In the world of music, the phrase “retirement” often carries less permanence than in other professions. Many iconic artists have walked away from the limelight, only to return stronger and more inspired than ever. Whether driven by passion, creative resurgence, or the undeniable pull of their fanbase, these musicians have proven that you can always make a grand comeback. Here’s a look at 10 artists who retired from music and later made a successful return.
1. Jay-Z
When Jay-Z announced his retirement with the release of The Black Album in 2003, fans were unsure if they’d ever hear new music from the rap legend. However, the retirement was short-lived. In 2006, he returned with Kingdom Come and has since released several more albums, including the critically acclaimed 4:44. His comeback solidified his position as one of hip-hop’s greatest.
2. Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand, one of the most successful singers and actresses of all time, announced her retirement from live performances in the early 2000s. However, Streisand couldn’t stay away for long. In 2006, she returned with a nationwide tour, which was a massive success. Her comeback proved that she still had the vocal prowess and star power to captivate audiences worldwide.
3. Eminem
After releasing Encore in 2004, Eminem took a step back from the music industry, citing struggles with addiction and personal issues. Fans wondered if Slim Shady was gone for good. But in 2009, he made a powerful return with Relapse and followed it up with the Grammy-winning album Recovery in 2010. Eminem’s return marked a new chapter in his career, solidifying his place as a rap icon.
4. Cher
Cher has had more farewells and comebacks than most artists in the industry. In 2002, she announced her “Farewell Tour,” signaling her retirement from touring. But Cher didn’t stay away for long. She returned to Las Vegas for a residency in 2008, and in 2013, released her album Closer to the Truth. At 72, she embarked on another tour in 2019, proving that her star power is as strong as ever.
5. Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks, a country music superstar, stepped away from the music industry in 2001 to focus on his family. He stayed retired for over a decade, but in 2014, he made a major comeback with a world tour and a new album, Man Against Machine. Brooks’ return was met with widespread fanfare, reminding the world why he remains one of the best-selling artists of all time.
6. Paul McCartney
Although Paul McCartney never officially retired, there was a period in the 1980s when the legendary Beatle slowed down significantly, leaving fans wondering if his best days were behind him. However, he roared back with renewed energy in the 1990s and beyond, continuing to release critically acclaimed albums and perform around the globe. McCartney’s comeback has kept him a relevant and beloved figure in modern music.
7. Tina Turner
Tina Turner famously retired from performing after her 2000 tour, marking the end of a decades-spanning career. However, in 2008, Turner returned to the stage for her “Tina!: 50th Anniversary Tour,” a celebration of her incredible career. Her comeback was a massive success, with fans flocking to see the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll perform once more.
8. Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac has had several line-up changes and retirements, but the most notable was Christine McVie’s departure in 1998. For 16 years, the band toured and recorded without her, until she rejoined in 2014 for their world tour, On With the Show. McVie’s return to the band was celebrated by both the group and their fans, bringing the classic lineup back together.
9. David Bowie
David Bowie quietly stepped away from music after his 2003 tour and subsequent health issues. Many believed he had retired for good. But in 2013, Bowie surprised the world with the release of The Next Day, his first album in a decade. His comeback was unexpected, yet critically acclaimed, cementing his legendary status before his passing in 2016.
10. Justin Timberlake
After conquering the music charts in the early 2000s, Justin Timberlake took a break from music to focus on acting. For six years, fans awaited his return to music. Finally, in 2013, Timberlake made a comeback with The 20/20 Experience, which became one of the best-selling albums of that year. Timberlake’s return to the music scene reminded everyone why he was a pop sensation in the first place.
These artists prove that even after stepping away from the spotlight, the allure of music is too strong to resist. Their comebacks are not only testaments to their talent but also to the dedication and loyalty of their fans. Whether driven by creative passion or the sheer love of performing, these musicians have made their mark on the industry—again and again.