In a heartfelt message, Rubén Blades, the renowned Panamanian singer-songwriter and actor, revealed that 2027 will mark the end of his concert tours. This decision stems from his advancing age and a desire to establish a more permanent residence in Panama, commencing in 2028. Blades reflected on his long and intense career, acknowledging the challenges of continuing to tour as he approaches his 78th birthday. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the quality of his performance and expressed gratitude for the experiences over the years.

Blades detailed his plans for a farewell tour across Europe in 2026, where he will perform with the Roberto Delgado band, with whom he has collaborated in this latest phase of his career. He describes this upcoming tour as a special farewell, allowing him to savor the moments shared with his audience one last time. The artist mentioned that he hopes to retain both his health and vocal abilities to finish his career on a high note, underscoring the emotional weight of this decision for him.

This announcement resonates deeply within the music community and among fans worldwide, as Blades is celebrated not only for his rhythmic salsa music but also for the narrative depth of his lyrics. As a pivotal figure in Latin music, his retirement from touring signals the end of an era, prompting reflections on his substantial contributions to the genre and the cultural narratives he has crafted through his art. Fans and fellow artists alike will be keenly aware of his final performances, marking a significant moment in the celebration of his storied legacy.