Fans have noticed Foreigner founder Mick Jones‘ increasing absence from the band’s shows during the past few years, and he’s now revealed why. In a statement issued Wednesday, Feb. 21, Jones announced that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease “several years ago,” which has curtailed his ability to join Foreigner for concerts. In the statement Jones added that, “I want everyone to know that I am doing alright. However, I’ve always liked to be at my best when performing onstage, and sadly, at present, I find that a bit difficult.”

He added that, “I am still very much involved in the background with Foreigner and remain a presence. Parkinson’s is a daily struggle; the important thing is to persevere and remind myself of the wonderful career I’ve had in music. I thank all the fans who have supported Foreigner throughout the years and continue to attend our concerts — I want you to know I appreciate your support; it always means so very much to me, but especially so at this point in my life.”

The statement comes shortly after Foreigner received its first-ever nomination for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, despite being eligible since 2002. After the first week of fan voting Foreigner ranked third, behind Ozzy Osbourne and Peter Frampton, with 86,916 votes.
The current lineup of Foreigner, led by bassist Jeff Pilson and singer Kelly Hansen, is in the midst of a farewell tour that includes a summer run with Styx and John Waite.

Health has been an issue with Jones since the early 2010s and especially after his 2012 heart surgery. We previously asked him about the prospect of Foreigner going on without him at some point: 

“I don’t know. That’s a tough one. I mean, the thought of my music carrying on in that way is, has some appeal to me. But, y’know, I don’t think you’re gonna see us or see the band as part of a nostalgia kind of thing. That wouldn’t make me feel so great.” OUT CUE : 32

Jones formed Foreigner during 1976 in New York, after the dissolution of the Leslie West Band that he was in. Since its self-titled debut Foreigner has released nine albums and sold more than 80 million records worldwide. Its enduring hits include “Feels Like the First Time,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Urgent,” “Juke Box Hero” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.”