The Shires are taking a break after 13 years together. British country duo Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes shared the news in an Instagram video this week, saying their upcoming UK tour will be their last for the foreseeable future.
Why now? Rhodes said the decision was hers and was "not made lightly." She wants to be home with her family, and the duo's statement says she will focus on her two young daughters. Earle said he fully supports her and understands the pull of family life as a parent himself.
Is it a breakup? No. Earle said they haven't fallen out and are still close friends, adding that they might make music together again one day. He also plans to keep making music.
Can fans still see them live? Yes. The duo is going ahead with their UK tour throughout November, and Rhodes promised a show full of glittery outfits and a celebration of their journey.
A look back: The Shires formed in 2013. Their debut album, Brave, became the first British country album to reach the UK top 10. They have since released six albums, the latest being Bonfire in July 2026.
In their goodbye message, Earle told fans, "We feel so blessed." Rhodes thanked them for the support, saying the duo couldn't have done any of it without them.
