A powerful chapter in country music history is set to return to the stage in 2026 as Shooter Jennings and Jessi Colter announce the “Waylon Forever Tour,” a 40-date global run honoring the legacy of Waylon Jennings.
The tour will celebrate the enduring influence of Waylon Jennings, widely regarded as a pioneer of the outlaw country movement. Known for rejecting the polished Nashville sound of the 1970s in favor of creative independence and a grittier edge, Waylon helped redefine what mainstream country music could be.
Now, decades after his passing, his music is set to resonate once again through live performances delivered by those who knew him best.
A Family Tribute on a Global Stage
Shooter Jennings, himself an accomplished musician and producer, has long carried the artistic DNA of his father’s rebellious spirit. Over the years, he has spoken openly about the weight and privilege of preserving Waylon’s legacy.
Joining him on the tour is Jessi Colter, Waylon’s widow and a celebrated artist in her own right. Colter’s contributions to outlaw country and her own string of hits cement her status as more than a collaborator — she is a foundational figure in the genre.
The “Waylon Forever Tour” promises to blend archival classics with fresh interpretations, aiming to recreate the raw emotional energy that defined Waylon’s performances.
Honoring the Outlaw Movement
Waylon Jennings’ influence extends beyond chart success. Alongside artists like Willie Nelson and others, he spearheaded a movement that emphasized artistic control, authenticity, and storytelling grounded in lived experience.
The outlaw era transformed country music’s cultural landscape, challenging industry conventions and opening doors for generations of independent-minded artists.
Shooter has indicated in interviews that the tour is not about imitation, but celebration — bringing the songs to life in a way that honors their origin while allowing them to breathe for new audiences.
What Fans Can Expect
The 40-date world tour is expected to span North America, Europe, and select international markets. While the full setlist has not been released, fans anticipate staples such as “Luckenbach, Texas,” “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” and “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way.”
Live instrumentation is expected to lean into the stripped-down, roots-driven sound that defined the outlaw era. Industry observers believe the emotional highlight may come from the dynamic between Shooter and Colter — a son and mother sharing songs tied to family memory.
A Legacy That Endures
More than two decades after Waylon Jennings’ passing, his music continues to influence contemporary country artists and Americana performers alike. His refusal to conform to industry expectations reshaped the creative autonomy of country musicians.
For Jessi Colter, the tour represents both remembrance and resilience. For Shooter Jennings, it is an opportunity to bridge generations.
In an era of digital streaming and algorithm-driven playlists, the “Waylon Forever Tour” underscores the timeless appeal of live performance and heritage storytelling.
Fans who grew up with Waylon’s records will hear familiar anthems once more. Younger audiences may discover the outlaw spirit for the first time.
Either way, in 2026, the road belongs once again to Waylon Jennings’ legacy — carried forward by family, fueled by history, and amplified on stages around the world.
