On Sunday, May 18, 2025, a chapter in American music history comes to a graceful close. Johnny Mathis, the legendary vocalist whose voice has defined romance and elegance for generations, will give the final performance of his "The Voice of Romance" Tour at bergenPAC in Englewood, New Jersey.
This farewell concert marks the end of an extraordinary 70-year career, celebrating a legacy that spans jazz, pop, soul, Broadway, and Christmas classics.
⭐ A Voice That Defined Generations
Born in 1935 in Gilmer, Texas, and raised in San Francisco, Johnny Mathis showed early talent as both a vocalist and an athlete. While attending San Francisco State College on a track scholarship, Mathis was spotted by a club owner who offered him a singing gig. That led to an audition with Columbia Records in 1956 — and the rest is history.
By the late 1950s, Mathis had become a household name. His breakout hits, including “Chances Are,” “Wonderful! Wonderful!,” “It’s Not for Me to Say,” and “Misty,” made him one of the first African American artists to gain widespread mainstream success across radio, television, and the Billboard charts. He would go on to sell over 360 million records worldwide, placing him among the top-selling recording artists of all time.
His style — smooth, romantic, and emotionally resonant — helped define the “easy listening” genre. But his artistry has always transcended labels. Mathis is revered for his command of jazz standards, film songs, Broadway tunes, classical melodies, and his famously beloved Christmas music, which still dominates holiday airwaves today.
A Legacy of Accolades
Over the course of his seven-decade career, Johnny Mathis has earned:
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Five Grammy nominations
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A Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
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Three songs in the Grammy Hall of Fame (“Chances Are,” “It’s Not for Me to Say,” and “Misty”)
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80 original studio albums
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Seven Christmas albums
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Over 50 Adult Contemporary hits
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A ranking as the No. 6 album artist of all time on the Billboard pop charts
Even more impressively, Mathis has maintained a singular relationship with his label — Columbia Records — making him the longest-signed artist in the label’s history.
The Final Bow in Englewood
The final concert at bergenPAC is not just a performance — it's a celebration of legacy. Mathis’ choice of this intimate, acoustically rich venue for his farewell speaks volumes. While the theater has hosted legends like Aretha Franklin, Tony Bennett, and George Benson, Mathis’ appearance represents a milestone unlike any other.
The evening will include special tributes:
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A 70-year photo retrospective
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A Walk of Fame induction
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A custom photo backdrop for fans
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A signed set list memento for all attendees
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The launch of a scholarship in Mathis’ name, supporting aspiring performing artists
And while the spotlight will shine on Mathis one last time onstage, his voice, recordings, and influence will live on for generations to come.
“When I look back at all the love I’ve received through the years,” Mathis once said, “I just feel grateful to have shared my gift with the world.”
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