriter for the band known for hits like "Time of the Season," was hospitalized following a stroke on his 79th birthday. He was released the next day, but doctors advised several months of rest and recuperation.
In a statement, the band's management said, "Rod has asked us to convey that he has made the very difficult decision to immediately retire from touring in order to protect his health." They explained that Argent had already been planning to wind down his live performance schedule due to health concerns on recent tours, including a planned farewell tour of the United States in Fall 2024. However, the stroke served as a stark reminder of the risks involved in continued touring.
The Zombies were scheduled to perform at the Bearsville Theater in Woodstock, New York, on September 21st as part of their farewell tour. This performance, along with other upcoming dates, has been canceled.
While Argent will no longer be touring, he plans to continue writing and recording with The Zombies. He is already back at the piano, seeking solace in "Bach therapy." The band's future touring plans remain unclear. The current lineup includes original singer Colin Blunstone, also 79.
The Zombies' "Begin Here Festival" is still scheduled for November 8-10, 2024 in St. Albans, UK. This fan weekend will feature a special show honoring Argent in place of The Zombies' planned performance.
The Zombies were a major part of the British Invasion of the 1960s, achieving international success with songs like "She's Not There," "Tell Her No," and "Time of the Season." They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019.
Chris Tuthill and Cindy da Silva, the band's managers for over a decade, urged fans to cherish live music experiences. They said, "If a classic artist that has made music you love is performing nearby, donât miss the opportunity to see them. You can sit on the couch and binge Netflix another day. The communal experience of a live performance by a veteran artist is a singular and joyous moment. These artists are treasures who have stood the test of time and are giving their all, but they are fragile human beings like all of us. Don't miss out."
