Rod Argent, the founder of classic rock legends The Zombies who also went on to form Argent in 1969, has announced his retirement from touring after he recently suffered a stroke. The Zombies have subsequently canceled their upcoming US tour as a result of the announcement. The Zombies’ management company shared the news in an official statement: “Rod had recently returned home from a triumphant Zombies tour of the UK, and spent a weekend in London with his beloved wife Cathy, celebrating his 79th birthday and their 52nd wedding anniversary, before the stroke occurred. He was hospitalised overnight and released the next day. Doctors have advised that Rod will need several months of rest and recuperation. Rod has asked us to convey that he has made the very difficult decision to immediately retire from touring in order to protect his health.” (Louder Sound)