More than two decades ago, country music was considered by many to be in its prime. A new, modern sound that replaced the traditional country music that reigned the charts for decades. But before the controversial -- albeit lucrative -- bro-country era, the genre was full of feel-good story songs, uptempo hits. and sweet love songs. Now, it seems likely that three of the country acts from the 2000s are set for a massive comeback.
Rascal Flatts
Fans mourned in 2020 when Rascal Flatts, the trio, made up of Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney, announced they were embarking on their farewell Life Is A Highway Tour. It would be their final tour as a band. To add to the sorrow, the tour never happened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although for years fans clamored for them to reunite.
Fortunately, their loyal fans' dreams are coming true in 2025, with Rascal Flatts' Life Is A Highway Tour. It kicks off on February 13, with Lauren Alaina serving as the opening act. The tour will also mark a first for Rooney, who celebrated three years of sobriety in September.
"I'm grateful and my heart is so full of love and appreciation today. God is so GOOD!!" Rooney
The Chicks
The Chicks, formerly known as the Dixie Chicks, released their last album, Gaslighter, in 2020. But their lack of new music by no means implies that they haven't been busy. Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire and Emily Strayer headlined their massive The Chicks Tour in 2022 and 2023. And have maintained a somewhat active presence on social media.
Their unintended fall from grace in 2003, when they criticized then-President George W. Bush while performing in London, was more than 20 years ago. There is an entirely new generation of country music fans, ready and eager to hear their flawless harmonies and creative songwriting. Fingers crossed that 2025 is the year.
Big & Rich
Big & Rich, made up of Kenny Alphin (better known as Big Kenny) and John Rich, were already well known in Nashville, thanks to being part of the MuzikMafia, an informal group of singer-songwriters that also included Gretchen Wilson, Cowboy Troy, James Otto and more. But when Big & Rich released their debut album, Horse of a Different Color in 2004, Big & Rich enjoyed a series of hits at radio, including "Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)," "Lost in This Moment" and more.
Big & Rich's last album, Did It for the Party, was released in 2017, although both Rich and Big Kenny have continued to make music on their own. Last year, Big & Rich toured with Kid Rock and Gretchen Wilson, hopefully, a precursor to a year of music in 2025 for the duo.
