"My Body Will Tell Me"... 84-Year-Old Paul Anka Hints at Retirement After 70 Years in Music

The living legend of pop music, Paul Anka, known for hits like 'Diana' and 'My Way', is reportedly contemplating retirement after a dazzling 70-year career.

◆ "When my body tells me to stop... that will be the time to retire"

According to reports from the UK Independent and other outlets on the 16th (Korean time), Paul Anka appeared on CBS News' Sunday morning program on the 15th (local time) and shared his honest thoughts on retirement while reflecting on his career. He stated in the interview, "I will know when the time comes for my body to say enough. Right now, it feels like I'm enjoying house's money. I am truly a lucky person," he added.

◆ Passion of a 'working artist' that doesn't stop despite retirement concerns

Despite hinting at the possibility of retirement, Paul Anka's activities remain vigorous. He released his latest album 'Inspirations of Life and Love' worldwide on the 13th (Friday) and is currently on a large-scale North American tour that runs until May 24. Earlier this month, he told People magazine in an interview, "I know what retirement is, but I don't want it. I perform about 75 days a year and enjoy the rest of the time doing things I want to do, like writing. If you can't find joy in life or work, you shouldn't do it," revealing his continued love for his work.

◆ A giant of show business for 70 years, an icon that connects generations

Born in Ottawa, Canada, Paul Anka entered the music scene at the young age of 10 and has maintained a presence on the Billboard charts for 70 years. He wrote the lyrics to Frank Sinatra's timeless classic 'My Way' and created numerous hits including 'Diana' and 'Put Your Head On My Shoulder'. His music has recently gone viral on social media platforms like TikTok through sampling by Doja Cat, making him a familiar icon to Generation Z.

◆ Dedication to family, life as a single dad

Despite his busy schedule, Paul Anka prioritizes his family. He is the head of a large family with six children and nine grandchildren, and he is especially dedicated to raising his 20-year-old son Ethan, whom he gained custody of after a legal battle with his ex-wife in 2017, fulfilling his role as a single dad.

Having walked his own path for 70 years, Paul Anka's hint at 'retirement' is not an end but another process in the completion of a legend, approaching his fans.