After a break, Rascal Flatts reunite for their 25th anniversary tour, saying, "We are ready."
Country music fans are in for a treat as Rascal Flatts, the iconic country trio, has announced their long-awaited reunion for a 25th-anniversary tour. After a hiatus that left fans uncertain about their future, the band has confirmed that they’re ready to hit the road again, marking a significant milestone in their storied career. The tour, which celebrates their two and a half decades in the industry, promises to be a memorable journey through their greatest hits and fan favorites.
A Milestone Anniversary
Rascal Flatts, consisting of lead vocalist Gary LeVox, bassist Jay DeMarcus, and guitarist Joe Don Rooney, first burst onto the country music scene in 1999. Over the next two decades, the group became one of the most successful country acts of all time, racking up numerous chart-topping singles, awards, and legions of devoted fans. Songs like “Bless the Broken Road,” “What Hurts the Most,” and “Life is a Highway” became anthems for fans across genres, blending country roots with pop influences to create a unique sound.
The decision to reunite and celebrate their 25th anniversary is a special moment not only for the band but for their fans, many of whom have grown up listening to their music. “We couldn’t imagine a better way to celebrate 25 years than to be back on stage with our fans,” LeVox said in the official announcement. “We’re ready to give them the best show of our lives.”
A Bittersweet Hiatus
In January 2020, Rascal Flatts surprised fans by announcing that they would be going on a farewell tour later that year, signaling the end of an era. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, those plans were derailed, and the group quietly slipped into an indefinite hiatus without performing their final tour.
During this time, the members focused on personal projects. Gary LeVox pursued a solo career, releasing Christian music and collaborating with other artists, while Jay DeMarcus focused on his production company, and Joe Don Rooney took time away from the spotlight. Despite their individual successes, fans constantly speculated about whether Rascal Flatts would ever reunite.
Their return for a 25th-anniversary tour signals the end of that uncertainty, as the band is now poised to give their fans the goodbye (or perhaps continuation) that the pandemic cut short. “We never wanted to end things the way they did in 2020,” DeMarcus said. “We owe it to ourselves and to our fans to make sure we go out on a high note.”
A Tour Packed with Hits
The Rascal Flatts 25th-anniversary tour promises to be a nostalgic trip down memory lane. With 17 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Country charts and countless fan favorites to choose from, the setlist will likely span their entire career. Fans can expect to hear signature songs like “Mayberry,” “I’m Movin’ On,” and “Here Comes Goodbye,” as well as hits from their later albums such as “Why Wait” and “Rewind.”
In addition to performing their classics, the band has hinted at the possibility of new music. While they haven’t confirmed a new album, LeVox did mention that they’ve been working on some material during their time apart. “We’ve been in the studio a bit, and there are definitely a few surprises up our sleeves for this tour,” he teased.
The Impact of Rascal Flatts
Rascal Flatts has left an indelible mark on the country music landscape. Since their debut in the late ’90s, the band has sold over 23 million albums, won numerous awards, including several ACMs, CMAs, and American Music Awards, and played sold-out arenas around the world. Their crossover appeal allowed them to reach a diverse audience, blending country music with pop and rock elements in a way that few others had done before.
The band’s longevity is a testament to their ability to evolve with the times while staying true to their roots. Their influence can be seen in the careers of many younger country artists, who have cited Rascal Flatts as an inspiration. “They paved the way for a lot of us,” country star Thomas Rhett once said. “They showed us how you can make country music that appeals to everyone.”
Reconnecting with Fans
The reunion tour is not just about revisiting past hits; it’s about reconnecting with the fans who have supported Rascal Flatts throughout their journey. The band has always been known for their high-energy performances and their ability to create an emotional connection with the audience, and they’re eager to bring that experience back to the stage.
“We’ve missed the fans more than anything,” Rooney said. “There’s nothing like being up there and feeling the energy of the crowd. That’s what we’ve been missing, and that’s what we’re excited to get back to.”
The tour will also offer fans an opportunity to relive memories associated with the band’s music, as Rascal Flatts’ songs have served as the soundtrack to countless weddings, road trips, and personal milestones. For many, seeing the band live again will be a full-circle moment.
Looking to the Future
While the 25th-anniversary tour is being billed as a celebration of Rascal Flatts’ career, it’s unclear whether this will be the final chapter for the band. “We’re taking things one step at a time,” DeMarcus said. “Right now, we’re focused on making this tour the best it can be. Beyond that, we’ll see what happens.”
Whether this reunion marks the end or a new beginning for Rascal Flatts, one thing is certain: the band’s legacy is secure. As they prepare to take the stage once again, fans are ready to celebrate 25 years of unforgettable music and memories with the trio that has defined a generation of country music.
