Midwestern rocker John Mellencamp [ tickets ] embarks this spring on his first headlining tour in three years, and folk icon Donovan [ tickets ] will be along for the ride.

The outing--dubbed the "Words & Music Tour" for Mellencamp's 2004 best-of set--opens March 23 in Savannah, GA. Nearly a month's worth of shows in the South and Midwest are currently confirmed, and more dates are planned, according to a statement on Mellencamp's official website.

The Indiana native will be backed by his full touring band, and plans to perform many of the songs that appear on the two-disc "Words & Music" set.

"Going out and playing now is a great way for me to keep these songs alive," Mellencamp said in a statement. "We’re keeping the ticket prices down to let people know I’m still aligned with the common man."

According to Mellencamp's site, the top ticket price for the March and April dates is $45, and the average ticket price will range from $25 to $35, not including taxes and fees.

Mellencamp will open each show, and later will be joined by Donovan for some collaborative numbers. After a solo set from Donovan--best known for his hits "Sunshine Superman," “Hurdy Gurdy Man" and “Wear Your Love Like Heaven“--Mellencamp will return for a final set.

Mellencamp’s current touring band includes Mike Wanchic (guitar, backing vocals), Miriam Sturm (violin, percussion, backing vocals), Michael Ramos (keyboards, accordion, backing vocals), Andy York (guitar, backing vocals), Pat Peterson (backing vocals, percussion) Dane Clark (drums, percussion) and Jon Gunnell (bass guitar).