MECHANICSBURG, Pa. — Central Pennsylvania native Bret Michaels, lead singer of the hairband Poison, announced he's planning to take an extended break next year.
Michaels made the statement on his website.
Michaels, who turns 61 today, said he has experienced some medical setbacks and is planning some time off on the advice of his doctors.
The Mechanicsburg native and Pennsylvania Music Hall-of-Famer has gone through several health scares over the years, including diabetes, a brain hemorrhage suffered in 2010, and a condition he refers to as "headbanger's neck."
"Performing real live music with family, friends and fans has been both healing and therapeutic to me," Michaels said in a statement. "It has gotten me through some of the best and toughest times in my life. I truly feel connected and grateful for all the amazing friends that have been a part of this crazy journey with me. I've always stated that music is a universal language that is meant to unite us, excite us, and never divide us. It is a soundtrack to our everyday lives and I truly look forward to giving every bit of my energy I've got in 2024 and leave it all up there on the stage every night.
"However, in 2025, in light of some recent medical results and setbacks, and with much discussion and real advice from my doctors and family, I will be taking most, if not all, of 2025 off, except for a few select dates of both the Bret Michaels Band and possibly all original Poison.
"I truly need to recharge the batteries and get a good, much-needed physical tuneup."
As for this year, Michaels will continue his Part-Gras 2.0 Tour, which includes a stop in Burgettstown, Pa.
"Please always understand that I am forever grateful to the fans and hope you understand that this will bring me back in 2026 and beyond to be able to always give 1000% on that stage with positive energy and an Unbroken Warrior Spirit!" Michaels said.
