An Open Letter Kid Rock Fan Band Announces 2026 Farewell Tour: ‘One Last Ride’ Marks the End of a Rock Legend’s Era – Dates and Cities Revealed
In an emotional and nostalgic announcement that shook the rock community, An Open Letter, the acclaimed Kid Rock fan band known for their electrifying live performances and deep tribute to America’s favorite rebel rocker, has officially revealed plans for their 2026 Farewell Tour, aptly titled “One Last Ride.” The band, who has spent over two decades channeling the spirit, swagger, and unapologetic energy of Kid Rock’s golden years, confirmed that this tour will mark the final chapter in their storied career. For loyal fans across the country, it’s both a celebration and a bittersweet goodbye to a band that has kept the essence of Detroit rock alive.
Formed in 2002 in Nashville, Tennessee, An Open Letter quickly gained fame for their faithful renditions of Kid Rock’s classic anthems — from “Bawitdaba” and “Cowboy” to “Picture” and “All Summer Long.” But what set them apart wasn’t just imitation; it was authenticity. Lead singer Jake “Rider” Williams, often described as the “soul twin” of Kid Rock, built his own reputation as a dynamic frontman with a raw, raspy voice and a fierce love for American rock and southern grit. Over the years, the band toured relentlessly across the United States and parts of Europe, drawing crowds who came not just to hear familiar songs, but to relive the energy of a musical era that defined rebellion, freedom, and truth.
Now, after more than twenty years on the road, the band says it’s time to close the curtain — not because of burnout or creative exhaustion, but because they want to end things “while the fire still burns bright.” In a heartfelt social media post, Williams wrote:
> “We’ve lived, breathed, and bled for this music for over two decades. ‘One Last Ride’ isn’t just a tour — it’s a thank you. To every fan who sang with us, drank with us, and believed in what we stood for: this final tour is for you.”
Tour Details: Dates and Cities Revealed
The One Last Ride Tour kicks off on April 4, 2026, in Detroit, Michigan — the city that inspired both Kid Rock and the band’s founding story. The tour will cover more than 40 cities across North America, including major stops in Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, Los Angeles, and New York City, before wrapping up with a massive hometown farewell concert in Nashville, Tennessee on September 12, 2026.
Confirmed Dates (First Leg):
April 4, 2026 – Detroit, MI (Little Caesars Arena)
April 9, 2026 – Chicago, IL (United Center)
April 13, 2026 – St. Louis, MO (Enterprise Center)
April 19, 2026 – Dallas, TX (American Airlines Center)
April 25, 2026 – Phoenix, AZ (Footprint Center)
May 2, 2026 – Los Angeles, CA (Crypto.com Arena)
May 10, 2026 – Seattle, WA (Climate Pledge Arena)
May 17, 2026 – Denver, CO (Ball Arena)
May 24, 2026 – Kansas City, MO (T-Mobile Center)
June 1, 2026 – Nashville, TN (Bridgestone Arena)
Additional dates for the East Coast and Southern leg — including New York, Florida, and Georgia — are expected to be announced in December 2025.
A Journey Fueled by Passion and Loyalty
Over their career, An Open Letter became more than just a tribute act. They forged their own fanbase, built from small bar shows and county fairs to major festivals like Rocklahoma and Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Their concerts weren’t mere reenactments — they were revival sessions of a sound that bridged rock, country, and hip-hop in a uniquely American way.
The band also paid tribute to Kid Rock’s message of individuality and self-expression. Songs like “Born Free” and “Only God Knows Why” became emotional centerpieces of their shows, reminding audiences why this music mattered in the first place. For fans, An Open Letter became a living extension of the Kid Rock experience — gritty, patriotic, and defiantly fun.
Williams admitted that the decision to end the band wasn’t easy.
> “We could’ve gone on another ten years,” he said during a press conference in Nashville. “But we wanted to finish strong, not fade out. We’ve seen generations of fans grow up with us — kids who came to our shows are now bringing their own kids. That’s the legacy we’ll carry.”
Special Guests and Surprises
To make the farewell unforgettable, the band has promised special guest appearances throughout the tour, including collaborations with former bandmates, regional country rock artists, and even surprise drop-ins from Kid Rock himself — though nothing has been confirmed officially. Each show will also feature a “Fan’s Choice Setlist” segment, allowing concertgoers to vote online for one classic Kid Rock song and one An Open Letter original to be played live.
The End of an Era
The announcement has sparked an outpouring of emotion from fans across social media. Longtime follower Sarah McKnight wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
> “I’ve seen these guys more than a dozen times. They’re the soundtrack of my wild 20s. Can’t believe it’s the end — but what a way to go.”
Indeed, An Open Letter’s farewell marks the closing of a chapter not just for the band, but for an entire generation that grew up on unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll. As music trends shift and nostalgia deepens, One Last Ride feels like a love letter to every fan who ever shouted, “My name is Kid!”
Tickets and Availability
Tickets for the One Last Ride Tour go on sale Friday, November 15, 2025, through Ticketmaster and the band’s official website. VIP packages — including meet-and-greets, signed memorabilia, and exclusive acoustic sessions — will also be available for select cities.
As the countdown begins, An Open Letter invites fans everywhere to join them for one final celebration of grit, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll rebellion. For Williams and his bandmates, the message is simple:
> “We started this journey as fans. We’re ending it as family. Let’s make this last ride one to remember.”
The One Last Ride Tour begins April 2026 — a
farewell to remember, and a final salute to the sound that never dies.
