Reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year George Strait is making his way across the country bidding a fond farewell to fans on his Cowboy Rides Away Tour. While it’s emotional for the Country Music Hall of Famer, it’s very emotional for his fans, one of whom is Toby Keith.

“He’s been a great one and he deserves to do whatever he wants to do,” says Toby. “I’ve always been a big fan, and most people, if you listen to country music, you’ve had a lot of great George Strait songs in your life. But I hope he keeps recording, because it sure would be empty without him.”

Toby — don’t worry! George renewed his deal with MCA Records last fall to make several more albums.

George, who is up for the ACM Entertainer of the Year award on Sunday (April 6th), will wrap his Cowboy Rides Away Tour June 7th at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas (Dallas). His special guests include Eric Church, Alan Jackson, Vince Gill, Jason Aldean, Asleep at the Wheel, Kenny Chesney, Faith Hill, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride and Lee Ann Womack.

George is currently making his way up the country charts with his latest single, “I Got A Car.”

Toby Keith (George Strait retiring from touring) OC: …without him. :18
“If this were the ‘Cowboy Rides Away,’ good deal, but he’s been a great one and he deserves to do whatever he wants to do. I’ve always been a big fan, and most people, if you listen to country music, you’ve had a lot of great George Strait songs in your life. But I hope he keeps recording, because it sure would be empty without him.”