Rascal Flatts: Are They Planning A Long-Awaited Farewell Tour?

Could Rascal Flatts finally be putting that long-awaited farewell tour on the books? Some fans certainly think so, after a couple of eye-catching changes to the trio's social media. It's not exactly clear what’s brewing -- it could be a tour, a full-blown reunion or even just a one-off project -- but it certainly seems likely that the group is working on something.

One big clue is a change to the band's Instagram page itself. Rascal Flatts recently updated their bio on the social media site, changing the text to read "What are we doing these days?" along with a pair of emoji eyes. That’s new because even though all three band mates have been busy with their solo pursuits, they haven't come together as a band since calling it quits in 2020.

Last week, the band also shared a photo of themselves on stage, asking fans to show off their favorite tour memories. "We’re feeling nostalgic," the caption reads. "Share your favorite Rascal Flatts tour memories and tag us so we can see them."

Sure, it could all just be a walk down memory lane -- but the band’s caption also includes those same emoji eyes, hinting that there might be another reason they’re asking fans to dig up footage from concerts past.

Fans certainly seemed to think that Rascal Flatts could be hinting at a new tour on the way. "Rascal Flatts tour in 2025???" one user wrote. "Omg I thought this was an announcement of a reunion tour when I saw the picture," another added. "I've always dreamed of going to one of your concerts!! PLEASE GIVE US ANOTHER TOUR!!!!!" a third fan exclaimed.

Understanding the Breakup: What Happened?

Originally, the band said it was simply just time. After 20 years of making hit country music, members Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus, and Joe Don Rooney were all ready to focus on some of their own individual projects. However, during the year that followed, it became pretty clear that that wasn’t the whole story.

LeVox revealed that he had "never been okay with the way that it ended," and stated that Rooney "quit." Meanwhile, Rooney has since been through DUI charges and a divorce, and in January 2024, he celebrated 28 months of sobriety. These events have undoubtedly impacted the dynamics of the band and their future decisions.

Reasons for a Possible Reunion

When they first announced their retirement, Rascal Flatts planned a massive farewell tour. However, that never wound up happening due to COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns. They even got shut out of their planned CMA Awards performance that year because a band mate had COVID-19, leaving the trio with none of the closure they wanted for the end of their career together.

The band mates have always left the door open for a potential reunion. DeMarcus, in particular, seemed enthusiastic about the idea of returning to the stage together someday. In 2021, he mentioned that the pandemic had given the band a new perspective on retirement, implying that by the time they got around to launching their farewell tour, it might not even be a farewell tour at all.

"Who knows? We may feel compelled enough to go back out and do the music," he said. "I'm just speaking theoretically, but [we might consider doing] 10, 15 shows a year, enjoy our Rascal Flatts music along with the other things we have going on in our lives."

The Future Looks Bright for Rascal Flatts

Rascal Flatts has stated that, at least in terms of rescheduling their canceled farewell tour, it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when. Now might be the perfect time: Rooney is accomplishing more and more time in sobriety, and the band mates have had a while to cool off from the messier elements of their breakup. A Rascal Flatts reunion was even on Taste of Country's list of predictions for 2024.

As fans continue to speculate about the future, it’s clear that the legacy of Rascal Flatts still holds a strong place in the hearts of many. Whether it’s a reunion tour or a special project, the excitement surrounding the band’s potential return is palpable.

As we look ahead, we can only hope that the beloved trio will make a comeback, bringing their timeless music back to the stage for fans to enjoy once more.

Carena Liptak is an Associate Editor and staff writer at Taste of Country. She specializes in breaking country music news, interviews, and lists. In particular, she’s got a soft spot for sad songs — check out her roundup of the 50 Saddest Country Songs of All Time!