Lonestar lead vocalist Richie McDonald will be leaving the band at the end of 2007 to pursue a solo career. The other three members -- Michael Britt, Keech Rainwater and Dean Sams -- plan to continue the band with a new lead vocalist. Lonestar and BNA Records recently parted company after selling 11 million albums together. John Rich, who sought a solo career before finding success in Big & Rich, left Lonestar in 1998.

"I ... am reminded about the time Richie was out due to a back injury and Josh Gracin filled in," keyboardist Dean Sams said. "I realized ... it is the music of Lonestar the fans love. They remain." Guitarist Michael Britt noted, "Dean, Keech and I feel like we still have a lot of great Lonestar music to make, and we are excited about this new opportunity to continue playing for our fans. Richie will be missed and we wish him luck in his future endeavors." According to Lonestar's official Web site, the band currently has concerts booked through July.