Rod Stewart bids farewell to stage after six decades on stage

Rod Stewart has bid farewell to the stage by announcing his retirement after entertaining audience with his music for more than six decades. 

The singer, 81, took to social media to confirm the dates for his 'final tour ever,'saying it is 'time to say farewell.'

The music icon underwent heart surgery last month for an undisclosed 'underlying heart issue' which was discovered when doctors spotted a blockage.

As a result, he was forced to cancel the remainder of his US tour after undergoing a coronary stent procedure.

The Final Encore Tour will kick off in April next year in Ireland and run until July 24, when he will perform his final date in Germany.

In a clip Sir Rod said: 'After much deliberation and sadness I have to announce that next year will be my last tour forever ever. This will be the last rock and roll tour.

'So I want to thank you for everything you have given me and hopefully I've given you something in return.'

Sir Rod – who is married to Penny Lancaster – wrote in the caption of his post: 'Well, here we go… one last time!

'Come and see me on my One Last Time Tour for one more round of rock 'n' roll. I'm really looking forward to it. Get your tickets now with link in the bio.'

In a further statement he added: 'My dear friends, the time has come to say farewell to life on the road. After more than six decades, The Final Encore will most definitely be my last.

'I've been singing the music I love since I was 19 years old, and I've had the privilege of taking it around the world to all of you.

'It has given me a life beyond anything I could ever have imagined, and I hope I've given you some fond memories in return.

'So, may I take this opportunity to thank you for making this extraordinary life possible. I hope you'll join me so I can thank you the best way I know how… with the music and one hell of a show. See you there.'

Tickets are now available on the Fanclub presale, and general release will begin on October 2.