HISTORIC REVEAL – RHONDA VINCENT ANNOUNCES HER FINAL TOUR “ONE LAST RIDE” WITH GENE WATSON IN 2026, ALONGSIDE A STAR-STUDDED NEW ALBUM DESTINATIONS AND FUN PLACES FEATURING DOLLY PARTON, TRISHA YEARWOOD, AND ALISON KRAUSS
It is a moment fans never thought they would see, but it has finally arrived: Rhonda Vincent, the Grammy-winning “Queen of Bluegrass,” has announced that she will embark on her final tour in 2026, a farewell journey fittingly titled “One Last Ride.” Adding to the historic nature of the announcement, Vincent confirmed she will be joined by her longtime collaborator and dear friend, classic country legend Gene Watson. Together, the two icons will deliver what promises to be one of the most emotional tours in recent country and bluegrass history.
But that is not all. In a stunning reveal, Vincent also announced the release of a brand-new collaborative project, an album titled Destinations and Fun Places, featuring some of the biggest names in country music: Dolly Parton, Trisha Yearwood, and Alison Krauss. The double news of a farewell tour and an all-star album has sent shockwaves across the music world, uniting fans in both celebration and bittersweet reflection.
Vincent, who has been at the heart of bluegrass and country music for over four decades, explained her decision with candor and gratitude. “I’ve been blessed beyond measure,” she said. “From the time I was a little girl singing with my family in Missouri, to stages all over the world, this journey has been extraordinary. But the time feels right to take one last ride, to celebrate the music, the memories, and the friendships that have meant everything to me.”
The “One Last Ride” Tour will begin in early 2026, with dates spanning across the United States, Canada, and Europe, culminating in a grand finale at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. For many fans, the sight of Vincent and Watson sharing the stage for the last time will be both joyous and heartbreaking. The two have built a reputation for their breathtaking duets — from their rendition of “Together Again” to “Cryin’ Time” — their harmonies embodying the very soul of traditional country music.
Gene Watson expressed his own emotions about the tour, calling it a privilege to stand beside Vincent as she says goodbye to the road. “Rhonda is not only one of the greatest voices I’ve ever known, she’s one of the finest people,” he said. “This tour will be about honoring her legacy, but also celebrating what we’ve shared together — the love of real country and bluegrass music.”
Meanwhile, the announcement of Destinations and Fun Places has only heightened excitement. The album will pair Vincent with a dream lineup of collaborators, including Dolly Parton, Trisha Yearwood, and Alison Krauss. Each artist will bring her own unique style to the project, blending harmonies and stories in ways that promise to make the record an instant classic. According to Vincent, the album is meant to serve as a musical journey — a reflection on the places and people that shaped her life and career. “Every track is like a postcard,” she explained. “It’s a celebration of where I’ve been and the people who’ve walked this path with me.”
The dual announcement has left fans reeling. Social media lit up within minutes, with one longtime admirer writing: “We knew this day would come, but it still feels surreal. Rhonda Vincent has given us a lifetime of music, and now she’s giving us one last gift.” Another commented: “The idea of hearing Rhonda, Dolly, Trisha, and Alison on the same album is beyond our wildest dreams.”
As the music world prepares for 2026, one thing is certain: Rhonda Vincent’s “One Last Ride” and Destinations and Fun Places will not just mark the end of a legendary career, but will also stand as a celebration of her enduring impact on country and bluegrass music.
Or, as Vincent herself put it with humility and grace: “This is not a goodbye to the music. The songs will always live on. This is simply a thank you to everyone who has been part of my ride.”