Lonestar's Richie McDonald leaves, band leaves label
"The band has the opportunity to pursue other endeavors," a press released from the group said Monday.
Dean Sams, Michael Britt and Keech Rainwater are "eager" to announce their new lead singer and record label as they will continue to tour and produce music as Lonestar, the statement said.
"Life is about change. Lonestar has evolved over the 14 years we have been together. Michael, Keech and myself are excited about the challenges that lie ahead," said Sams. "As the founding member of Lonestar, one thing that has never changed is the fans that love great Lonestar, music, the fans remain. It seems like just yesterday John Rich left Lonestar to pursue an alternate career path and in that time of change, Lonestar remained and went on to sell over 10 million records, the fans remain. I then am reminded about the time Richie was out due to a back injury, and Josh Gracin filled in, and I realized again it is the music of Lonestar the fans love, they remain. Now, another change is coming for Lonestar, and we know the fans will love the music Lonestar will soon be bringing them. Lonestar music is for the fans we love and to them we remain, Lonestar."
The group will launch a full national tour in support of their latest release, "Mountains." "All members of the band are committed to fulfilling their obligations throughout the end of the year and are thrilled to do so," the statement said.
Britt said, "We are very proud of our work and success over the last 10-plus years and are thankful to our wonderful and supportive fans for always being there for us. Dean, Keech and I feel like we still have a lot of great Lonestar music to make and we are excited about this new opportunity to continue playing for our fans. Richie will be missed, and we wish him luck in his future endeavors."
Lonestar has enjoyed over a decade of success with hits such as "Amazed," "My Front Porch Looking In" (the most-played country song of 2003) and "I'm Already There."
More news for Lonestar
- 08/18/23: The Frontmen drop two songs
- 03/07/21: Lonestar names Womack as lead singer
- 02/06/14: Lonestar launches acoustic tour
- 10/26/11: Lonestar reunites with McDonald
- 01/21/10: Lonestar returns to action
- 02/28/08: Lonestar releases new single
- 12/17/07: Lonestar broadcasts holiday songs to troops
- 12/07/06: For Lonestar, the show must go on - with Gracin
CD reviews for Lonestar
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