In recent months, Aerosmith has undergone significant changes, primarily due to frontman Steven Tyler’s health challenges. In August 2024, the iconic rock band announced their retirement from touring, citing Tyler’s inability to fully recover from a vocal cord injury sustained during a performance in September 2023. This injury, a fractured larynx, led to the cancellation of their “Peace Out” farewell tour and raised concerns about the band’s future performances.
Despite the retirement announcement, Steven Tyler made a notable return to the stage on February 2, 2025, during his annual “Jam for Janie” Grammy Awards Viewing Party at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. This event, benefiting Tyler’s Janie’s Fund—which supports girls who have suffered abuse and neglect—also extended its support to Los Angeles firefighters affected by recent wildfires. Tyler’s performance featured collaborations with artists like Mick Fleetwood, Lainey Wilson, Tom Hamilton, and Chris Robinson. Together, they delivered renditions of Aerosmith classics such as “Dream On,” “Sweet Emotion,” and “Walk This Way.” This appearance marked Tyler’s first public performance since the band’s retirement announcement, showcasing a significant improvement in his vocal abilities.
In light of Tyler’s return, discussions about Aerosmith’s future have resurfaced. Bassist Tom Hamilton, in an interview with WBUR, expressed cautious optimism regarding the possibility of the band reuniting for future performances. He emphasized the importance of Tyler’s health and the need to avoid pressuring him into commitments before he’s fully ready. Hamilton’s remarks suggest that while the band has retired from extensive touring, occasional special performances might still be conceivable, contingent upon Tyler’s continued recovery.
However, not all perspectives are as hopeful. Former Guns N’ Roses drummer Matt Sorum, in a radio interview on February 13, 2025, shared his doubts about Tyler’s capacity to endure the rigors of touring again. Sorum highlighted the immense pressure and high standards Tyler sets for himself, suggesting that these factors, combined with his vocal health issues, might deter him from future tours.
In the interim, Aerosmith’s members are exploring individual projects. Tom Hamilton has formed a new band, Close Enemies, which embarked on a tour with a notable performance at Norwalk’s District Music Hall on February 22, 2025. The group, featuring vocalist Chasen Hampton and guitarist Peter Stroud, among others, offers Hamilton an avenue to continue his musical journey outside of Aerosmith.
In summary, while Aerosmith has officially retired from touring due to Steven Tyler’s vocal injury, recent events indicate a potential for select performances in the future. Tyler’s recent return to the stage and Hamilton’s optimistic outlook provide hope for fans, though the band’s future activities will largely depend on Tyler’s health and readiness to perform.
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