Pat Boone Announces Farewell Performance, Reflects on Loss and Legacy – “This is it,” declares singer Pat Boone as he concludes his final performance at the Coach House in Southern California. After appearing in Branson, Missouri, and his hometown of Nashville, Boone expresses that this will mark his last concert on the West Coast. Reflecting on his decision, he shares, “I don’t want it to be because I’ve gotten too old, had a stroke, or had another ailment. I’d rather do it while I’m still standing and singing.”
A Time of Reflection
At the age of 87, Boone has been contemplating endings for a while. The passing of his wife, Shirley Boone, a year ago after 65 years of marriage, has taken an emotional toll on him. Despite the loneliness he feels in their shared Beverly Hills house, he finds solace in her presence.
“I sense her presence all the time,” Boone reveals. “Sometimes when I look at the photos that are all over, I cry a little bit.” The couple’s Beverly Hills home holds sentimental value as the place where Shirley painted and where they raised their children.
The stress of his loss has had its effects, including hair loss, which he hopes won’t be too noticeable during his final performance at the Coach House. Throughout his six-decade career as a pop, gospel, country, early rock, and even heavy metal icon, Boone plans to sing a range of songs, including some of his earliest recordings and compositions.
An Enduring Legacy
Boone takes pride in his extensive recording career, boasting a repertoire of over 2,300 songs, which he claims surpasses that of any other musician in history. Having debuted on the charts around the same time as Elvis Presley in the 1950s, Boone achieved chart success with 41 songs compared to Presley’s 40 in the following decade.
Reflecting on his connection with Presley, Boone recounts a humorous exchange with Elvis’s manager, Col. Tom Parker. When Boone informed Parker about his plan to release an album dedicated to Elvis, Parker responded, “If you’re going to include his name in the title, you’ve got to pay a royalty for that.” As a result, the album was titled “Guess Who?” with playful references to Elvis within.
Boone’s career extends beyond music, as he continues to engage in various activities. He remains active in playing singles tennis multiple times a week and is currently working on a book called “If: The Everlasting Choice We Must All Make,” aiming to help those unfamiliar with the Bible or uncertain about their beliefs in addressing the topic of the afterlife.
In conclusion, Pat Boone’s farewell performance marks the end of an era for the legendary singer. Reflecting on his loss and legacy, Boone embraces this final concert while cherishing the memories and influence of his late wife, Shirley. With a remarkable career spanning multiple genres and an enduring connection with Elvis Presley, Boone leaves behind a lasting musical and personal legacy. As he embarks on this new chapter, he finds comfort in the presence of loved ones and his faith in the future.