THE BEAST

In a heartfelt announcement, former GREAT WHITE singer Jack Russell has revealed his retirement from touring following a recent diagnosis of Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA). The diagnosis, which was made in May 2024, has forced the iconic rocker to step away from the stage.

"To my fans and friends, it is with the heaviest of hearts that I must announce my retirement from the road," Russell shared in a statement. "After a recent diagnosis of Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) in May 2024, I am unable to perform at the level I desire and at the level you deserve. Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love, and support. Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a wonder."

Lewy body dementia, the second most common cause of neurodegenerative dementia after Alzheimer's disease, impacts memory, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities. It can lead to motor and muscle weakness, rigidity, sleep disorders, and hallucinations. Often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease due to its similar early symptoms, LBD has also been highlighted in the media following the death of actor and comedian Robin Williams, who was posthumously diagnosed with the condition.

Russell's long-awaited autobiography, titled "The True Tale Of Mista Bone: A Rock + Roll Narrative," has just been released via Gatekeeper Press. The book, penned by author Katelyn Louise "K.L." Doty, features a sentimental foreword by Lita Ford and additional commentary from notable figures such as Eric Singer, Eddie Trunk, John Kalodner, and Kip Winger. With a cover photo by legendary rock photographer Mark Weiss, the autobiography is available in paperback, hardcover, and e-book formats. For more information, visit www.jackrussellbook.com.

Jack Russell's departure from GREAT WHITE in December 2011 was due to a series of injuries, including a perforated bowel and a shattered pelvis, which he largely attributed to his addictions to alcohol and painkillers, as well as the prednisone drug he was prescribed. This led to legal battles with his former bandmates over the use of the GREAT WHITE name. The dispute was settled in July 2013, allowing Russell to perform under the name JACK RUSSELL'S GREAT WHITE while the rest of the band continued as GREAT WHITE.

In a December 2023 interview with Neil Jones of TotalRock, Russell expressed his mixed feelings about touring. "I enjoy the hour and a half of playing. The rest of it you could take it and do what you would with it. It's not fun. It's hard. The traveling is just a drag — it's a real drag," he said. He also elaborated on his recent health issues, including a fusion surgery connecting his back to his neck, which kept him off stage for a significant period.

Despite his health challenges, Russell's passion for music and his fans remained evident. "I've been having some issues with my back [in 2023 and 2022]. So I've had to take a little time off. It's finally starting to get better. But I had to have my back fused to my neck, actually," he explained.

Russell's impact on the rock scene is undeniable. His autobiography and the legacy of his music with GREAT WHITE continue to inspire fans worldwide. As he steps away from the stage, the rock community honors his contributions and wishes him strength in his journey with Lewy body dementia.

In October 2022, GREAT WHITE officially named Brett Carlisle as their new lead singer, following Andrew Freeman's brief tenure. Carlisle made his live debut with the band on September 24, 2022, at the Cannery Casino Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

For further updates and information on Jack Russell's journey and his autobiography, visit www.jackrussellbook.com.

Photo courtesy of Frontiers Music Srl