As Sum 41’s final tour inches closer to its conclusion, frontman Deryck Whibley reflects on the band’s nearly three-decade-long legacy and his personal journey. The “Tour of the Setting Sum” will culminate in a highly anticipated farewell show on January 30, 2025, at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, marking the end of an era for the pop-punk icons.
The Final Countdown
Whibley shared how the realization of their farewell is beginning to hit:
“Now there’s only four more weeks left, and this is the final run. So it’s finally hitting me that it’s coming to an end.”
Though bittersweet, Whibley admitted he doesn’t dwell on nostalgia:
“Touring reminds me of wild stories—or even something simple like a great restaurant I’ve been to.”
Sobriety and Growth
Having been sober for nearly 11 years after a near-death experience in 2014, Whibley reflected on how life has changed:
- On Touring Now: “I prefer being sober. The things you enjoy, you actually feel more.”
- On His Wild Years: “There were so many nights we stayed up till six drinking and talking about dumb stuff… I don’t regret it, but I’m glad I don’t do it anymore.”
Farewell Tour Highlights and Challenges
- Health Struggles: The tour faced a hurdle when Sum 41 canceled their Australian dates after Whibley’s battle with pneumonia.
- Billboard Milestones:
- “Landmines” and “Dopamine” both reached No. 1 on Alternative Airplay in 2024.
- This marked the first year since 2001 that the band achieved two top 10 hits.
- Their final album, Heaven :X: Hell, debuted at No. 23 on the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart.
Encore at the Juno Awards
Fans will have one final chance to see Sum 41 at a special performance during the Juno Awards in Vancouver on March 30, 2025.
Sum 41’s farewell is a testament to their lasting impact on pop-punk and alternative rock. As their journey comes to a close, Whibley’s reflections reveal a story of growth, resilience, and appreciation for their fans’ unwavering support.
Source: Billboard
