Electric Light Orchestra’s final concert on July 13 was met with tragedy instead of triumph when Jeff Lynne was forced to cancel the performance in London’s Hyde Park due to health issues. The decision came after a week of volatility for Lynne on the road: The band canceled a July 10 concert in Manchester owing to an unspecified illness, and a show earlier in the week rendered an injured Lynne unable to play his guitar. Concertgoers voiced concern that the 77-year-old was missing cues, forgetting words, and struggling to remain seated in his chair. “Jeff has been battling a systemic infection and is currently in the care of a team of doctors who have advised him that performing is simply not possible at this time nor will he be able to reschedule,” the statement read. “The legacy of the band and his longtime fans are foremost in Jeff’s mind today — and while he is so sorry that he cannot perform, he knows that he must focus on his health and rehabilitation at this time.” Lynne previously hyped up ELO’s Hyde Park show as a full-circle moment, stressing that it wasn’t a “farewell to music.” Rather, he was eager to make a return to the studio. “It will certainly be an emotional show for me,” he told Mojo in late 2024. “It has been great getting to tour the world and to this day at every show I’m always surprised and delighted by the crowds and the energy they bring. I will miss it.” He added, presciently, “I’m happy with what I’ve done.”
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