Pete Tong, the legendary DJ and a pivotal figure in the dance music scene, has candidly shared his experience with irreversible hearing loss, expressing deep regret over not safeguarding his ears during his decades-long career. Now 65 years old, Tong continues to host on Radio 1, but the toll of countless nights in loud clubs has led to significant hearing impairment, particularly in his right ear, which he first noticed around a decade ago.
A Difficult Transition and Lifestyle Adjustments
In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, Tong described the adjustment to his new reality as a "really difficult transition." He now relies on earplugs during performances and hearing aids to navigate conversations in noisy environments like meetings. Tong emphasized the challenge of finding the right balance with earplugs, stating, "You have to get used to it, and you have to find the right balance with the right earplugs with the right filters to still feel that you're in the room enough."
Regrets and Awareness in the Music Industry
Reflecting on his early days in the 1990s Ibiza scene, where he became an influential presence, Tong admitted that ear protection was never a topic of discussion. He said, "Everything that was done in the past is purely from ignorance and innocence, you know." He expressed surprise that many top DJs still do not wear earplugs, despite the risks, and hopes his story will encourage others to take proactive measures.
Changing Attitudes and Reducing Stigma
Tong noted that his hearing loss has brought about a "change of attitude," and he believes the stigma around wearing hearing devices is fading. "Certainly, in the last few years, it seems that more people wear something in their ears," he observed. While he doesn't feel pressure to hide his condition, he acknowledges it's a common issue that many face silently.
Advocacy with Boots Hearingcare
Teaming up with Boots Hearingcare, Tong is on a mission to raise awareness about the importance of regular hearing tests. He advocates for hearing checks to become as routine as eye tests or dental visits, pointing out that approximately 18 million people in the UK experience hearing loss, deafness, or tinnitus. "If you have got some kind of hearing loss, then the earlier you find out about it, the better," Tong explained, highlighting the gradual nature of most hearing impairments.
Continuing Career and Future Plans
Despite his hearing challenges, Tong shows no signs of slowing down. He is set to embark on his Ibiza Classics tour this summer, running until the end of the year. While he no longer performs six or seven nights a week as in his youth, he remains passionate about his work, saying, "I still really, really enjoy what I do, you know, finding new music and sharing it." He aims to mature gracefully in his career, choosing opportunities that align with his current stage in life.
Through his campaign, Tong hopes to inspire others to prioritize their hearing health, emphasizing that early detection can make a significant difference in managing hearing loss effectively.
