Singer-songwriter Bebo Norman has decided to retire from music at year's end after 20 years as a musician.

"For those closest to me, this really has been a decision that was years in the making, but after a lot of prayer and continued conversation, my wife, Roshare, and I made the final call back in December," Norman said. "And honestly, I wasn't sure if I would be done right away or what the exact timetable would be.

"But ultimately, I decided that I really wanted to honor my label and publishing commitments through 2013 and tour this new record (Lights of Distant Cities) for at least a year from release just to make sure I finish well."

In October, Lights of Distant Cities was released by BEC Recordings and distributed by EMI CMG Distribution, now known as Capitol Christian Distribution.

"Everything that I had left in my heart for music, I feel like I squeezed out and emptied into writing and recording this latest project, which I love so dearly," Norman said. "And to have had the chance to write and record such a personal record with my close friend and longtime live collaborator, multi-instrumentalist Gabe Scott, was the perfect way to finish out my recording career."

To celebrate his career's end, Norman, 39, will release his final radio single, "Sing of Your Glory," April 19. He will also be co-headlining a tour throughout the summer and fall with Andrew Peterson and Sara Groves.

In 2010, Norman received a Dove Award for Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year for "The Only Hope" from his self-titled album. His hit songs include "I Will Lift My Eyes," "Great Light of the World" and "Falling Down."

Click here for more information on Bebo Norman's tour.

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