The legendary George Jones, often referred to as the “the greatest living country singer” is getting ready to hang up his guitar.  The 81 year old, who appeared at a sold out JD Legends earlier this month, has announced the end of an era with “The Grand Tour".  George had to cancel several shows earlier this year after a bout with an upper respiratory infection and now says on his website he wants to slow down and enjoy his family, “It is tough to stop doing what I love, but the time has come."   Although tour dates have not yet been confirmed, George will visit approximately 60 cities in 2013.    The legend also plans to record a new studio album for the fans, and Dolly Parton has been writing songs for him.    Read more here.

George Jones’ 2013 the Grand Tour Dates: (Bold = dates closest to the Miami Valley)

8/10 – Boonville, Mo. | Isle of Capri
8/11 – Lula, Miss. | Isle of Capri
8/17 – Savannah, Ga. | Johnny Mercer Theater
8/18 – Durham, N.C. | Durham Perf. Arts Ctr.
8/30 – Woodstock, Va. | Shenandoah County Fair
8/31 – Northampton, Mass. | Calvin Theatre
9/7 – Biloxi, Miss. | IP Casino
9/8 – Houston, Texas | Arena Theatre
9/21 – Huntington, W.V. | Big Sandy Superstore Arena
9/22 – Myrtle Beach, S.C. | Alabama Theater
9/28 – Manistee, Mich. | Little River Casino
9/29 – Fort Wayne, Ind. | Embassy Theatre
10/4 – Wichita, Kan. | Orpheum Theater
10/5 – Arlington, Texas | Arlington Music Hall
10/12 – Branson, Mo. | The Mansion Theatre
10/13 – Renfro Valley, Ky. | Renfro Valley Ent. Ctr.
10/26 – Wichita Falls, Texas | Kay Yeager Coliseum
10/27 – Midland, Texas | Wagner Noel Perf. Arts Ctr.
11/2 – Mahnomen, Minn. | Shooting Star Casino
11/3 – Deadwood, S.D. | Deadwood Mountain Grand Casino
11/9 – Branson, Mo. | The Mansion Theatre
11/10 – Morton, Minn. | Jackpot Junction Casino
11/16 – Peoria, Ill. | Peoria Civic Center
11/17 – Hiawassee, Ga. | Anderson Music Hall
11/23 – Winnie, Texas | Nutty Jerry’s Winnie Arena
11/24 – Bossier City, La. | Horseshoe Casino
12/1 – Elizabeth, Ind. | Horseshoe Casino
12/15 – Jackson, Tenn. | Carl Perkins Civic Center