Rock legend sets retirement date: ‘There’s some other things I want to do’

Lou Gramm has been rocking for more than five decades, and he figures that is just about long enough.

So, the 75 year old former frontman of Foreigner has decided that 2026 will mark the end of his touring career.

“I’ve been doing this for over 54 years, (including initial group) Black Sheep,” Gramm told Ultimate Classic Rock. “You know that was a professional band. We had two albums out on Capitol Records (and) did some serious touring.”

Gramm told Ultimate Classic Rock that he has interests in more than just rocking.

“I just feel like there’s some other things that I want to do,” he said. “I do want to spend more time with my children — my older children and my younger child — and spend more time playing with my cars while I’m still capable of driving.”

When Gramm does play his final show he will wrap up a distinguished career.

“I’ve done all there is to do I feel,” he said. “And being in the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame are huge milestones for me. You know, I think in this business, you just know when it’s time.

“I’d like to just stay off the road and enjoy my home, the surroundings, and my family and friends, something that I’ve had to sacrifice for over 50 years.”

Gramm has bene playing with his solo band and has also reunited with Foreigner for special appearances.

“I’ve been doing shows with them and I’ve been enjoying it a lot,” he said. “The band is excellent. They portray the songs (in a way that) an original member of Foreigner would be proud to play along with. They have their own style, but they stick close enough to the original (versions) where no one’s going, ‘Hey, where’s that part?’ So it’s a lot of fun.”