Big Horizon has made a tribute to legendary musician Jeff Lynne following the cancellation of two Electric Light Orchestra gigs.
Lynne, 77, confirmed he would be unable to complete the Over and Out tour, pulling out of the BST Hyde Park show in London and a second date at Manchester’s Co-Op Live Arena. The gigs were cancelled due to health reasons and refunds were issued to those who had tickets for both events. The Over and Out tour was scheduled as the final on-stage appearances from Lynne, who told audiences in Birmingham he had been involved in a taxi cab crash, breaking his hand in the process. The final two UK tour dates were cancelled by Lynne, with BST Hyde Park confirming the performances would not be rescheduled.
Big Horizon released a statement to their social media pages, which reads: “We’re struggling to find the words to express how we feel about not being able to give this incredible journey the send-off it so truly deserved.
“But right now, our hearts and focus are with the health and well-being of our fearless leader. Our time on the spaceship has been nothing short of unforgettable — and the life of these songs will continue to grow and resonate. We love you, Jeff.”
Lynne has issued a statement of his own regarding his health, confirming he is at home and recuperating just days after cancelling the BST Hyde Park gig. A statement from Lynne reads: “I am now at home recuperating. I was absolutely gutted to have to cancel the final two shows. I send my heartfelt thanks to all of the fans as well as my band and crew for all their support and love.”
Fans were relieved to hear Lynne is on the mend following the cancellation of his Co-Op Live Arena show and BST Hyde Park performance. In a statement issued by BST Hyde Park last week, the organisation confirmed Lynne was unable to perform and that the show would not be rescheduled.
The statement reads: “Jeff Lynne is heartbroken to report that he will not be able to perform at tomorrow’s BST Hyde Park show. Jeff has been battling a systemic infection and is currently in the care of a team of doctors who have advised him that performing is simply not possible at this time nor will he be able to reschedule.
“The legacy of the band and his longtime fans are foremost in Jeff’s mind today – and while he is so sorry that he cannot perform, he knows that he must focus on his health and rehabilitation at this time.”
It comes as fans continue signing a petition to have Lynne knighted. A post to Change.org has gathered over 1,700 signatures at time of writing. The Change.org post reads: “Jeff Lynne’s music transcends geographical and generational boundaries, bringing joy and inspiration to countless individuals worldwide.
“His unique talent has not only enriched the lives of those who hear his music but also propelled the music industry forward with innovation and creativity. Granting Jeff Lynne a knighthood would be a fitting tribute to his immeasurable contributions to music and culture. It is a gesture that would honour both him and the music community at large.
Whilst it’s very sad that Jeff Lynn and ELO had to cancel their tour it must be accepted that Jeff’s health issues are of paramount importance. Get well soon Jeff and we can hope that you are able to record and release some more albums.
Lynn*e*?
I’m sure ELO fans are gutted to hear that Jeff’s health is not good , so get well soon
1 day I hope you will be back as do we all
Missing you Allready, phil
Jeff you’ve given us great joy over the years. Very important you now take Good care of yourself. We all look forward to you getting fit and well.
Jeff- I know you’ve heard it all before but I simply have to say it- your music, your songs, your melodic arrangements, and your various incredible collaborations- these are all stunning and extremely memorable- they have become part of popular music history- how fortunate that you worked with Roy, George, Bob, Tom and many others. You have helped make the world we live in a better place. Thank you!!!
Genius
So glad to hear that you’re on the mend.
Your songs have been a huge part of my life, childhood and memories of my passing father.
You are simply a Legend.
All the best…..
Hi Jeff we have a lot in common very similar taste in music I’m a Brummie and I lived just round the corner from you in Brum. Lots of love and best wishes for a speedy recovery our kid.
We was one of the very lucky people to elo at Birmingham pure genius get well soon and he should be knighted
It should be SIR Jeff Lynne ❤️
Drew up in seventys such great British band get well soon Jeff baby one in a million
ELO finished a long time ago. It’s been a tribute act for years.
What a ridiculous comment.A tribute Band being led by the co-founder and major songwriter of ELO who also had Richard Tandy until his Death last year. That’s one hell of a Tribute band !!!
Nonsense to the above Jon comment. The additions of recent years have enriched the band.
Best wishes Jeff for a full recovery, we would love to have you back in the UK for another chance to see you & your band
So so sorry your not to. Good jeff, hope you mend quickly. Your music has uplifted me over the years not just Elo but also will burns. God bless you. JEFF GET WELL SOON
I joined the British Army in 1977. Mr Blue Sky was constantly being played on the jukebox in the NAAFI.
Ever since, I have been a fan of ELO.
So sad to hear of Jeff’s health issues and may I wish him a speedy recovery.
Your music will last for an eternity!
It was so sad to hear of Jeff struggle with his health. I hope he makes a full recovery. ELO is my go to play list all my life, especially Mr Blue Sky which I use to practice ice skating to for hours a week. Get well and return to the Mic Jeff 🙏
I’ve been buying ELO since 1977 and continued to do so even through the wilderness years so it is extremely gratifying that Jeff and his band finally got the recognition and public adoration that they deserved so the knighthood would be well in order. Get well soon Jeff, you are a legend
So sorry to hear that you haven’t been well . I can only that I will you a speedy recovery. Your music has helped me cope over the years and finally meeting you in 1987 has helped to ease the pain . All the very best to you in your recovery ynwa LIZ HALL
Even genius needs recovery and recoup time.Good to know you’re in recovery.Looking forward so much to more of your remarkable creativity.
So lucky to have seen Jeff with the Idle Race and ELO several times. Wonderful memories, loved your Birmingham show in July. Here’s to a speedy recovery.
Had the good fortune to see Jeff and the band in Birmingham. Had a fantastic evening and loved every minute. Sad you couldn’t fulfill the remaining dates but I expect the disappointed fans understand your health comes first. Wish you a speedy recovery. Arise sir Jeff.
ELO will NEVER be finished. Jeff’s songs are timeless and innovative. I was due to see them at Hyde Park and whilst gutted, the only thing that matters is our health. Get well soon Jeff. You and ELO have been the best part of my life and always will be