Status Quo confirm they're ‘radically cutting back on touring activities' in 2018

Status Quo are going on a touring hiatus next year, aside from a handful of summer shows and festivals.

Author: Scott ColothanPublished 12th Oct 2017

For the first time in three decades, Quo won’t be embarking on a winter tour of Europe or Christmas shows in the UK in 2018 as they look to cut back on their touring activities for the immediate future.

The upcoming ‘Plugged In: Live and Rockin’!’ UK Tour in late November and early December will be fans’ last chance to see Status Quo in smaller and more intimate venues for at least two years.

Francis Rossi explains: “This year has been one of change and reassessment following the sad death of Rick Parfitt. Although Rick had already retired from touring for six months before he died, it was still a major shock and my immediate reaction was to honour existing contracts and then knock it on the head.

“However, since then I have become increasingly confused as I realized just how much I was enjoying touring with two vibrant young guys in the band in guitarist Richie Mallone and drummer Leon Cave.

“They have given us old guys a good kick up the backside and whilst it could never be the same as with Rick in the band, it is different now but in an exciting and vibrant way that I can’t fully explain. The 2017 gigs have been absolutely incredible and spirits are high, but we do now need some thinking time to consider all of the options now on offer for 2019, which could well include the recording a new full on Quo rock album!

“We would love as many fans as possible to come and really help us make some noise on this year’s dates as we definitely won’t be touring in 2018.  This is a massive change for us, and I know that the Quo tour has become a traditional part of the festive season for many fans.”

As a tribute to Rick, Status Quo have also confirmed that two of his best-loved songs – ‘Don’t Drive My Car’ and ‘Little Lady’ – will be making the setlist at the upcoming UK shows. Other greatest hits the band will be performing include ‘Rockin’ All Over The World’, ‘Whatever You Want’, ‘Caroline’, ‘Down Down’, ‘In The Army Now’, ‘Roll Over Lay Down’ and ‘Rain’.

Tickets to the ‘Plugged In: Live and Rockin’!’ tour are on sale from Planet Rock Tickets now. They play the following shows:

NOVEMBER 2017
Manchester O2 Apollo- Sun 26th
Sheffield City Hall – Mon 27th
Cardiff St David’s Hall – Wed 29th
Reading Hexagon – Thu 30th

DECEMBER 2017
Bournemouth International Centre – Sat 2nd
Wolverhampton Civic Hall – Sun 3rd
Glasgow Clyde Auditorium – Tue 5th
Newcastle City Hall – Wed 6th
London Eventim Apollo – Fri 8th

>> Click here to buy tickets <<