Key Points

Paul Simon abruptly canceled two Philadelphia shows due to debilitating back pain. His team announced immediate surgery plans but hopes to resume the tour soon. Full refunds are being processed for disappointed fans. The Grammy-winning artist had performed in the city just days before the cancellation.

Key Points: Paul Simon Cancels Philadelphia Shows Due to Severe Back Pain

  • Paul Simon cancels two Academy of Music shows due to severe back pain
  • Refunds offered to ticket holders through original purchase points
  • Surgery scheduled before resuming 'A Quiet Celebration Tour'
  • Future tour dates remain uncertain pending recovery progress
2 min read

Singer Paul Simon cancels shows in Philadelphia last minute due to back pain

Paul Simon cancels two Philadelphia concerts citing unmanageable back pain, with refunds offered and hopes for rescheduling after surgery.

"Paul has been struggling with chronic and intense back pain. Today, it became unmanageable and demands immediate attention. – Paul Simon's Instagram"

Washington DC, June 29

Fans of iconic singer-songwriter Paul Simon were left disappointed after the artist cancelled his scheduled performances in Philadelphia due to health issues.

In a post shared on his official Instagram handle on Saturday, the 'Sounds of Silence' singer announced the cancellation of his Saturday and Sunday performances (June 29, 2026) at the Philadelphia Academy of Music, citing chronic and intense back pain.

"Regretfully, Paul Simon must cancel two shows tonight, June 28 and tomorrow night, June 29, at Philadelphia's Academy of Music. Paul has been struggling with chronic and intense back pain. Today, it became unmanageable and demands immediate attention," read the post.

The team of Paul Simon reassured that the singer would return to complete his music tour.

"Unfortunately, we have to cancel these shows at this time, as we don't have the ability to reschedule them. However, we are hopeful that after this minor surgical procedure, which has been scheduled in the next few days, Paul will be able to complete the tour as well as look into returning to make up these dates," read Paul Simon's Instagram post.

The post went on to say that full refunds will be provided to those who purchased tickets in advance for the show.

The post read, "In the meantime, please go to your point of purchase or local ticket provider for a full refund."

According to Variety, Simon, who is currently on his 'A Quiet Celebration Tour,' performed at the Philadelphia venue only two days prior on Thursday.

It was the first of three shows to take place in the city. After the stint on the East Coast, the tour heads to the Terrace Theatre at the Long Beach Performing Arts Centre on July 7.

Especially considering the surgery, it is unclear how Simon's health will affect the rest of the tour.

After stopping in Long Beach, California, Simon is set to do a five-night stint at Los Angeles' Disney Hall, reported Variety.

Paul Simon is known for his album 'Graceland', which was released in 1986.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Disappointing but understandable. At 84 years old, he's still touring which is incredible! I hope the surgery goes well. Graceland was the soundtrack of my college days in Delhi - such timeless music!
A
Ananya R
The organizers should have had backup plans. Many Indian fans travel abroad specifically for such concerts. Full refund is good but doesn't cover flight/hotel costs 😕 Hope they consider compensation for international fans too.
K
Karthik V
Maybe he should try Ayurveda before surgery? My father had chronic back pain and Panchakarma treatment in Kerala worked wonders. Western medicine isn't always the only solution! #IndianMedicine
M
Michael C
This is why we need more international artists to perform in India! If he had shows in Mumbai or Delhi, Indian fans wouldn't have to spend lakhs traveling abroad just to see cancellations. Our entertainment industry should work on this.
P
Priya S
Get well soon Paul Simon ji! Your music has been part of our family gatherings for decades. My dad still plays "You Can Call Me Al" at every party 😊 Hope to see you back on stage soon!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50