The internationally acclaimed singer, known for hits like “I’m Like a Bird,” “Say It Right” and “Promiscuous,” announced Friday that she will be taking a break from live performances and stage activities — indefinitely.
In a lengthy Instagram post marking the 25th anniversary of her debut album “Whoa, Nelly!” (2000), Furtado expressed gratitude for her journey and the fact that her music has resonated with younger generations.
She added that she feels the time has come to “pursue other creative and personal initiatives that better align with this phase of my life.”
“I will always see myself as a songwriter,” she wrote. “I am infinitely grateful for the years of fun, community and wonder that music has given me.”
According to the media, based on her statement, Furtado’s last live performance was recorded at the Super Bloom 2025 festival in Munich on August 30, 2025.
She released her first album in seven years, “7,” in September 2024, where she also worked with her eldest daughter in the creative process.
In addition to her decision to retire from the stage, Furtado has recently been involved in public challenges regarding comments about her body image — and in response has publicly supported the concept of “body neutrality.”
She described her return to the stage as a “surreal and joyful” experience when she saw how her music was discovered by a new generation.
Why this moment is important
This news comes as the end of a 25-year cycle in Furtado’s musical career, which began with the album “Whoa, Nelly!” (2000) and culminated in several major hits and successful global distribution.
Her decision to step down from the stage reflects a new phase: not a total withdrawal from music but a shift in focus — from live performance to creation, reflection, personal projects.
At a time when the art of music is taking on new forms (social media, TikTok, nostalgic refreshes), Furtado emphasized that now “I will always identify as a singer-songwriter.”
What it means for the public and the industry
For fans: While there are no new tours or major public performances planned, her music will remain available and may appear in other forms (studio, collaborations, digital releases).
For the industry: This step by an experienced artist shows a trend where artists are choosing to redirect energy from the stage towards creation and other artistic formats.
For the young people who follow her: Furtado’s message is powerful — music is more than performance, it’s expression, transformation, and there’s life beyond the stage.
In an era where the pressure to stay on stage is immense, Nelly Furtado’s (46) message is to believe in yourself, recognize when it’s time for a change, and take the next step into the future. Although she won’t be performing regularly for the time being, she leaves behind a strong legacy and a new creative horizon.
