Singer Daryl Braithwaite retires after 58-year career due to larynx issue

Daryl Braithwaite Announces Retirement After 58-Year Career

Legendary Australian singer Daryl Braithwaite has officially retired from performing, citing a persistent and debilitating larynx issue that has made singing increasingly difficult. His final performances took place during a three-show run on a cruise ship in the Arctic.

Braithwaite revealed he has been dealing with a breathing problem related to his larynx for approximately one year. The condition has severely impacted his ability to perform at his best.

"If I cannot give 100%, I would be fooling myself and the audience."

He noted that preparation for a single gig now takes two to three days, and he has struggled significantly to sing during recent performances. The last two songs he ever performed on stage were "The Horses" and "Howzat."

Braithwaite shared that he had been contemplating retirement for about a year, even consulting with others on how to step away from the industry.

The diminishing joy of performing was the final factor in his decision. He explained that the effort required to overcome his vocal issues had drained the pleasure from what was once a passion.

Despite leaving the stage, Braithwaite is not stepping away from creative projects. He plans to focus on two major works:

• A compilation book of images from his iconic era with the band Sherbet.
• A documentary about the band's history.