Five for Fighting and Edwin McCain Announce Co-Headlining Tour

The two iconic early 2000s artists are teaming up for a 17-date North American tour this summer.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a nostalgic pairing, Five for Fighting, led by John Ondrasik, is joining forces with singer-songwriter Edwin McCain for a co-headlining tour kicking off on June 4th in Paducah, Kentucky. The two artists, who rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits like "Superman (It's Not Easy)" and "I'll Be," will be performing full sets during the 17-date North American run, promising equal parts emotional ballads and sing-along anthems for fans.

Why it matters

The tour brings together two of the most iconic voices of the early 2000s music scene, offering a chance for longtime fans to relive the era's most beloved songs. Ondrasik's "Superman (It's Not Easy)" in particular has taken on new layers of meaning over the years, becoming an anthem for 9/11 and other humanitarian causes, further cementing the enduring cultural impact of the artists' music.

The details

The co-headlining tour will feature both Five for Fighting and Edwin McCain performing full sets, with the potential for on-stage collaborations between the two artists. Ondrasik has previously incorporated a string quartet into his live shows, adding an additional layer of emotional depth, though it's unclear if that sonic texture will be present for this summer's run of dates.

  • The tour kicks off on June 4, 2026 in Paducah, Kentucky.
  • The 17-date North American tour will run through the summer.

The players

Five for Fighting

An American rock band led by singer-songwriter John Ondrasik, known for hits like "Superman (It's Not Easy)" that have become cultural touchstones.

John Ondrasik

The frontman and creative force behind Five for Fighting, known for his emotive songwriting and humanitarian efforts.

Edwin McCain

A singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits like "I'll Be," which has been featured in numerous films and TV shows.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I loved Smallville, and it was a kick to be part of the show. When you release a song, it's like sending your child out into the world, and you never know where they may go. 'Superman' has had many lives and been used for so many causes. I have certainly been blessed to see that little song flourish.”

— John Ondrasik, Frontman of Five for Fighting (The Honey POP)

“The most significant moment of my career was performing 'Superman' at the Concert for New York to recognize the heroes of 9/11 and their families. I never could imagine a similar experience, but almost 25 years later, performing 'Superman' at hostage square in Tel Aviv and releasing a new version in support of the hostages in coordination with hostage families have been deeply humbling. It's amazing how one song could find such a global impact decades apart.”

— John Ondrasik, Frontman of Five for Fighting (The Honey POP)

What’s next

Tickets for the Five for Fighting and Edwin McCain co-headlining tour are on sale now, with the first show scheduled for June 4th in Paducah, Kentucky.

The takeaway

The upcoming tour brings together two of the most beloved artists of the early 2000s, offering fans a chance to relive the nostalgia of that era through their timeless hits. The pairing of Five for Fighting and Edwin McCain promises an emotional and uplifting musical experience that will resonate with longtime fans and new listeners alike.