Lonestar [ tickets ] singer Richie McDonald plans to split with the group at the end of the year to pursue a solo career, the country outfit has announced.

Remaining members Dean Sams, Michael Britt and Keech Rainwater plan to continue on with a new, yet-to-be-announced vocalist, according to a press release.

"Life is about change," Sams said in a prepared statement. "Lonestar has evolved over the 14 years we have been together. Michael, Keech and myself are excited about the challenges that lie ahead."

Sams went on to say that, as was the case when previous member John Rich left, and when Josh Gracin filled in for an injured McDonald, he's confident that fans will continue to support the group.

"Now, another change is coming for Lonestar and we know the fans will love the music Lonestar will soon be bringing them," he continued. "Lonestar music is for the fans we love and to them we remain, Lonestar."

"We are very proud of our work and success over the last 10+ years and are thankful to our wonderful and supportive fans for always being there for us," Britt added. "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."

McDonald will remain on board for the rest of 2007 as the band works the road behind its latest release, "Mountains," which was the final album of its contract with RCA Records. Dates for the in-progress tour are included below.

"I feel like this band is stronger than ever," Sams said in a statement at the time "Mountains" surfaced last fall. "This album has breathed yet another breath of fresh air into us as we still have so much more left to say."