Morrissey Retiring? Smiths Singer Says His Health Is Affecting His Career

After decades performing and recording, both with the Smiths and as a solo artist, Morrissey may be retiring.

The outspoken singer canceled his tour last week, citing "medical reasons" as his need to cease performances. Morrissey has struggled with various health problems this year, first canceling shows due to a diagnosis of a bleeding ulcer and Barrett's esophagus. Things took a turn for the worse when he contracted double pneumonia.

Morrissey is now saying that his health problems have made him question the future of his career. When asked by Mexican radio station Reactor 105.7 if he has been encouraged to retire because of his waning health, he said, "I have been cautioned to, but it's difficult for me because it's very ingrained in me."

"It almost became absurd the number of things that happened to me, but everything just attacked me at once," Morrissey added. "The double pneumonia -- everything was really a result of the fact I had lost so much blood, so the immune defenses were very, very low and couldn't cope with anything, so therefore the slightest gust of wind and I would have a terrible cold."

This isn't the first time that Morrissey has spoken about plans to retire. The Smiths alum hinted last June that he may retire in 2014, saying, "I am slightly shocked to have gone as far as I have. This is my 30th year, and I’ve aged a lot recently, which is bit distressing for me, as it must be for everyone. The body changes shape and there’s nothing you can do about it.”