Recently, rumors have been whirling about George Jones‘ ‘declining’ health, which has had fans anxious to hear the latest on Possum. An official release from the singer’s camp this week confirms that the legend is “alive and well, and happy to be touring.”

In fact, Jones is scheduled to appear on average six to eight more shows each month this year, continuing into 2013.

“I love the road,” the singer insists. “I love the fans. I am just a singer and love to sing my songs. Until I’m done, I still don’t need no rockin’ chair. Just gimme’ that stage and I’ll have at it.”

Admittedly, Jones’ energy and motivation is refreshing. The singer will celebrate his 81st birthday on September 12, 2012, but has been eager to hit the stage following several in-and-outs in the hospital this year for an upper-respiratory infection. Meanwhile, Jones has also been attempting to sell his 78-acre Franklin, Tenn. home at auction, but hasn’t had much luck finding a winning bidder.

This summer, Jones announced his forthcoming farewell tour, dubbed the Grand Tour, which is set for 2013.

Remaining George Jones 2012 Tour Dates:

9/7 – Biloxi, Miss. | IP Casino
9/8 – Houston, Texas | Arena Theatre
9/21 – Huntington, W.V. | Big Sandy Superstore Arena
9/22 – Myrtle Beach, S.C. | Alabama Theater
9/28 – Manistee, Mich. | Little River Casino
9/29 – Fort Wayne, Ind. | Embassy Theatre
10/4 – Wichita, Kan. | Orpheum Theater
10/5 – Arlington, Texas | Arlington Music Hall
10/12 – Branson, Mo. | The Mansion Theatre
10/13 – Renfro Valley, Ky. | Renfro Valley Ent. Ctr.
10/26 – Wichita Falls, Texas | Kay Yeager Coliseum
10/27 – Midland, Texas | Wagner Noel Perf. Arts Ctr.
11/2 – Mahnomen, Minn. | Shooting Star Casino
11/3 – Deadwood, S.D. | Deadwood Mountain Grand Casino
11/9 – Branson, Mo. | The Mansion Theatre
11/10 – Morton, Minn. | Jackpot Junction Casino
11/16 – Peoria, Ill. | Peoria Civic Center
11/17 – Hiawassee, Ga. | Anderson Music Hall
11/23 – Winnie, Texas | Nutty Jerry’s Winnie Arena
11/24 – Bossier City, La. | Horseshoe Casino
12/1 – Elizabeth, Ind. | Horseshoe Casino
12/15 – Jackson, Tenn. | Carl Perkins Civic Center

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