Iconic rock band cancels all of its shows and some fans say it should retire. Here’s why

Alabama Life & CultureThe Scorpions recently claled off the rest of their 2026 tour dates. (Photo by Medios y Media/Getty Images)Getty ImagesBy Brian Linder | blinder@pennlive.comFans who hoped to see the Scorpions perform this year got some bad news this week.The band announced on social media on Thursday that it is calling off the remainder of its 2026 dates.“We regret to announce that, due to unforeseen circumstances, our upcoming September shows in Mexico and Las Vegas will need to be postponed,” a statement posted on the band’s Facebook page read. “We are extremely disappointed but look forward to returning in 2027 along with a number of European shows with details to be announced soon. We cannot wait to rock with you all again! To those who have purchased tickets, all tickets will be honored for the rescheduled dates. Refunds will be available for those who cannot attend the rescheduled shows.”The band listed 11 shows, including an eight-show slate that was scheduled for Las Vegas this month, as being on the chopping block.Fans were supportive.“I’d rather them take the needed time, be healthy, and solve any issues they may have than jeopardize their personal futures, whether it is transitioning to a non-touring band, or retiring altogether,” Chuck Dotson wrote. “If Matthias and others want to pursue other temporary ventures while others get healthy, I back them 100 (percent). They have given myself and other generations rock anthems that will live on forever. They belong in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 10X over. Whatever they decide should be in the best interest of each one of them. They have already given so much. Bless all of them for eternity, as we know, ‘the future never dies.’”“You’ve already given us so much,” Jorge Villasenor wrote. “We’ll be sad to see you retire, but perhaps it is time.”“Thoughts and prayers are with you,” Laurie Cash wrote. “Your health is most important. Looking forward to see you in Las Vegas again. Love me some SCORPIONS.”The band was formed in 1965 and has been fronted by Klaus Meine since 1969, according to USA Today. Also, rhythm guitarist Rudol Schenker helped found the band, and Matthias Jabs has been with the Scorpions since 1978.The band has released 19 studio albums, with the most recent, “Rock Believer,” coming in 2022.Brian Linder is the trending editor at PennLive.com. He has more than 20 years of experience working for newspapers first in South Carolina, then Daytona Beach, Florida and now in Pennsylvania. Linder spent...