The B-52s Farewell Tour Kicks Off in Seattle

Promotional photo from The B-52s

45 years after playing their very first gig in 1977, the B-52s are calling it quits. At least, on the touring front. The band isn’t officially breaking up but they’re tired of touring and it’s hard to find fault with that considering the longevity of the band.

The last tour kicks off in Seattle on Monday, August 22nd, and ends with the last show in Atlanta on November 11th. It’s a bittersweet farewell that includes three of the original group – Fred Schneider, Kate Pierson, and Cindy Wilson.

Opening groups for the show are KC & The Sunshine Band, and The Tubes. Clearly it’s going to be a nostalgic show.

The Seattle concert will be held in McCaw Hall and tickets are already going fast. Prices range from $325 and more for orchestra seats to $59.50 in the second tier. The concert starts at 7:30 pm.

In an interview with People Magazine, Fred Schneider noted that:

"No one likes to throw a party more than we do, but after almost a half-century on the road, it's time for one last blow-out with our friends and family…our fans," Schneider explained of the band's decision to retire from touring. "And with KC & The Sunshine Band and The Tubes on board, it's going to be one hell of a farewell party at these concerts."

While there won’t be any touring in the band’s future, it’s still possible that there will be future studio albums. When “Funplex” was released in 2008 it had been 16 years since the band put out an album, so it’s nearly time for another one.