They recently completed their Aquostic UK tour, featuring a nine-piece orchestra playing classic tracks in an alternative format. And they're gearing up for a full-power Quo trip at the end of the year.

Rossi tells Classic Rock's Johnny Sharp: "I think I've almost finished running. I'm coming up for 66. I've still got that itch to be liked and the urge to play for an audience - but I think I'm over it."

Rossi has discussed the possibility of retiring several times in the past. Quo guitarist Freddie Edwards notes: "He's always like this. Before every show he says: 'No, this is a bad idea. Shall we pull the show?' Then as soon as he gets up on stage he loves it."

Lifelong colleague Parfitt is prepared for the moment to arrive - but hopes it won't happen for at least two more years. He reflects: "Francis always wants to say this tour will be the last. And if he does want to quit, I'll do something else.

"But it would be such a shame to bow out at the 11th hour and 59th minute, before making 50 years of hits, which is just around the corner. To me that would be such an achievement. If we made it, and he wanted to call it a day then, I'd shake his hand, cuddle him and I'd say, 'Thank you. It's been amazing. What a ride!'" Read more - here.

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