NEED TO KNOW
-
Paul Anka told Page Six that his retirement is “coming,” but it’s not happening now
-
The “Diana” singer also shared tips for preserving his voice and health
-
The singer-songwriter’s new documentary premiered on Dec. 1 on HBO
With nearly 70 years in the music business, Paul Anka isn’t ready to stop doing what he loves most.
In an interview with the New York Post’s Page Six published on Saturday, Nov. 29, the Canadian-born singer-songwriter said he knows his “day is coming” for retirement.
“[To] all my buddies who are not singing well anymore. I say, ‘Keep your dignity and stop shortchanging the consumer and ride out a hero and a winner,'” the “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” singer, 84, said.
Anka, however, learned to preserve his voice over the years by avoiding becoming a “drinker” and “smoker.”
“I made up my mind that if I were going to continue to try and create… I gotta be in good health… and it’s paid off,” he said.
In addition to refraining from drinking and smoking, Anka shared a few hacks for his good health, including drinking olive oil.
“I drink lemon juice at a certain time… I fast once a week. I exercise, [I do] what I have to do,” he said. “That’s it. It’s pretty simple. It’s nothing new. It’s just that you have to respect the vessel and just do it.”
Anka first found success in the 1950s and is best known for his hit songs “Diana,” “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” “You Are My Destiny,” “Lonely Boy” and “(You’re) Having My Baby.”
On Dec. 1, the singer’s new documentary, Paul Anka: His Way, premiered on HBO and became available to stream on HBO Max.
Jeremychanphotography/Getty
Paul Anka in Toronta, Canada in September 2024
“From teen idol to chart-topping songwriter, Paul Anka has spent seven decades as one of the most prolific musicians in the world and he’s still going,” the synopsis reads. “Part road movie and part living biography, PAUL ANKA: HIS WAY traces the iconic Canadian’s journey through stardom and constant reinvention in an ever-changing industry.”
The documentary, directed by John Maggio, features archival performances of his songs by music legends such as Buddy Holly, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone and more.
In February, Anka will release his newest album, Inspirations of Life and Love. So far, he’s released singles “Anytime” and “Let Me Try Again.”
Read the original article on People