Introduction
The legendary Johnny Mathis—whose velvety voice has captivated generations—took his final bow at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, New Jersey, on Sunday. At 89 years old, Mathis delivered a spellbinding farewell, treating a sell-out audience to timeless classics that defined his six-decade career.
Iconic Performances and Star-Studded Support
In a moving tribute, Mathis revisited fan favorites like “Chances Are,” “It’s Not for Me to Say” and the ever-romantic “Misty,” enchanting everyone within earshot. Sharing the stage and spotlight were musical luminaries Darlene Love, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Valerie Simpson, Gerald Alston, Liz Callaway, Ray Chew, Norm Lewis and Regina Belle—each offering heartfelt nods to Mathis’s enduring influence.
Social Media Hails “The Last of the Great Crooners”
Today show icon Al Roker captured the magic in a social media reel, calling Mathis “the last of the great crooners.” Roker celebrated the performance as a final salute to “one of the greatest practitioners of the Great American Songbook”—a fitting epitaph for a man whose interpretations turned every melody into pure emotion.
A Storied Career and Impressive Wealth
As he steps away from touring, Mathis’s estimated net worth stands at a remarkable $200 million, according to CelebrityNetWorth.com. His financial success stems from the sale of over 350 million albums worldwide and an almost non-stop touring schedule that spanned more than half a century.
Retirement Announcement
In March, Mathis announced his decision to retire from touring, citing “age and memory issues” as the reason. A message on his official Facebook page expressed gratitude to fans: “Johnny Mathis and his entire staff send their heartfelt thanks to all Mathis fans worldwide for your continued love and support of his music. It’s truly been ‘Wonderful, Wonderful.’”
Enduring Legacy and Holiday Favorites
From his debut in the 1950s through more than 70 album releases, Mathis gifted the world with unforgettable songs like “When a Child Is Born” and “Wonderful! Wonderful!” His “Greatest Hits” compilation enjoyed nearly 500 weeks on the Billboard 200 chart, a testament to his lasting appeal. To this day, holiday standards such as “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” “Sleigh Ride” and “We Need a Little Christmas” remain staples on winter playlists everywhere.
Honors and Accolades
Johnny Mathis’s contributions have been celebrated by the Recording Academy with a Lifetime Achievement Award (2003) and an induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame. In 2014, he was welcomed into the Great American Songbook Hall of Fame, cementing his place among America’s most cherished vocalists.