Paul Anka, 84, says he has no plans to retire from music career

Paul Anka says performing and writing keep him from retiring at 84

Paul Anka has said he has no intention of retiring, despite a career in show business spanning almost seven decades.

Speaking to People in February 2026, the 84-year-old singer-songwriter explained why he plans to continue performing and writing.

“I know what retirement is. I don't want to retire. Let’s say I do 75 days a year. I got the rest of the year to do what the hell I want. I get to write. I got my things. This is so much fun. If you can’t have fun in life or in a job that you’re doing, don’t do it,” he said.

Anka added that maintaining longevity has required adapting over time. “[B]eing a writer saved me. You’re always trying to change with the times,” he said. Reflecting on his 2005 covers album Rock Swings, he noted that some believed it would damage his reputation.

“Everybody kept saying I’m crazy to do it. Everyone thought I would ruin my reputation. And I said, ‘I’ve been swinging for 50 years. You want me to swing again?’ You got to keep on keeping on in life.”

The Canadian-born performer is set to tour in March 2026 and said he continues to value the experience of live shows. “The moment you’re on there… you’re doing something unlike most things. To see the energy that comes back from all those people… every night is just better than the other. Then I go home, I sit and watch my hockey game. I’ll read. It’s great,” he said.

During a December 2025 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Anka also reflected on writing Frank Sinatra’s 1969 hit My Way, recalling Sinatra’s reaction: “Kid, listen to this.”