A musician familiar to Neil Diamond fans in British Columbia is being forced to retire from the music industry due to a health issue.

David Cormanlongtime bandleader and guitarist with Almost Neil’s Lonely Bandagedwill no longer perform songs with the tribute band, or any other music, “absolutely not by choice,” he says.

“I dealt with a condition called Meniere’s disease for about eight years, Corman told fans in an email newsletter from the band Thursday (March 17).

The condition affects the inner ear, causing hearing loss, vertigo and tinnitus, he wrote.

“At this point, it looks like I will be retiring as a musician with immediate effect. At least by taking an extended break.

The disease began in Corman’s left ear and over time took out most of the hearing in that ear.

“I adapted, my hearing was still strong in my right ear so I was able to manage and eventually figured it out. I continued to play gigs, produce and even mix,” wrote Corman.

“The bad news is that over the last year it has moved to my right ear (the good one). It’s now at a point where the music isn’t pleasant and it becomes difficult to discern the height to some extent. Obviously, that’s pretty devastating to me. I’ve only done music my entire adult life. I’m not totally sure what’s to come, but I’m convinced that I will understand it.

Singer Bobby Bruce, who is “Nearly Neil”, says when he heard the news from Dave he cried for a few days.

“It was so unfair,” Bruce added. “However, Dave is the resilient and capable man we know. With the love of his family supporting him, we know he will continue to lead a joyful and fulfilling life away from the stage.

Corman joined the Solitary Band in 2003.

“Dave’s authentic sounds and excellent chops helped elevate The Solitary Band and all of its manifestations (Bobby Bruce Band, Shagadelic Swingers and Canadian-A) to the top ranks of show bands in the country,” Bruce said.

“Dave has wowed our audiences at home and abroad. No matter where we go, The Solitary Band has earned the respect of fellow musicians, promoters, agents and audiences. I know for a fact that the involvement of Dave Corman for nearly 20 years has been instrumental in our success.

“We can’t thank Dave, or the rest of the band, enough for their dedication, hard work and musicianship.”

[email protected]
Like us on Facebook follow us on instagram and follow Tom on Twitter