NME NEWS 📰: DEF LEPPARD ANNOUNCES 22-TIME GRAMMY WINNING COUNTRY STAR SIGNS LIFETIME DEAL WITH MCA RECORDS + RAINBOW TOUR DATES REVEALED 👇👇👇
In a stunning and unexpected move that has set the music world ablaze, legendary British rock icons Def Leppard have officially announced that a 22-time Grammy-winning country superstar has signed a lifetime deal with MCA Records, marking one of the most extraordinary cross-genre collaborations in recent memory. The announcement came during a surprise media event streamed live from Nashville, where Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliott and guitarist Phil Collen joined executives from MCA to confirm the historic partnership — one that aims to bridge rock’s electrifying edge with country’s heartfelt storytelling.
Sources close to the label revealed that this partnership will not only include new collaborative music projects but also a joint world tour titled the “Rainbow Tour 2026.” The global trek promises to celebrate the unity of two powerhouse genres, bringing fans an unforgettable experience that blends classic anthems like Pour Some Sugar on Me and Hysteria with the raw emotion of modern country chart-toppers.
The tour, set to kick off in June 2026, will begin in Los Angeles, making its way through New York, Toronto, London, Sydney, Tokyo, and more than 40 major cities worldwide. Fans can expect a massive production featuring dazzling pyrotechnics, multi-screen visuals, and an all-star band lineup that includes both Def Leppard members and the newly signed country icon.
Joe Elliott described the project as “a moment that redefines music unity,” adding that the collaboration “proves that rock and country can live together under one rainbow.” Insiders also hinted that the new deal may lead to an album blending Def Leppard’s signature sound with the country star’s storytelling finesse — a record already being dubbed “Electric Roots” by industry insiders.
MCA Records President Lindsay Callahan called it “a milestone moment in our label’s history,” noting that this deal represents “the future of creative collaboration and genre fusion.”
Tickets for the Rainbow Tour 2026 will go on sale this Friday, with exclusive VIP packages offering fans early access, backstage meet-and-greets, and limited-edition memorabilia.
Music critics are already calling this announcement “one of the biggest alliances of the decade.” Whether you’re a die-hard rocker or a devoted country fan, this partnership between Def Leppard and a 22-time Grammy legend promises to be a tour — and a moment — the world will never forget. 🎸🌈