George Strait has been making music and touring for nearly 50 years, but he says the end of his time on stage may be getting close.

The 72-year-old superstar, known as the “King of Country Music,” earned that title for good reason.  George Strait has sold over 120 million records worldwide, toured globally, and still holds the record for the most number-one songs on all music charts by any artist in any genre.

However, even legends eventually feel the need to slow down.

In 2014, Strait made that call himself, announcing that his Cowboy Rides Away tour would be his final full-time tour. Since then, he hasn’t stopped completely, but has only performed in select cities with a lighter schedule.

In fact, it was just last year that Strait performed a sold-out show at Texas A&M University’s Kyle Field, drawing in over 110,000 fans. The performance broke the record for the largest-attended concert in U.S. history.

George Strait Says He May Not Be Touring For Much Longer

Right now, Strait is playing a handful of shows this spring and summer alongside Chris Stapleton, Little Big Town, and Parker McCollum.

During a recent stop in Philadelphia, the “Amarillo by Morning” singer got personal with the crowd. While on stage, he shared that he doesn’t see himself performing for much longer.

“I have maybe five good years to sing my songs for you folks,” Strait told the audience. “But hell, it’s been around 50 now. And I still love it just as much as I ever did. When I walk through those curtains and I see your smiling faces, my feet don’t touch the ground again until I walk back out and get on that bus.”

“I don’t know how many more years I can do this,” he continued. “I figure a few, and “I do want you to know though, when I do walk off this stage and I’m settled in far away from all of this, you won’t be far away. I’ll still hear your screams and cheers in my mind, and I will always remember you.”

Although Strait has acknowledged that his time on stage will come to an end, it’s comforting to know that fans still have a little more time to see him doing what he loves.

And even when he eventually steps away from the spotlight, his music will live on in the hearts of people all over the world.

In a video shared by a concertgoer who captured his speech on stage, the comment section quickly filled with messages of love and appreciation for the country icon.

“My heart will always hold admiration, respect, loyalty, and lots and lots of love for George,” a user wrote.

“The best of country music! Won’t ever be anyone like him!” another fan said.

“George is an inspiration. One day the Cowboy will ride away for the last time, but we will NEVER forget. Nobody ever did it better!” wrote someone else.

Watch George Strait address his future of touring and performing in the video below.

@sat_tx_cowboy George has something to say to his fans…#georgestrait #countrymusic #concert #lincolnfinancialfield #foryoupage ♬ original sound – Steve Parker