Devin Townsend will take an indefinite hiatus after the conclusion of his North American tour in May.
The Prog legend, 52, plans to take a break to “breathe and recalibrate” after going at it non-stop for more than three decades.
In a video update, he told fans on social media: “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 on to concepts, and I love chasing them down. That chase has made this journey wild, unpredictable, and deeply fulfilling.”
He continued: “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.”
Townsend noted how tours have become a logistical challenge due to “fewer venues, fewer crews, and a saturated touring circuit.”
Further to this, the musician’s family need him.
He explained: “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. This upcoming North American run will be the last time you’ll see me on stage for the foreseeable future.”
Townsend reassured fans that this does not mean he is retiring, insisting: “I’ll be performing until my final breath.”
He went on: “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.”
Townsend’s final concert of his jaunt takes place May 23 in Los Angeles.