After 50 years of performing, American pop icon Neil Diamond will step away from the limelight.

In this case, it’s a “reluctant” retirement from the stage—something the singer-songwriter agreed to do at the behest of his doctors.

Diamond, best known for his hits “Sweet Caroline” and “Kentucky Woman,” revealed his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis earlier this week.

“It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring,” Diamond said in a statement. “I have been so honoured to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years… My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences for your support and encouragement. This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good,’ thanks to you.”

Although Diamond plans to remain active in songwriting and recording, he cancelled his upcoming concert dates in Australia and New Zealand.

Diamond, who celebrates his 77th birthday this week, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy on Jan. 28.

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