Shaun Cassidy says he left music to build a normal life

Shaun Cassidy has explained why he stepped away from live music for more than 40 years before returning to the stage. The 67-year-old singer told PEOPLE that he stopped touring at age 21 because he wanted a more stable and grounded life.

Cassidy said he loved performing but chose to focus on writing and producing television, a career that included shows such as American Gothic, Blue Bloods and New Amsterdam. He said the work allowed him to have a normal life that he did not experience as a child.

Although he was asked to tour many times over the years, Cassidy said he worried about trying to recreate his early success and feared it could affect his television career.

He eventually returned to performing in 2020 and was surprised by the strong response from fans, who enjoyed both his classic hits and new music. After a successful 57-city North American tour last year, he will return to the road this November for his 2026 UNWRAPPED Holiday Tour across the United States.

Cassidy said performing now feels fresh because he has not spent decades singing the same songs. He added that touring is more rewarding today because he feels he has a stronger connection with his audience, many of whom have grown up alongside him.