Emmylou Harris, the legendary country music icon, is set to embark on her final European tour, bringing an end to her decades-long international performances. The 78-year-old singer-songwriter, known for her crystalline vocals and genre-blending sound, has left an indelible mark on the music industry, winning 14 Grammy Awards and selling over 15 million records worldwide.
Despite her impending European retirement, Harris has no plans to hang up her microphone for good. “I’m going to continue to sing and perform here in the States as long as they’ll have me,” she says. “But I won’t be going across the Atlantic again.” The decision, she explains, is driven by the rigours of touring, which have become increasingly challenging with age.
Harris’ musical journey has been anything but conventional. Growing up, she was initially drawn to folk music, believing country was “too corny.” It wasn’t until she met the late Gram Parsons, of The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers, that her perspective shifted. Parsons’ unique blend of country and rock had a profound impact on Harris, leading her to embrace the soulfulness of the genre.
After Parsons’ untimely death in 1973, Harris found herself at a crossroads, unsure of her next steps. It was the support and guidance of fellow country-rock icon Linda Ronstadt that helped her navigate the grief and find a path forward. Ronstadt’s endorsement within the industry opened doors for Harris, propelling her solo career to new heights.
Over the years, Harris has collaborated with an impressive array of artists, including Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Willie Nelson. Her 1987 album “Trio,” a collaboration with Ronstadt and Parton, is widely regarded as one of the highlights of her illustrious career.
As Harris prepares for her European farewell tour, she reflects on the serendipitous moments that have shaped her life and music. “There’s a lot of serendipity to my story,” she says, recalling how a chance encounter with Parsons led to their fruitful partnership.
While Harris may be stepping away from international touring, her passion for music and her commitment to animal welfare remain undiminished. The singer-songwriter continues to perform locally and oversee her dog rescue centre, Bonaparte’s Retreat, which she founded in 2004.
“I don’t really know what winding down is,” Harris says. “As I tell my friends, I don’t know what I’m doing, but I sure am doing a lot of it.” With her European farewell tour set to commence this month, fans and admirers alike will have one last chance to witness the legendary Emmylou Harris in action on the international stage.
