Tony Christie: ‘I need an autocue now, but show me an artist my age that doesn’t!’
The 83-year-old singer was shocked by his dementia diagnosis but hasn't let it get in the way of doing what he loves
by: Tony Christie
4 Sep 2026
Tony Christie
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Tony Christie has been in showbiz for over 60 years and, despite being diagnosed with dementia in 2023, is still in the spotlight. He broke big in the early ’70’s with singles such as his signature tune, (Is This The Way To) Amarillo. He had a resurgence in 1999 when Walk Like A Panther, his Jarvis Cocker-penned collaboration with All Seeing I reached the Top 10; six years later, he had his first UK number one single when Amarillo was re-released for Comic Relief with a video featuring Peter Kay. The 83-year-old is currently on his Great Farewell tour, but he’s determined to keep on singing as long as he can.
How important for you is the connection you get with a live audience?
It’s one of the things I love most about performing. I come alive when I’m on stage and it’s because of the reaction and connection I get from the audience. My wife, Sue, is always telling people that I’m a different person at home to the man I am on stage. At home I’m the quiet one in my family, but on stage I have more confidence and I adore the attention.
When you first got your diagnosis in 2021, did you worry you wouldn’t be able to continue performing?
The diagnosis came as a real shock to Sue and me. I knew something wasn’t right, but I wasn’t expecting to hear those dreaded words. I think once the shock wore off though, I was quite determined to carry on singing for as long as I could. I try not to think about it too often. Thankfully it doesn’t seem to have impacted my ability to sing and tour so far.
What was it that triggered you getting checked out in the first place?
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It was Sue who suggested I go and get myself checked out, as she was noticing that I was forgetting names. I was aware that I was struggling to complete my daily crossword, which I had always managed to do. I found myself not being able to think of the right word for people, places and items. It was frustrating, but I wasn’t too worried about it at the time – I was approaching 80, so thought it was a natural part of ageing. I’m glad I followed Sue’s advice and would recommend anyone who is noticing a change should go and visit their doctor.
How do you think you would feel back then, if you knew you would still be touring five years later?
I think I would be delighted! I am very lucky that I still have my voice, and that it hasn’t deteriorated. In fact, many people say it’s gotten better with age. I’ve had fantastic feedback to new albums that I have released recently, and I get a great response from audiences when I tour – all of this makes me determined to carry on for as long as I can. I need an autocue now, but you show me an artist my age that doesn’t! I’m very fortunate to be in good physical health, to have my wonderful family around me.
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How important is music for your continued health and happiness?
When I was diagnosed, my wonderful doctor told me that I worked in the best industry for it – she said music will really help me. And it has. Music cheers me up, reminds me of places and people I hadn’t thought of for years. A good song can really lift your spirits. I always say that you never forget music. Somehow the melody, the lyrics and the memories stay with you. I’ve always adored singing and performing so I feel blessed I’ve managed to make a career out of it. Regardless of my dementia diagnosis I wouldn’t change a thing.
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Christie joins forces with specially selected dementia carers to record this year’s Thank You Day single, Thank You for Being a Friend. Image: John Dawson
What is your involvement with Music For Dementia – and why were you keen to speak out?
The charity approached me not long after my diagnosis and I was really eager to support them. I’m now an ambassador and I’m happy to share my story with others so everyone knows how music can help people with dementia. I’ve been stopped by so many people on the street who have thanked me for talking about my diagnosis. I think for many there’s still stigma in saying that you have it, but there shouldn’t be. There’s nearly one million of us in the UK right now so it’s important it gets discussed more so more money is put into treatments and a cure. One more thing, back in 2023 I released a single for Music for Dementia – a cover of Andrew Gold’s wonderful song, Thank You for Being a Friend. I sang alongside Sting and a small group of dementia carers and it felt very special. We had great support from some brilliant musicians including Nile Rodgers, Graham Gouldman and Glenn Tilbrook.
Is there anything you would say to someone living with dementia about how music can help?
First of all, I’d encourage anyone worried about symptoms to go and see your doctor. Then I would say do not be ashamed about it – you have nothing to hide. To make sure you keep living a good life I would say keep doing what you love and stay busy. It’s worked for me. And of course, listen to music. Play music. It’s good for the soul as well as the brain!
