The Electric Light Orchestra has had an interesting history. Founded in 1970 by Jeff Lynne and Roy Wood, the band saw commercial success and several lineup changes before disbanding in 1986.
Around the turn of the century, Lynn tried to get the band back together, but it fizzled out. Then, in 2014, he formed Jeff Lynne’s ELO and they’ve been going strong for a decade. Next year, though, the band will play its final show. However, it won’t be the end of the line for Lynne.
Electric Light Orchestra will wrap up their Over and Out Tour on July 13 at London’s Hyde Park. That will also be the band’s final show. However, the end of ELO won’t mark the end of Lynne’s musical career. The former Traveling Wilbury recently spoke to Mojo about his plans for the future.
Jeff Lynne Looks to the Future
“It will certainly be an emotional show for me,” Jeff Lynne said of the July 13 concert. “It has been great getting to tour the world and to this day, at every show, I am always surprised and delighted by the crowds and the energy they bring. I will miss it,” he added.
He also hinted at what fans can expect from the final shows of the Over and Out Tour. “We will of course be playing all the songs the fans want to hear,” he assured Mojo. “As for surprises,” he added, “these are the final shows so who knows what can happen.”
Then, he dispelled any rumors of his retirement. “I am happy with what I’ve done, and the crowd reactions to the shows and the music has been amazing,” Lynne said. “This is not a farewell to music. I am excited to return to the studio full-time, which is what I love,” he added.
Many know Lynne for his work as a songwriter and musician. However, he also has a long and illustrious career as a record producer. Over the years, he has produced several Electric Light Orchestra albums. Additionally, he served as a producer on albums from the likes of George Harrison, Joe Walsh, Tom Petty, and Randy Newman among others.
Featured Image by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall of Fame
