80s rock band to reunite for 40th anniversary tour with a new album
In a nostalgic turn of events, the ’80s rock band BoDeans is gearing up for an epic reunion to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their debut. Known for their catchy 1993 hit “Closer to Free,” the band is set to embark on a massive tour featuring over 100 shows.
The exciting news was announced by Ultimate Classic Rock, revealing that BoDeans will kick off their 2026 tour in Prior Lake, Minnesota on January 30, 2026, and wrap up in Des Plaines, Illinois on June 6, 2026. With more than 100 performances on the schedule, fans will have ample opportunities to catch the band in action, including stops in Massachusetts at Blue Ocean Music Hall in Salisbury on May 1, 2026, and The Spire Center for Performing Arts in Plymouth on May 2, 2026.
The brainchild of Kurt Neumann and Sam Llanas, BoDeans emerged from the Wisconsin music scene in the 1980s, blending elements of roots, alternative, and indie rock. Their debut album, “Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams,” produced by the renowned T Bone Burnett, hit the airwaves in 1986, catapulting the band into the spotlight.
Earning a reputation for hits like “Good Things,” “Fadeaway,” and “Still the Night,” BoDeans cemented their legacy with “Closer to Free,” the iconic theme song for the popular ’90s TV series “Party of Five.” Neumann’s songwriting prowess also landed BoDeans’ tracks in Netflix’s “The Ranch” and the beloved television show “The Bear.”
Despite facing challenges along the way, with Llanas departing from the band in 2011, Neumann persevered, keeping the BoDeans spirit alive. Now, after years of speculation, the dynamic duo is preparing to make a triumphant return, marking the occasion with a brand-new album titled “1983.”
Reflecting on his journey, Neumann shared, “After 40 years of driving from town to town to play the many songs I’ve written over the years, I have to say, I’m not so sure anymore.” Expressing a mix of nostalgia and gratitude, he added, “Music was always that beautiful escape for me in my life. And so, I would escape into it every day.”
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “1983” and the unfolding tour, additional concert dates are expected to be added in the near future. Stay tuned for more updates as BoDeans embarks on this exciting new chapter in their illustrious career.