Country music fans face significant changes in 2026 as three prominent acts, including beloved singers, have announced their retirements from touring. While these farewells mark the end of live performances for now, there remains hope for new music in the future. This shift may make it harder for fans to see these icons in concert, but their contributions to the genre will undoubtedly continue.
Alan Jackson concluded his touring career on June 24, 2025, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. The 67-year-old musician cited his desire to spend more time with family as a primary reason for stepping back. “I’ve been touring for over 30 years… and I just want to think about maybe calling it quits before I’m unable to do the job like I want to,” Jackson explained during his farewell tour announcement. Alongside family considerations, Jackson has been managing Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a rare genetic condition affecting mobility. He expressed gratitude for his successful career, which has amassed an estimated fortune of $150 million, ranking him among the top ten richest active country music stars in 2024, according to CelebrityNetWorth.com.
Another notable retirement came from John Michael Montgomery, who performed his final concert on December 9, 2025, at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. The 60-year-old singer revealed that the decision to retire began during the COVID-19 pandemic when he recognized the toll of road travel on his body. “I didn’t realize how hard traveling on the road was getting to me,” he shared in an interview with Taste of Country. A subsequent bus accident that resulted in four broken ribs further solidified his choice to leave touring behind. Montgomery plans to cherish time with family rather than spending his golden years on the road.
The popular country band Town Mountain, known for their energetic performances, also announced their retirement from touring after two decades together. Their final show took place on October 26, 2025, at Ardmore Music Hall in Pennsylvania. The band expressed their gratitude to fans in an emotional statement shared on Instagram, thanking supporters for their years of encouragement and sharing their experiences. “This was not an easy decision, but it is one we made together with a lot of respect, reflection, and love for what we’ve built,” they stated. As they step away from the road, the band remains hopeful for future projects, stating, “Who knows what the future holds but thank you for being part of the ride.”
While the retirements of Jackson, Montgomery, and Town Mountain may leave a void in the country music landscape, their legacies and potential new music projects promise to keep their spirits alive. Fans can look forward to cherishing memories of their performances while eagerly awaiting any new creative endeavors these artists may embark upon.