ENGLEWOOD, NJ – When Johnny Mathis announced his final concert as part of his “The Voice of Romance” farewell tour, fans knew it would be special. But no one could have predicted the sheer magnitude of love and star power that would fill the Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) on Sunday, May 18, 2025.
In one of the most emotional and iconic send-offs in New Jersey music history, bergenPAC became the epicenter of entertainment royalty. From chart-topping vocalists and legendary producers to TV personalities and Grammy winners, the guest list read like a Hall of Fame roll call. If ever there was a moment that proved Johnny Mathis’ immeasurable influence on American music and culture, this was it.
On the evening of Sunday, May 18, 2025, the lights inside the Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) glowed a little brighter, the applause rang a little louder, and the air carried a touch more nostalgia than usual. That’s because the stars aligned—both on stage and in the crowd—for the final performance of none other than Johnny Mathis, the legendary crooner known as “The Voice of Romance.”
With a career that has spanned over 65 years, Mathis took his final bow on the same stage that has welcomed icons, dreamers, and legends before him. This wasn’t just a concert—it was a farewell love letter to generations of fans, to timeless music, and to a voice that helped define American romance for decades.
A Night to Remember: When Legends Show Up for a Legend
From the moment the lights dimmed and the first notes filled the room, you could feel it—this wasn’t just any show. It was a celebration. The audience, filled with fans, friends, and fellow performers, rose to their feet to honor a man whose smooth, unmistakable voice has graced radio waves, wedding songs, and movie soundtracks for more than half a century.
Celebrities, musicians, and longtime collaborators filled the seats to pay their respects. They weren’t just there for the music—they were there for Johnny. And as he performed his greatest hits—“Chances Are,” “Misty,” “Wonderful! Wonderful!”—there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
Every note was delivered with the grace and elegance that has defined Mathis’ career. Time may have passed, but his voice? Still pure. Still smooth. Still capable of stopping you in your tracks.
A Night When Legends Came to Honor a Legend
The moment Mathis stepped on stage, the crowd erupted—not just with applause, but with reverence. For over six decades, his smooth tenor voice and timeless ballads have soundtracked generations of love stories, special moments, and unforgettable memories.
And the stars? They came out in full force to witness his final bow.
Among the powerhouse attendees were:
- Regina Belle
- Dee Dee Bridgewater
- Ray Chew
- Kelly Ripa & Mark Consuelos
- Clive Davis
- Michael Eric Dyson
- Whoopi Goldberg
- Harvey Mason Jr.
- Chaka Khan
- Gayle King
- Bubba Knight
- Patti LaBelle
- Norm Lewis
- Darlene Love
- Barry Manilow
- David Nathan
- Billy Porter
- Lionel Richie
- Nile Rodgers
Each of them—icons in their own right—came not to perform, but to pay tribute. Some sat quietly, mouthing the words to classic hits like “Misty” and “Chances Are.” Others wiped away tears as Mathis delivered a heartfelt performance, proving once more why his voice has endured across generations and genres.
bergenPAC: A Stage for Greatness
Located in the heart of Englewood, New Jersey, bergenPAC has long been a cultural gem, offering world-class performances in an intimate setting. Hosting Mathis’ farewell was a fitting tribute—not just to the artist, but to the venue’s reputation for creating unforgettable moments in live music.
And this concert? Unforgettable doesn’t begin to cover it. For those lucky enough to be in the audience, it was more than a concert—it was history.
Looking for more iconic shows and musical legends in New Jersey? Don’t miss our curated events, interviews, and venue spotlights in our Explore New Jersey Music section.
More Than Music—A Legacy
Johnny Mathis’ final concert wasn’t just a goodbye—it was a full-circle moment. His music has transcended generations, bringing people together across ages, cultures, and backgrounds. And on this night, in this venue, that magic was alive and well.
As he closed the show, the emotion in the room was undeniable. The standing ovation seemed to go on forever, a wave of gratitude and admiration that echoed off the walls of bergenPAC and straight into the hearts of everyone there.
His legacy? Cemented. His voice? Immortal. His impact? Endless.
A Farewell, But Never Forgotten
It’s rare to witness the end of an era in real time, but that’s exactly what happened at bergenPAC on May 18th. Johnny Mathis didn’t just sing—he told stories, stirred memories, and reminded us why music matters. His final performance in New Jersey wasn’t just a milestone for his fans—it was a moment for music lovers everywhere.
So here’s to Johnny Mathis—thank you for the music, the memories, and the romance. You may have taken your final bow, but your songs will forever play on in the soundtrack of our lives.