Devin Townsend announces indefinite break from touring: “Let’s make this one count”
Devin Townsend has said he is pausing touring for the near future.
The Canadian metal musician is currently on tour across North America, but past the final show in Los Angeles on May 23, he won’t be playing live !for the foreseeable future”. He did, however, stress that this is not a retirement, as he’s not done performing live, “by a long shot.”
Townsend said that his reasons for doing so related to both his personal life and the rising cost of touring.
“For nearly 35 years, I’ve followed a creative path guided by instinct—each album, each tour, each project a new chapter in a story I’ve felt compelled to tell. My mind latches onto concepts, and I love chasing them down. That chase has made this journey wild, unpredictable, and deeply fulfilling,” the statement began.
“Over the years, I’ve heard it countless times: ‘Dev, take a break… please.’ But the flood of ideas, the excitement, and the support of incredible musicians and listeners have kept me going, kept me touring, and kept me grateful for a life on the road.
“That said, things have changed—especially since the pandemic. Booking tours now means planning up to two years in advance. With fewer venues, fewer crews, and a saturated touring circuit, it’s become more challenging than ever to line things up.
“And beyond the logistics, life has simply caught up with me: my parents need help, my dogs are on their last legs, the kids have moved out, ‘The Moth’ is nearly complete, and truthfully, I need some time to breathe and recalibrate. So I’ve made the decision to take a break from touring—an indefinite one.”
He continued: “This upcoming North American run will be the last time you’ll see me on stage for the foreseeable future. That doesn’t mean I’m done playing live. Not by a long shot. I’ll be performing until my final breath. But right now, I need to be present for the people who need me, and to give myself the space to reflect on everything I’ve been through.”
“Touring has been a beautiful, exhausting constant in my life, and for once, I’m listening to the voice that says: ‘slow down.’ I want to create from a place of calm inspiration rather than frantic obligation. And until I can truly be there for the people who rely on me, my creativity won’t be at its best.
“So here’s the deal: this final North American tour is going to be something special. We’re digging deep into the catalog, pulling out some big ones, and making these shows a true celebration. If you’ve ever wanted to step into this world I’ve built—maybe you caught ‘The Moth,’ or a song found its way to you when you needed it—now’s the time.
“I know things are tough economically, and I don’t take that lightly, so I’m doing everything I can to make these shows as meaningful and unforgettable as possible. Let’s make this one count. With love and gratitude, Dev.”
Townsend was touring in support of his new album ‘Powernerd’, which came out in October.
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Emma Wilkes
NME
