The sideman who has served alongside Joe Walsh for 24 years as the Eagles’ touring co-lead guitarist, Steuart Smith, has officially retired from the group, taking his leave midway through the group’s stint at Sphere in Las Vegas.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, Parkinsonism is an umbrella term that refers to several brain conditions — including Parkinson’s disease — that cause slowed movements, rigidity (stiffness) and tremors. Parkinson’s disease makes up about 80% of all Parkinsonism cases.

After being diagnosed with Parkinsonism, Steuart Smith is retiring as lead guitarist for the Eagles. The 72-year-old musician, who has acted as the “Hotel California” band’s co-lead guitarist for almost 25 years alongside Joe Walsh,

"I must now do what's best for all concerned," Smith, who joined the band in 2001, said in a statement shared with PEOPLE

Veteran guitarist Steuart Smith, who's been touring with the Eagles for 24 years, revealed that his recent Parkinsonism diagnosis had a profound impact on his decision to retire

Steuart Smith, the longtime touring guitarist for legendary rock band the Eagles, has retired because of health issues.