Frankie Valli Defends Continued Performing Amid Health Concerns and Accusations of Lip-Syncing

Frankie Valli, the iconic frontman of The Four Seasons, has been at the center of a heated debate regarding his continued performances despite his advanced age and apparent health issues. Now 90 years old, Valli has faced widespread concern from fans and criticism from fellow musicians after videos of his recent concerts went viral, showing him appearing frail and disoriented on stage.

The videos sparked accusations of lip-syncing and even elder abuse against his management team. However, Valli has vehemently denied these allegations. In a statement to *People* magazine, he emphasized that nobody forces him to perform against his will and that he loves what he does. “I am blessed to be 90 years old and still be doing what I love to do and as long as I am able, and audiences want to come see me, I am going to be out there performing as I always,” Valli said.

Graham Nash, a legendary musician from Crosby, Stills & Nash, has been one of the most vocal critics of Valli’s current performances. Nash stated, “As a musician, if you’re not singing, you shouldn’t be onstage,” and described Valli’s performances as “lip-syncing badly to a tape.” Nash also used Joni Mitchell as an example of how to adapt to live performances when an artist’s voice changes over time.

Ann Wilson of the rock band Heart also expressed her concerns, saying, “His face is completely still. He looks like he’s not even there. I suppose he’s not,” and suggested that it might be time for Valli to consider retiring from performing.

Despite the criticism, Valli remains committed to his tour, which is scheduled to run through April 2025. He continues to perform hits like ‘Sherry,’ ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,’ and ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’ with the support of his fans and additional vocalists to maintain the signature Four Seasons sound).