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When The Oak Ridge Boys announced theirAmerican Made: Farewell Tourin 2023, fans prepared themselves to say goodbye to a group that had defined decades of country and gospel music.
The tour’s conclusion in December 2023 was meant to close a historic chapter. However, the legendary quartet surprised everyone on December 14, 2024, by revealing an additional leg of their farewell tour extending into 2025.
This announcement brought joy and nostalgia to their devoted fans, many of whom had thought they’d seen the group perform live for the last time.
With 20 new dates added and the promise of more to come, the Oak Ridge Boys have shown they’re not quite ready to bid farewell to the road.
Here’s a deep dive into their storied history, the emotional farewell journey, and what these new dates mean for fans and the group alike.
Let’s get started!
A Legacy Spanning Decades
The Oak Ridge Boys, originally formed in the 1940s, began as a gospel group performing in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Over the years, they evolved their sound to include country and pop influences, creating a genre-defying blend that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Their unique harmony and timeless hits, like “Elvira,” “Bobbie Sue,” and “American Made,” have earned them numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, CMA Awards, and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015.
While the group has seen changes in its lineup over the decades, the most enduring and beloved version of the Oak Ridge Boys featured Joe Bonsall, William Lee Golden, Richard Sterban, and Duane Allen.
The Oak Ridge Boys faced a profound loss with the passing of longtime memberJoe Bonsallin 2023. Bonsall was not just a member of the group; he was a cornerstone of their harmonies and a vibrant presence on stage.
His death left an irreplaceable void, making the initial farewell tour an emotionally charged experience for both the group and their fans.
Despite this loss, the remainingmembers—Golden, Sterban, and Allen—have continued to honor Bonsall’s memory in their performances.
Adding a 2025 leg to their farewell tour allows them to celebrate their legacy and pay tribute to Bonsall’s contributions on an even grander scale.
Why Extend the Farewell Tour?
In a press release, William Lee Golden explained the decision to extend the farewell tour:
“We’ve had so much fun touring from city to city and getting to see everyone. The response we received from the new album has been wonderful, and we hope you love it as much as we do. Keep checking our site as new dates will be added soon.”
This statement highlights the group’s genuine appreciation for their fans. For many artists, a farewell tour marks the end of their careers, but for the Oak Ridge Boys, it has become a celebration of their enduring bond with their audience.
The 2025 leg of the tour will kick off with a two-night performance at theGrand Ole Opryin Nashville on January 24 and 25. These shows will undoubtedly be a highlight, as the Opry holds special significance in the history of country music and for the Oak Ridge Boys personally.
The tour will conclude on December 13, 2025, at the Crystal Grand Music Theater in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. The choice of this venue reflects the group’s commitment to connecting with fans in intimate and meaningful settings.
Announced 2025 Tour Dates
January 24–25: Grand Ole Opry, Nashville, TN
February 10: Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, TN
March 15: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison, CO
April 20: Fox Theatre, Atlanta, GA
May 17: Orpheum Theatre, Memphis, TN
June 21: Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles, CA
December 13: Crystal Grand Music Theater, Wisconsin Dells, WI
Golden hinted that additional dates may be announced, so fans should stay tuned.
What’s Next for the Oak Ridge Boys?
Although they are winding down their touring career, the Oak Ridge Boys have made it clear that they are not retiring from music altogether.
They plan to head back to the studio later in 2025 to record a new album. This announcement has sparked excitement among fans who are eager to see how the group will continue to evolve their sound in the studio.
The announcement of the extended farewell tour has elicited an outpouring of support from fans across social media. Many expressed their gratitude for the chance to see the group perform one more time.
Comments like, “Thank you for giving us more memories!” and “This is the best news—can’t wait to see you again!” flooded their official pages.
For longtime fans, the tour extension feels like a gift—an opportunity to relive cherished memories and create new ones before the group retires from the stage.
Check out This Video!
Reflecting on a Remarkable Career
As the Oak Ridge Boys embark on this extended farewell tour, it’s worth reflecting on their contributions tomusicand culture. Their harmonies have defined generations, their songs have become anthems, and their resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges has inspired millions.
The decision to extend the farewell tour underscores their unwavering dedication to their fans and their craft. For many, this tour is more than a series of concerts; it’s a heartfelt goodbye from a group that has been a constant presence in their lives.
Here’s a table that provides an overview of The Oak Ridge Boys’ 2025 Farewell Tour schedule, including key details about the venues and dates:
Date
Venue
Location
Significance
January 24–25, 2025
Grand Ole Opry
Nashville, TN
Kickoff performances at the legendary home of country music.
February 10, 2025
Ryman Auditorium
Nashville, TN
Historic venue often referred to as the “Mother Church of Country Music.”
March 15, 2025
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Morrison, CO
Iconic outdoor venue surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
April 20, 2025
Fox Theatre
Atlanta, GA
Known for its opulent architecture and rich musical history.
May 17, 2025
Orpheum Theatre
Memphis, TN
A historic venue in the heart of a city with deep ties to music.
June 21, 2025
Hollywood Bowl
Los Angeles, CA
World-famous venue for unforgettable live music experiences.
December 13, 2025
Crystal Grand Music Theater
Wisconsin Dells, WI
Final stop on the tour, offering an intimate setting to conclude their journey.
Reflecting on a Remarkable Career
Final Thoughts
The Oak Ridge Boys’ extended farewell tour is a testament to their enduring popularity and the deep connection they share with their fans.
As they prepare to hit the road once more in 2025, the group continues to prove that their music transcends time and that their legacy will endure long after the final curtain falls.
For fans, this is a rare and precious opportunity to celebrate the magic of the Oak Ridge Boys one last time.
For the group, it’s a chance to say thank you—and farewell—with all the love and gratitude they can muster.
Last Updated: January 16, 2025
