John Michael Montgomery
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - AUGUST 24: John Michael Montgomery performs during the 2022 Kentucky State Fair at Kentucky Exposition Center on August 24, 2022 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Stephen J. Cohen/Getty Images)

Country Music Legend Will Play Final Show This Friday: “It’s Been a Wonderful Run for Me”

After performing his last show in Lexington, Kentucky, this 1990s country music icon will hang up his guitar after three decades.

The road will come to an end for John Michael Montgomery this Friday. 

Videos by Wide Open Country

The "I Swear" singer will end his touring career this Friday at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. It's the city where Montgomery's journey began 30 years ago. Before signing with Atlantic Records, the Danville, Kentucky, native played in clubs there alongside his brother, Eddie.

"I have been touring for 30 years and I can't think of a better way to close this chapter," Montgomery said on Instagram

John Michael Montgomery Shared His Decision With Fans Last Year

Montgomery garnered plenty of fans outside of country music and has the numbers to back it up. He has sold more than 16 million albums and 15 number-one singles over his long career. They include "Life's A Dance" and "Be My Baby Tonight."

It was in early 2024 when Montgomery shared that he was going to wind down his touring career. 

"It's been a wonderful run for me from the beginning over 30 years ago in 1992 when my first song "Life's a Dance" was released to radio I think either as a 45 vinyl or on a cassette tape," he shared. "CDs had not quite taken over the market yet and the internet was still in its infancy. It amazes me where it is today."

He continued, "I've been fortunate and blessed to be able to do what I love for so many years so please join me on my journey as I say goodbye to the road life. And thanks so much for your support for the last three decades, it's meant so much to me. Take care and see ya out there."

This Final Show Means a Lot to Fans

For country music fans from a certain generation, Montgomery's songs, including "I Swear" and "I Can Love You Like That," have been part of the soundtrack of many significant moments in their lives, from weddings to proms. 

One fan from Los Angeles, who said they were coming to see the show, wrote, "I know I'm going to cry." Another shared that he is "truly the real deal."

Thanks for the memories, John!